what is the fundamental difference--dead drift-swing

[schnip]

help. dead drift is upstream cast drifting like CP guys do with a roe bag if i am correct---isnt a swung fly in the current the same?

 

[Madriverfisher]

Yes but you have to mend the line to get a drag free drift

 

[Madriverfisher]

But a swung fly to don't mend as much that's my understanding anyway

 

[schnip]

so no mend on the swung fly---just drift it as long as it goes then retrieve?in quarters of the river right?

 

[Madriverfisher]

Yup you got it

 

[RobH]

The swing typically begins with a down stream cast between 90 and 45 degrees. An up stream mend will slow the fly down and a down stream mend will speed the fly up. Once the line begins to move the rod tip, you follow it with your type of presentation dictating how fast or slow but the idea is to stay in touch with the fly so you can feel the take.
The dead drift typically begins with an upstream cast to about 45 degrees to allow the fly time to sink prior to reach your target area. Then mend were required but you then follow the progress with the rod tip while keeping slack between the tip and the line on the water so as not cause the fly to swim or to rise up. Dead drifting requires slack line and a constant vigil to watch for takes and react to your indicator what ever it might be.
RH