1.Start with a highly visible indicator that will support the amount of weight required to effectively fish the selected water. Any connection piece (swivel, o-ring, mono…) will work with this system.

2.It is important to fish the proper size indicator- Large yarn indicators will float high in the water and carry heavy loads. Downsize when you have low, clear water and are not using heavy split shot.

3.The diagram illustrates a 90 degree angle between the leader and the butt section. This is crucial to maintaining a “dead” drift and detecting any strikes.

4.For most situations I use 25-30lb Maxima butt section ( 10-18”- doesn’t matter) to the end eye of the swivel. I will then tie 6-9’ of 8lb Maxima off the eye that is shared with the indicator. From there I will attached various tippet sizes depending on the conditions.

5.Fishing indicators is a challenge; however, it will usually outfish other tactics!

If indicators are not for you, join the many. They are a challenge to cast, it is not “pretty”, and it requires more “stuff”. With that said, I personally use them because I am confident in how they enable me to present my flies.

Advanced Technique: Incorporate Spey casts with a single hand and an indicator. With the use of a Snap-T or Double-Spey you can keep your flies in the water longer.