Fly Fishing Rods - A Brief Overview

For those interested in taking up the sport of fly fishing, selecting gear can be overwhelming and daunting. With all the different types of fly rods available, in a wide range of prices, what's the novice to do?

Today, there is huge interest in fly fishing and it's one of the fastest growing segments in the sport fishing industry. Both men and women as well as children are taking up the sport as it offers both a relaxing way to spend time on the water as well as the potential for excitement when a fish strikes a fly and the fight is on.

But for new fly anglers who want to get their own fly rod, walking into a general store and looking at what is available might be confusing. First, there are all the different weight ratings on fly rods that are not in any way similar to other fishing rods used in spinning or spin casting styles. Then there are rods made for particular styles of fly fishing like spey casting, single handed casting and double-handed. Some come with fighting grips, while other fly rods seem much shorter and lighter.

Almost all fly rods (some spey rods being an exception) are rated for the fly line that the rod will be casting. These ratings go from light to heavier. A 4 wt. rod generally is lighter than a 7 wt. fly rod.

For most novices, a typical fly rod is a 5 to 6 wt rod made of graphite that is about 9' long is usually the most practical. However, if the angler will be doing more fishing in situations where there are high winds, or are targeting large species of fish, heavier and longer rods may be the most suitable.

Spey rods are designed for a specific style of fly casting and although some beginners may start out using the spey casting style, most new fly fishers will not.

There can be a huge difference in the price of fly rods; in some department stores, a fly fishing rod may cost as little as $19.99 while other rods of much better quality can demand prices in the hundreds of dollars. A beginner should stay away from the least expensive fly fishing rods but there is no need to break the bank either, on your first purchase.

One of the best things a beginning fly angler should do is take lessons from a qualified casting instructor. Most instructors will be able to provide equipment for the lessons and in this way, a beginner may discover the type of rod that he or she is most comfortable with. Many manufacturers have rods that are characterized by different "actions" described as "slow," "medium," and "fast." Often, a fly caster will personally enjoy casting a slower action rod while others may prefer a fast action.

If you take lessons before purchasing your gear, you'll have a better idea of what rods you will be most comfortable with as you learn and develop your fly casting skills.