There are many choices when it comes to buying your first fly rod. As an avid fly fisherman for the past 25 years, I've taught a wide range of different age groups and skill levels. This is what has worked best for me and the people I have taught over the years.
Material-A graphite rod, although it is more expensive due to the fact that it is made from a high end material is the perfect choice for the beginner. It will be light and pliable very durable and will provide a smoother cast.
Action-Flyrods come in a wide varity of different actions (bending resistance) slow, medium and fast. Medium action rods are more limber and offer a good choice for beginners since they are easier to use and can handle many fishing conditions.
Weight- 4 to 6 weight: This is also very suitable for trout, panfish and small bass. A 4-weight is perfect for delicacy and finesse, while a 6-weight works best on big waters or in windy conditions. The middle weight - 5 - is the most versatile for trout whether you want finesse on spring-fed creeks or bigger, wider rivers.
Length- 8' - 9': These lengths are good fits for trout and bass fishing. The longer length will give you more casting range and will improve your line control.
Grips-There are many styles of grips and materials used, this will end up being a personal preference. The grip has to be something that you are comfortable using all day.
If you want an all-purpose and well balanced fly rod, look for a 5- or 6-weight rod, 8-9 feet in length with a medium to medium-fast action. This combination will tackle nearly all of the fly fishing situations you may encounter.
My Fishing Partner
Fly fishing here in Alberta, Canada is about as good now as it was when my father first took me as a young boy, 35 years ago.
Trans Alaska Oil Pipeline
With the discovery of oil in Prudhoe Bay in 1968, a pipeline was considered to be the most practical and cost effective means of transporting the crude oil from the oilfields in Alaska to the seaport of Valdez where it was to be loaded into waiting tankers for transport.
Understanding Fly Fishing Lines
The single most important thing to consider is that the fly line must match the weight on the rod it is to be used on. Due to the many manufactures and wide range of fishing conditions there is an almost endless selection of tapers and variations.
