How to select a new saltwater or freshwater fly fishing rod

Selecting a new fly rod is an art, almost as much as fly fishing itself. You have to understand the art if you want to know how to fly fish effectively.

How to choose a new fly fishing rod

• Determine what species of fish you want to target when fly fishing
• Determine what habitat you will be fishing
• Find out what the wind/weather will be like when you’re fly fishing
• Consider what type of grip is most comfortable on your fly rod
• Find stainless steel guides if you are going to fly fish saltwater

How to pick the right weight for a fly fishing rod

If redfish and snook are the type of species you will target, chances are you’ll fish the flats and the backcountry. What weight of fly rod would you need? You could use a 6 wt. but you might not be able to throw all the different flies you own if it’s windy, so then maybe you will want a 8 wt. More weight is important for accurate casts on windier days.

How to pick the right grip for a fly fishing rod

Fly rods usually come with foam grips or cork grips. There are several different types of cork. There are basically only three different grip designs for fly fishing rods; Cigar or half and full wells. Full wells are usually the easiest to keep control of. The best reel seats are aluminum with double locking rings. Find a fighting butt that is comfortable when pressed against your leg, side or gut when fighting a fish.

How to pick the right guides for a fly fishing rod

If you are going to be fly fishing in saltwater, stainless steel snake guides are important. Saltwater is very corrosive. You can find titanium guides which are even better, but they are usually very expensive. The tip guide should have a long tube foot. Short tube foot very often comes unglued.

How to pick the right finish for a fly fishing rod

Last thing to think of is: a fly fishing rod with a dull finish will not flash like a mirror and warn fish that you’re there. A shiny finish might. Fly rods with a shiny finish look great and might work just fine, but why take a chance just because it looks good?

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