Selecting a Fly Rod

See: [Trout Fly Fishing] [Saltwater Fly Fishing]
[Balanced Fly Fishing Gear] [Fly Tying] [Fly Casting]

Absolutely, the best way to choose a rod is by testing rods before you purchase. There really is no substitute for this test drive. Consider borrowing a friends rods for a trip, joining a club that may give you access to rods, and test driving rods at you local fly shop. These test drives are the art of fly fishing but there is some science to choosing a rod. This science should include study on Rod length and balance, Rod Grip, and Rod action and flex.

Balance is a key ingredient in selecting a rod to match your reel and line. With that in mind, here are several factors to consider in choosing a fly fishing rod.

Selecting the right fly rod length is fairly straightforward [See: Art1, Art2]. Simplified selection boils down to:

• 6' to 7-6"' - Light flies on small spring creeks in brushy conditions but may be tough for larger flies or windy conditions.
• 7'-6" to 8'-6"' - Longer fly rods are better for longer casting, better fly placement, and improved mending. Good on small to medium rivers.
• 8'-6" to 9' plus - The most versatile and all around length. For medium to large sized rivers. .
• 9+' - For big water. Also common for specialized fly rods for float tubers. Speys.

Another consideration is balance as it may be easier to balance a unusually light or heavy reel on a longer or shorter rod. Again, it is much better to try these out before you buy.

The angler should pick a grip that is most comfortable [See: Art1]. Generally speaking the shape of a fly rod grip is related to the rod's line weight. This standard relationship is tried and true and works for most conditions. The size, regardless of shape, should fit comfortably.

The rods action, its stiffness and flex, [See: Art1, Art2] will very materially effect your casting. The author asked several leading fly fishing guides to comment on the most usable fly rod actions. The results:

1. Fish Medium Action/Mid-Flex fly rods unless you are one of the cases 2 or 3 below. The versatility of medium action fly rods has the broadest use for most angling conditions.
2. Consider Fast Action/Tip Flex Fly Rods rods if you will be consistently fishing for large fish, need to make long casts, or if you often fish in windy conditions.
3. Consider Slow Action/Full Flex Fly Rods for small spring creeks and rivers , light tackle fly fishing, or if you often hook up fish "larger" than your rod was designed for.

Again, rod action effects casting and is one of the prime reason to try a rod before you buy.