Evaluating Fly Fishing Rods Before Making Purchase

When looking for new rods, remember to match them to the type of fishing you will be doing as well as the size of the fish you are expecting to catch. The material of which the rods are made will play a role in its performance as well its price with fiberglass being less expensive than graphite. Fiberglass rods are usually more durable than graphite rods, but the lighter graphite rods provide better accuracy for casting.

For fishing in waters where most of the casts will be short, a slow-action, flexible rods have the most bend and should be used when angling for smaller fish. Medium action rods, perhaps the best for beginners offer less flexibility and rod will bend in the middle and the tip when pulling in the fish. For larger fish or for casting lost range, a fast action rod is the better choice, although they lack the casting accuracy associated with lighter rods.

The length of the rods also varies by the type of fishing you will be doing as well as the situations in which you will be casting. A medium length rod of between eight and 10 feet can provide better casting accuracy and strength

and is often recommended for beginners.

Keeping Flies Out Of The Vegetation

If you are experienced enough to fish in tight quarters such as under trees or bushes or in small streams, short rods of under eight feet will be better suited. Rods between eight and ten feet can handle bigger fish and will be needed for longer casts on wider streams or rivers. If you are fishing in larger bodies of water requiring longer casts or catching bigger fish, rods longer than 10-feet is recommended. Graphite or fiberglass is an individual choice, as well as available budget.

It is recommended for beginners to start with medium length and medium flex rods until they learn to control their casts and can do so accurately. Whenever you buy a new rod you should take it to a wide open area and use a dummy fly, that is one without a hook, and practice casting until you get a feel for the new rod.

Once you gain experience and can control the distance and accuracy of your casts, you can change to longer rods with more flexibility to improve the length and overall efficiency of your casting.