Author Topic: New fly rod & reel (Read 1518 times)

RBishop · « **on:** May 11, 2005, 05:31:51 AM »

What would you guys recommend for fishing for rainbows and browns in small eastern rivers? Rod length, line weight and brand. Please be specific as to rod model also. Same with reel.

I will probally buy Sage, but not sure what length, line weight I need. I am relatively new to fly fishing, some experience, just been away from it for several years and want to get back into it this year.

Thanks to all!

Reg

flatlander · « **Reply #1 on:** May 13, 2005, 05:24:47 AM »

What size of fish do you normally catch, and how is your typical fishing? Do you need to present softly at close range, or do you have to throw long range to get to where they are? I will give a more specific answer if you have a bit more info on your rod application. Just guessing, I'd say 5 or 6 weight in a mod/fast action.

I would recommend that you look at 2 of my favorite manufacturers right now. You'll find the cost is lower because they aren't paying sponsorships or advertising, but are producing quality products. The first is Dan Craft at http://www.dancraftent.com/loadit.html. He is a blank manufacturer and will also build a rod to your requirements. His blanks are awesome, and will perform with just about anything on the market at a fraction of the cost. He has several lines available, and if you call to talk to him, he'll give you some good advice on what will suit you. The second is Batson enterprises. http://www.batsonenterprises.com/index.html Their Rainshadow line is also a quality product. You will have to get someone to build it up for you, but you should still be able to keep your performance at the same high level for less money than some of the high end brands. Again, call and talk to them. They are all fishermen, and will give you good practical advice, and not steer you toward what they have the most of in stock. If you need someone to build, there are some resources to look up a reputable builder in your area. Let me know and I'll get you hooked up with a couple of the sites.

RBishop · « **Reply #2 on:** May 13, 2005, 08:34:10 AM »

Thanks for the info. I primarily fish hatchery trout (not many natives left) in small to medium Eastern TN rivers. Rainbows and browns anywhere from 10" to 20". So I don't need a rod you would need say on Western river. In fact some our trout rivers wouldnt even be called rivers by those Westerners I suppose.

flatlander · « **Reply #3 on:** May 13, 2005, 09:29:17 AM »

So I would say 4 or 5 wt would most likely fit the bill. I might lean toward the 5 if you are catching a lot in the 18-20" class. I really like the Dan Craft Sig V line, and the FT blanks are supposed to be awesome as well. Since I've started wrapping my own, I haven't really kept up with the factory built stuff, but I've heard a lot about the Cabelas 5 piece stowaway line and Temple Fork is a hot line too. But I can't say I've used either personally. I guess a lot would depend on how fast you like the action as well.
I hate to comment on reel selection, because I'm one of those who sees the reel as a line storage unit in most applications, so I cringe at spending $150 or more on it. The good news is that there have been a lot of new reels on the market lately that are very decent reels without spending outrageous amounts of money for. Cabelas, Bass Pro, Redington, Echo, Okuma, Orvis, STH, and Scientific Anglers (I'm sure I've missed others) have all entered into this range with decent models. Are they the same level of quality machinery as a $350 reel. Most likely not, but do you need it in real terms on the river? Probably not, but that's something everyone needs to decide for himself and his wallet.

Rustyinfla · « **Reply #4 on:** May 14, 2005, 02:08:59 PM »

My local fly shop has suggested Tripple Forks Outfitters to me. Right now they are the best thing out there with a worthwhile life time guarantee.
As a new comer I'd say it won't be long till I break a tip.

Rusty <><

ratgunner · « **Reply #5 on:** May 14, 2005, 02:57:21 PM »

I've got too many rods,but my 8' 5wt gets the most use next is my 71/2' 4wt. Hope that helps.You should be well off with either one.I also suggest a medium fast action. :wink:

dougk · « **Reply #6 on:** August 12, 2005, 01:32:58 PM »

If your going to those small streams a Scott 5 piece, 5 wt pack rod would work nicely. I dont rememeber the length, but use this rod most of the time when fishing smaller streams in the north east.

Good Luck
Doug

Keith L · « **Reply #7 on:** September 27, 2005, 04:37:32 PM »

I have a four piece St. Croix Imperial. It is always with me in my truck, and works well on the small Wisconsin streams. This one is 9' and handles a number 5 line.

Don's skimp on line. Get a good one right away. It will help your presentation and casting, as well as lasting longer. Reel is less important.

NYStillhunter · « **Reply #8 on:** June 10, 2006, 05:42:52 AM »

Get a medium action 5 wieght in an 8 to 9 foot lengnth. An Orvis Battenkill reel and a good Dt flyline and you are set my friend! I like Scott rods but Winstons are sweet :grin: NYS