Belgian Cast

Put quite simply this cast is a side cast in the back cast, followed by an overhead cast in the forward. It is very useful for (a) acquiring distance very quickly (b) keeping flies apart on a multi-fly leader and (c) casting with the wind.

The disadvantage of this cast is that it throws a half twist in the line every cast. Half twists add up! So it's best to use this cast sparingly, otherwise you will have to get into the habit of removing the reel from the rod, every 30 casts, or so, in order to spin the twists out.

One fishing partner of mine, who uses this cast for most of his fishing, has the infuriating habit of casting his line out, unspinning the twists, refitting the reel (all very casually you understand) and bringing in the slack only to discover he has hooked a fish, which he promptly lands with deft skill.

One excellent reason for performing this cast is that (with slightly too much power), once the loop has straightened out on the backcast, it will kick around to the side. With an overhead backcast the loop will flip over downwards.

A side cast is excellent for casting narrow loops which makes this cast perfect for casting with a following wind. A tight low backcast followed by an open forward loop. Remember to haul as you stop on the backcast, and through the stroke on the forward cast.

Since the backcast can be presented very low to the water, this is an excellent cast for making a high forward cast.