The Fly Fishing Rod

By Zac Kurtsmier

One of the nice things about fly fishing is that very little equipment is needed. However, special care should be taken when choosing a fly rod, and a cheap rod is not the best way to go.

A good way into fly fishing is to take advantage of a “combo” deal. These often consist of a cheap rod and reel, plus line and other bits and pieces to get you fishing, but it is worth visiting a dedicated fly fishing retailer who will often offer a combo deal on more expensive, but far superior equipment.

Whether you choose to buy a fly rod as part of a combo deal or not, keep in mind that it is the rod where most of your budget should go.

A fly line is designed to be thicker at the end to give it some weight to allow it to pull the line behind out when casting. Some are gently tapered, while others have what is called a “shooting head” where weight is concentrated in the first few inches of the line (there are other variations too), and it is the angler and the action of the rod that makes this possible.

Therefore, casting a fly line consists of what is called a “back cast”. This is where the line is thrown (cast) behind the angler. Many people think that this is simply to play out more line to result in a longer forward cast, but that is not the whole story.

The back cast is actually to “load” the rod. In other words to bend the rod backwards, adding energy to the forward cast. People often fail to learn this correctly and their casting is then compromised.

“Loading” the rod correctly is the absolute key to successful casting, and casting distance. This is achieved by stopping the rod on the back cast, pretty much when the rod is in the vertical position. This causes the line that has been cast backwards pulling the stopped rod tip backwards, which builds up energy into the rod, making it spring forward on the forward cast.

If the rod is not stopped in the vertical position on the back cast and is allowed to continue backwards, all that will happen is the line will keep travelling backwards and either end up on the ground when you cast forward, or simply loop over your head on the forwards cast, resulting in frustration.

In addition to stopping the rod when it’s in the vertical position on the back cast, it is also important to pause for about a second, or until you feel the line pulling the rod backwards, before making the forward cast.

You can see that that the rod you choose is important, and a cheap rod won’t load as much on the back cast because it will be stiffer than the more expensive fly fishing rod, and therefore not cast as easily or as far.

To get the best rod for your money, visit a retailer who will let you try their rods first.

However, before buying any rod, get some lessons! That way you will then know what you should be doing, even if you can’t quite yet manage it!

One of the best ways to begin fly fishing is buying fly fishing combos. Then you get a lot of what you need at a discount. To look after your rod, also buy fishing rod cases to protect your rods when out fishing.

categories: Fly fishing rod,fly fishing,angling,fishing,trout fishing,salmon fishing,hobbies,sports

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