Fly Fishing Lesson on Fly Fishing Rods
So you have decided to begin fly fishing. Something all fly fishing beginners must do is read a fly fishing lesson on fly fishing rods.
The few main characteristic of a rod are length, line weight, and pieces. You can find this information printed on the rod typically near the grip.
When it comes to length, most rods range from 7 to 10 feet long. There are rods outside of this range but they typically are for a specialized purpose and not for a beginner. But as you grow in knowledge and experience then by all means give them ago. The longer rods give more control over the line, it is easier to lift the line out of the water and reposition it. However longer rods do have a few draw backs. The longer they are, the heavier they typically become, and also you are more likely to catch it on shrubs and overhanging branches.
When it comes to line weight, fly lines come in weights from 0 to 15, and the fly rods are created to match the line. A 6 weight rod is designed for a 6 weight line. You may hear of fly fisherman using a heavier or lighter line then his rod is rated but as a beginner it’s important that these match.
There are a few reasons why the line weight is important. A larger weight rod is typically stiffer and a more effective tool for landing large fish, also since the line is heavier it can cast our larger flies, further and it does help when combating wind. This also comes with a cost, as the line and rod is heavier then lighter rated variants, it’s more of a physical challenge to be casting it all day long. Not to mention is makes it more difficult for a stealthy cast as its lands heavier on the water and can spook fish in calm conditions.
For a beginner the best all round weight is a 5 weight. It’s good in still waters and medium to large rivers. It has the power to cast your fly on a windy river but still enough finesse for the smaller flies and spooky trout. But the best resource when making your decision is your local fly fishing shop, they will know the conditions and the waters in your surrounding areas. In fact I used to go into the local tackle shop when I was starting out and buy something cheap, just to pick the brains of the local experts.
Rod Pieces. 15 years ago most rods came in two pieces, there were 4 piece rods for their compact size but were not preferred due to all the joins created dead spots. Over the years the material and construction has improved that most experts agree that the 4 piece models cast just as well as their 2 piece predecessors. And with the added versatility of being compact some manufactures no longer produce 2 piece rods.
Now as a beginner I wouldn’t go and break the bank on a $700 rod, there are plenty of good entry level rods for around $150-$250. They won’t be as light as a premium rod or have the workmanship with exotic hardwood inserts and titanium guides but they will be great to learn on and will land fish. When you really get the feel for things and have found your perfect rod weight and length, then invest in a premium rod and keep your beginner rod as a spare.
One of the best ways to select a rod that feels right for you is to find a local fly fishing school, you will get to try different rods while learning to cast. Otherwise most local tackle stores will let you have a few swings.
