Another fishing question...

[andrewmoquin]

I have only really gone fly fishing about 3 times and after the first i went out and bought my own rod, a orvis streamline 8.5 foot mid flex 5wt. i am using a white river dc 2 reel. i have questions about casting. i practice in my back yard everynight for about 20 min at casting and was wondering if about 40 feet is a good casting distance? i got this by throwing out a long cast dropping the rod and pacing off 41 steps and my shoe is about 12 inches long and I'd figure drop a foot for any long steps or anything like that. so what do you guys think am i doing good? i have a double taper line and no leader when i practice.
http://www.fintalk.com/ppa/galleries/Shark_Gallery/emb2pg.jpg

[acesover]

Your on the right track, the practice really helped me. Two suggestions tho',
1. Get a weight forward line, you will find it a little easier to cast. I started with a Scientific Angler " Headstart" line. Really helped.
2. Tie on a leader and a fly that you have cut the hook off at the bend. It will help you to cast more like you will when your fishing. It also gives the resistance thru the air when casting that you will experience.
Have fun, that's the most important thing!!