The Key Grip

In this the second part of our look at common fly casting grips we'll take look at the Key grip, also known as the V grip, it's similar to how many are taught to grip a golf club.

Imagine you are holding a set of keys and about to unlock your front door - that’s pretty much it. Knuckles facing up and out, palm down, heel of the thumb down on the grip. You'll form a nice V between your thumb and forefinger.

Personally I tend towards running my forefinger a little more on top of the grip - use what's comfortable.

This is very much a throwing grip and now that everyone is gorking at you while you pantomime these grips - reach up and pretend you are knocking on that door. Knock knock - nice. Note how strong that wrist positions feels. Try tilting your fist sideways - note how your wrist is pretty much locked from any lateral movement.

The key grip offers very precise movement, is very strong, helps prevent coming back too far on the back cast and locks out much of the wayward lateral wrist movement that leads to poor tracking and hooked back casts.

Loosen up! 

Regardless of what grip you choose to use, keep things relaxed. White knuckles are a sure sign you're squeezing the bejeebers out of the cork - it's just wasted effort.

V Grip Pros

• Helps lock out lateral wrist movement
• Less likely to overextend and drop the rod tip on the back cast (certainly as compared to thumb on top)
• Strong
• Accurate

Cons

• None that come to mind - do let me know if you have any.

It’s my preferred grip and I encourage you to give it a crack.

Get a Grip - Fly Casting Styles - Pt 1 is over here >