Fly Rods Buyer’s Guide Choosing the Best Fly Rod for Beginners
Fishing continues to gain popularity among the American population, as participation continued its 11-year upward trajectory. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, more than 51.59 million Americans went out to waterways for recreational fishing in 2017. As a beginner to fly fishing, choosing your first Fly Rod can be overwhelming. Here are a few insights to help you choose the best Fly Rods.
1. Rod Weight
Fly Rods are designed to cast the weighted fly line. The rod’s weight rating denotes the weight of the Fly Line to pair with, with the numbering system running from 1 to 14. The heavier the fish you intend to catch, the heavier the rod should be. A heavier fly, stiffer winds, and larger water bodies also demand a heavier weight rating.
2. Rod Length
Fly Rods are typically longer than conventional spot fishing rods. Shorter rods are excellent for anglers fishing in small streams and facing more obstacles in the bushes. Long rods are effective for lengthier casting. A 9″ rod is the most common choice for most beginners.
3. Rod Action and Flex
The action of a Fly Rod relates to its flexibility or bend during casting. A tip-flex rod only bends at the first third, mid-flex rods bend until the halfway point, while full-flex rods bend up to the grip. Fast action Fly Rods quickly load and unload, making them suitable for a long cast and stiffer winds. Slow action rods are excellent for delicate fly presentations.
4. Purpose
The functionality of the Fishing Rod is a vital element to consider before purchase. What kind of species do you intend to catch? Which type of water are you fishing in? The purpose of the Fly Rod determines the weight, length, and action of the rod you choose.
5. Rod Material
Fly Rod technologies continue to advance by the day, incorporating different materials for the makeup. Graphite is the most commonly used material, comprising of over 95% of the Fly Rods in the market. The rods are light, durable, and extremely sensitive, perfect for a fly fishing beginner. Bamboo and Fiberglass Fly Rods are also common.
6. Condition of Your Fishing Spot
The setting of your fishing ground may also determine the type of rod that you choose. Large streams and rivers may necessitate a fast action rod. Fishing for small trout in a mountain stream may require a small action rod. Most professional anglers recommend beginners to start with a 9’ 5wt Fly Rod, regardless of the setting.
7. Multi-piece Fly Rods
Modern Fly Rods may come in two to seven pieces that can be broken down for easier transportation. The more the pieces, the easier it is to store and transport. Advances in technology eliminated challenges in the transfer of energy, making four-pieces or seven pieces rods as effective as two-piece Fly Rod. Therefore you do not have to compromise on efficiency for portability or vice versa.
In Conclusion
Finding the right Fly rod is the first step to an exciting fly fishing experience. If you need help in finding the best fly Rods for sale, check out ReelFlyRod. There you will find great deals on Fly Rods, custom fly reels, fly fishing tackle bags, and other fishing equipment. The expert staff will guide you in selecting the perfect rod to suit your needs. You can also visit their website to see what they have available.