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Walter & Group.....
[GH] Rene Hesse answers as a "lefty" instructor. Along with this message, he answers Joe Libeu's questions :
Gordy,
I've been watching for something, anything that would make me change my mind about changing task #20.
The only reason I would kick it out is if it pushed out existing masters. They have done their test at their time.
As with a CI coaching a non-CI, a Master should be able to coach a CI up to that level.
This is a fundamental skill when teaching. I'm a lefty and of course the far majority of my students are not.
If I was not 'forced' to learn it, I would not have.
Now, other than on distance casting, I don't even give it a thought as to what hand they are using when doing hands on.
We are not being asked to do an amazing cast, just nice loops at a reasonable distance. (I'd prefer a little shorter).
1. Do you lefty instructors ever find the need to cast with your right hand when fishing ? No, I prefer others techniques, curves, tilt, delivery on back cast....
2. " " " " " ever demonstrate casting with your "other" (Rt.) hand to students ? One time, on a fixed stage that only allowed for my right arm to be on the viewers side. Then after a few minutes I opened my stance up, switched back to left hand and changed styles to keep the hand in front of my body so they could see it.
I felt awkward speaking and casting right handed at the same time. (don't give me gum and ask me to walk)
3. " " " " " ever find it helpful to do this as you teach ?I'm constantly doing 'hands on' right handed casting.
4. If you answered YES to # 3., let us know how you do so. I either use one or two hands to control the right handed casters. Standing behind and off to the side guide them through the part of the cast we need to work on. They are along for the ride, then they guide me,,,back and forth.
5. Do any of you lefties find that being able to make basic casts with your right hand has made you a better fly casting instructor ? In addition to the ability to work with the majority of my students, it reminds me to be gentile and patient with a beginner. It is something all instructors should apply them selves to.
Another arrow in the quiver.
6. " If we can get non FFF instructors to learn to cast with the non dominate hand in order to better teach someone, then why is so difficult for a perceived master to learn in order to become a better teacher?" Agreed.
I'm good with what ever is decided, it is a great journey,
Regards,
Rene
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[GH] From David Diaz :
Gordy, I asked Dan Lagace to comment on the ease or difficulty of acquiring rudimentary "otherhanded" casting at the level we require for MCI proficiency. Dan has more experience teaching "otherhanded" casting than the rest of us put together.
Specifically, I posed two questions: Out of 100 competent casters, motivated enough to pursue certification, 1.) how many would encounter difficulty learning to pick-up and laydown a 40-ft cast with a 3-ft loop diameter and roll cast without exceeding head height; and 2.) how long would be required for acquisition of "otherhanded" casting to the proficiency level described.
Here are his answers in a word or two: 1.) none; 2.) 10 minutes.
Dan's original motive for exploring "otherhanded" casting was insight into the problems a beginner might have when learning. So, he simulated the naive state by using his other hand to cast. He found the experience enlightening and directive as a casting teacher.
And his response squares precisely with my own experience. Moreover, his and mine are comparable to that found among club casting instructors at the Long Beach club as described by Joe Libeu. As I read Joe's description, requiring instructors to acquire rudimentary casting with their other hand has paid off, had measurable positive results, and none of them found it necessary to devote much time to the acquisition.
My conclusion about Task 20 is that it is reasonable, moderately easy to acquire, a conduit to insight, and sometimes a learning aid for students. It's not an imposition and doesn't result in a talent drain. Its qualities are not an argument against dexter-handed instructors teaching sinister-handed students to use other methods to succeed. The essence of teaching is being resourceful not doctrinaire.
I suggest that those MCI aspirants who cannot learn to cast a little with their other hand by themselves should see professional assistance. Nobody is entitled to FFF Certification.
David Diaz
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[GH] David,
Yes. To learn to make the very basic moves required for Task 20 requires a short learning curve for most casters.
It is when a "dyed in the wool" right or left handed caster tries to become a competent caster sufficiently that he can make most of the required casts and be reasonably comfortable actually fishing with his opposite hand that it takes a very long time ...... and many wouldn't ever reach that goal.
Gordy
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