Fly Fishing Rods
Or How to Buy A Fly Rod!
by
Eugene Macri

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© 2011 E. P. Macri Jr.

Fly fishing rods have undergone a great changes in the last few years.  For the most part these changes are a good thing because at this time you can get a damn good fly rod for under $150.00.  I know most fly rod companies and fly shops don't want this to get out but if you took the labels and price tags off the rods very few fly fisherman including the "so called experts" would be able to pick out the $150 rods from the $550 rods.

I have no problem with buying expensive equipment because I have enough of it. However, you can readily equip yourself for most types of fishing from steelheading to tarpon at a peasant's salary these days.  Here are some of my tips and guidelines for purchasing fly rods:

Do not get a rod that is too light because often times it won't balance with the reel and will lead to sloppy casting and arm fatigue.

• Consider 4 piece rods.  Most of them are just as good and with the same action as the two piece models with the added convience of travel.
• Be wary of what the action is on the rod.  Why? Because every company's definition of what is fast or medium fast seems to vary with the rod models.
• For most fly anglers a medium fast action rod will server well for dry flies and underwater creations as well.
• In the spring in higher waters use a stiffer rod and heavier rod.  I've watched fly anglers try to throw weight and larger flies and almost take the ear off because the rod wasn't stronge enough to keep the rig in the air properly.
• Most fly anglers will be more successful with longer rods! They give you more reach and more control over the line and thus you hook more fish. Stay away from rod that are too bright or flashy because they will spook trout especially on spring creeks.

Fly Rod Recommendations for Trout

Here are my best recommendations for trout:

• 8.6 ft rod 3-4 weight; Medium Fast; This rod is great for small flies, fine fishing and spring creek fishing for tricoes etc.
• 8.6 ft rod  4-5 weight Medium Fast. This rod is for all round trout fishing and will handle a variety of flies and conditions.
• 8.6-9 ft rod 6-7 weight Fast Action; This rod is for spring fishing and larger waters. It will handle larger flies with weight. It can also be used for Steelhead and lake fishing.

With these three fly rods fly anglers can cover most of the conditions they are likely to find just about anywhere. And if you get 4 piece rods you'll have a compact group of rods that will fit just about anywhere and travel well. Some anglers prefer even the 9 ft versions to get even more line control.  All of three of these rods can be purchased for under $450.00 total.  Not bad when you consider the pleasure you'll get from these. Most rod manufacturers have decent rods in this price range so do your homework and you'll be fine.