Fly Fishing Rod and Reel

[Michelle]

Hi there!

I'm just starting out, had a lesson on fly fishing with my partner and is very keen in getting our own beginner's fly fishing rod. Have read some useful articles like: http://www.theflyfishingplace.com/Your_ ... y_Rod.html

But still not very sure which ones are suitable. Think looking at some Medium, small and medium sized streams, 8.5 to 9 foot rod for 4, 5, or 6 weight fly line, medium to fast action rods.

Anybody knows where we can get a reel and rod set around A$80-A$100 if its possible at that price? Or is that not recommended? I'm also looking at this but am not sure if it is good:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/BEGINNERS-FL ... 500wt_1127

Gonna be buying 2 sets so hopefully not going to end up with something crappy.

Any feedback or opinions will be most welcome! Thank you!

[Wolly Bugger]

Hi there!

I'm just starting out, had a lesson on fly fishing with my partner and is very keen in getting our own beginner's fly fishing rod. Have read some useful articles like: http://www.theflyfishingplace.com/Your_ ... y_Rod.html

But still not very sure which ones are suitable. Think looking at some Medium, small and medium sized streams, 8.5 to 9 foot rod for 4, 5, or 6 weight fly line, medium to fast action rods.

Anybody knows where we can get a reel and rod set around A$80-A$100 if its possible at that price? Or is that not recommended? I'm also looking at this but am not sure if it is good:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/BEGINNERS-FL ... 500wt_1127

Gonna be buying 2 sets so hopefully not going to end up with something crappy.

Any feedback or opinions will be most welcome! Thank you!

Sometimes if you are lucky an elderly gentleman passes away and the family sells his fly fishing gear.

Generally look for sales or specials, and of course quality often depends on what you pay.

Having said that a fresh water environment is much kinder than salt.

I have a custom made rod that I bought decades ago, and it is a 7 weight, when compared to a 5 weight it is heavy and I enjoyed casting the 5 and the 5 weight was a cheapy.

[wading not drowning]

Hi Michelle.Can I recommend Jarvis Walkers 6wt as a good place to start.I had the good fortune to be taking the sport up as these rods were being introduced years ago.They were developed by a local,Mick Hall as a learning tool and did a superb job.I just did a quick web search and it seems the 6wt is still available.Shame the 5 was a cracker.The 6 will still fish small water but as you get sucked in I think you will be in the market for a smaller stick but by then you will have a better understanding of your personal likes and style.Hope this helps. Neil. P.S.Last time I saw them J.W were doing rod,reel,line deals for around $150.

[wading not drowning]

Should add Michelle,any quality in this rod is found in the blank.The fittings are a bit shabby (i.e. glues can become brittle or soft so don't be scared to stick bits back on. I have experienced this same problem on much more expensive rods so don't be put off,just aware.

[Time Poor]

Hi Michelle,

I had a look at your ebay link. Personally I wouldn't touch it, you only get what you pay for. I noted that it was a UK site? If you are looking to purchase from the UK then I would recommend you get any of the following to send you their free catalogue. The fly-fishing season in the UK is coming to an end and many stockist have sales on atm. I am neither encouraging nor discouraging you from buying from Australia, just informing you of options. Indeed, with the rise of the AUD against all major currencies by 40% I appreciate how difficult it is to remain competitive for domestic retailers, especially as the service from US/UK is second to none imho. You will also benefit by not being charged VAT(GST) at 20% from the UK, although your credit card will charge for forex conversion at highway robbery rates and they'll ask you to contribute to the extra postage.

http://www.sportfish.co.uk/

http://www.garryevans.co.uk/

http://www.fishtec.co.uk/


Personally I would agree, a 6 blank (preferably with snake rings) is the way forward for you - you can pick up some excellent rods for around $75. I'd also concentrate on the line rather than the reel, I'd match it with a wf7 floating line. Airflo Cortland do some excellent lines for beginners, although I am a huge Lee Wulffe triangular taper fan that I cannot get in Australia. A reasonable reel should cost under $50.

I'd also put on my Christmas list a fishing jacket to put all your gear into whilst still having at least one hand free - the last thing you want is to be wandering around and have an accident due to carrying too much stuff around in your hands.

If you'd like any other advice, just post.