Thread: Tendonitis

I've really stepped up how often I fly fish this year, going out two or three times a week. One thing I am noticing is that I am getting tendonitis in my hand, near the base of my thumb, nearly every time I go out. Anyone have any tips to avoid this?

less wrist more elbow and shoulder on your casts. Keep the wrist stiff and move from your shoulder and elbow.

Originally Posted by Vinman

less wrist more elbow and shoulder on your casts. Keep the wrist stiff and move from your shoulder and elbow.

Kind of funny you mention that, as I was just saying that to my fiance while teaching her how to cast. I guess I'm getting sloppy.

I ain't a doctor and I don't play one on TV, but this was up on Gink and Gasoline a few weeks back - focused on the elbow, but might also work on the wrist:

http://www.ginkandgasoline.com/fly-f...casters-elbow/

Dickey, I'm more inclined to think the problem is with your grip, not your stroke. First off, you may be gripping the rod too hard. Ease up.
Are you putting your thumb on the top of the cork? Is your thumb taking all the leverage? Try bringing your thumb a little off to the side. You can compensate by bringing your index finger closer to the top. Also, it's ok (some say better) to grip the rod more with the heel of your hand than with your fingers.

I agree the problem is in your grip. Sound advice above.

Originally Posted by Underoos

Dickey, I'm more inclined to think the problem is with your grip, not your stroke. First off, you may be gripping the rod too hard. Ease up.
Are you putting your thumb on the top of the cork? Is your thumb taking all the leverage? Try bringing your thumb a little off to the side. You can compensate by bringing your index finger closer to the top. Also, it's ok (some say better) to grip the rod more with the heel of your hand than with your fingers.

I'll try this, thanks!

Use the arm and elbow too.

I have been casting since 1970 and have a bad habit of using only wrist.

Once at Christmas Island a flight was delayed (surprise) and about 10 rods were stuck at the airport for a few hours the day we left. A casting contest got going. I was throwing a 12-weight about 80 feet when finally a pro Sage rep said something like watch how I can get you another 20 feet, use your damm arm not your just your wrist! He tied the butt of the rod to my wrist so I could not bend it then used the throw a baseball analogy and I cast it to the backing. I was young and sleek then...