Leaders and roll casts

[Sic Puppy]

Got a good deal on a sweet little Reddington 5'6" 4 wt. at Unicoi Friday (thanks, guys!) and test flew it today on the pond. It was really windy and I was having some trouble roll-casting, it felt like the leader was too long. My question is do I need to go with a shorter leader on a shorter rod (I generally use 8-9') or do I just need more practice"?

[Jimmy Harris]

SP,

I would recommend a shorter leader. I normally use a 7 - 7.5 ft. leader on my short rods. Sorry, we didn't discuss that when you were casting.

[Sic Puppy]

You call that casting? Man, you are a salesman. Tried a 7.5' today with much better results, starting to find the rhythm of the rod. I still need practice, but I could probably fool a nonflyfisherman. Thanks again, see you next pay day.