Basic Steps to Choosing the Right Fly Fishing Rod

Are you thinking of learning to fly fish? Sure you are. It’s very popular right now, and more and more manufacturers are producing fly fishing gear. That means you have a lot of choices, which is good. It can also be bad, because the variety of gear available can be overwhelming.

First you have to understand that fly fishing equipment is different from regular fishing. Second, there are different types of gear within fly fishing. To begin to choose, you need to know what type of fish you want to catch. Once you make that choice, it’s time to buy gear. The best place to start is with the fly fishing rod.

Step One: Strength

Fly fishing rods are given a number that corresponds to their strength. Lightweight fishing rods will have a low number. Heavy rods will have a high number. Rods with a low number are sufficient for hunting small fish in a stream. If you want to catch saltwater fish (which are usually large) you’ll need a rod with a high number. You must match the strength of the rod with the size of the fish.

For the most part, fly fishing enthusiasts hunt for small to medium-sized fish, such as crappie, grayling trout and blue gill, though some hunt big game fish, too. If your fish of choice is brook or rainbow trout, a #4 fly fishing rod would be a good choice. If, however, you prefer hunting the big fish, like Muskie or tarpon, you’ll need a heavier rod like a #12. Obviously, for medium-sized fish you’ll need a rod with a number somewhere in the middle.

Step Two: Length

Just as different fish require different strengths of fly fishing rods, different conditions require different lengths. If you’re a beginner to the sport, a slightly longer rod may be a good choice, because it allows for longer casts and better control.

If you aren’t a novice, a longer rod may also be sufficient, but you need to be aware of your surroundings, too. A long rod in a small creek, especially one surrounded by overhanging vegetation, will catch more frustration than fish. In this situation, you’ll need a shorter rod to avoid snagging your rod/line on branches and/or leaves.

Step Three: Personal Style

Never buy a fly fishing rod, or any other kind of rod, without first trying it out. Don’t be afraid to check out several different rods or to ask questions. Your mission is to purchase a rod that works with your fishing style. You need to be sure the rod doesn’t interfere with your casting or reeling movements. If it does, put it back and try another one. A rod that makes fly fishing awkward can only hurt the fishing process. You’ll get tired quicker, may be unable to set the hook, and possibly lose a prize fish.

Step Four: Go Fishing

Get out and fish! That sounds obvious, but the truth is fly fishing requires practice. Once you have the right