Fly Rod Prices - What's The Deal?

Recently, I was talking with an acquaintance who loves to fly fish. He expressed an interest in purchasing a fly fishing rod that was going to cost him over $2,000.00! What's the deal with all the price differences in fly rods and how much should you spend?

There are huge variances in the prices of fly rods for a number of different reasons. Quality is of course one of the major considerations in the price of a rod. Most fishing rods today are made of graphite or a graphite composite. Better quality graphite rods that are able to take advantage of the properties of graphite are built with resin systems that underwent a great deal of research costs and expense in implementing.

Another reason for the differences in prices are geographical. Rods that are made in North America or Europe tend to be more expensive than those made in Asia due to labour and property costs. Also, the quality of material used in the manufacture of rods made in Asia is often lacking and less expensive than those rods made in North America.

Of course, there is also the question of "What's in a name?" Rod manufacturers that have spent a lot of money in marketing and building up their name reputation will price their rods much higher than for similar quality rods made by others.

The selection of components that are used to make the fishing rod can also affect the price. Fishing rods typically have a grip made of cork. Today, top quality cork that has less pits in it can cost considerably more than substandard cork found on very inexpensive fishing rods. The type and material of reel seat that is on the rod is another factor. Some nickel silver and hardwood insert reel seats alone can cost more than than some inexpensive complete fly rods. Often, a reel seat can be poorly made and will not hold and secure a fly reel to the rod very well.

The choice of guides is another factor that will affect the price of fly fishing rods. Guides keep the fly line running along the rod when it is being cast or retrieved, and many manufacturers will skimp on the number of guides on the rod. More expensive rods will have guides that are made of better material that will resist grooving caused by wear and tear.

When you first start out fly fishing, how much should you expect to spend? In my opinion, you should stay away from both the cheapest and the most expensive fly fishing rods, and instead select one that is in the middle range.

My acquaintance? His $2,000.00 is going towards a finely hand crafted and custom made split cane rod - perhaps something you'll want to own yourself someday that could be considered a family heirloom. But when you are just starting out, there is no need to purchase or use anything like this.