Fly-Fishing Rods – Wondering Why They Are So Long?

Why is the fly fishing rod so long? If you are a novice who is looking to buy his first fly fishing rod then the length of a fly fishing rod compared to a typical fishing pole is very noticeable. For the beginner this extra length may be cumbersome since they might try casting the rod as they would a typical fishing pole, or they might feel that a long rod may not be a good idea. However, there is a very good reason for the length of the fly fishing rod and why anglers should not be bothered by the length. Let’s take a look at why the fly fishing rod is longer so that you can make the best decision when shopping for your rod.

Longer Rods Mean More Accurate Casting Over Short Distances

Firstly, when casting from a fly fishing rod, you are aiming for a target that is 10-15 feet away from you. Casting from a typical fishing pole is very different because you are aiming to get the bait as far away as possible. You want your bait to land 40 or 50 feet away or even more. However when fly fishing the distance is substantially shorter so you need your cast to be very accurate. This is where the length of the fly fishing rod is vital.

Flies Are Light and More Difficult to Position Accurately than Weighed Bait

In fly fishing, the weight of the fly is next to nothing but the line is heavy. So when casting, the line needs to direct the fly to the designated target. In a typical fishing rod, the hook is weighted by the bait and sinkers. So when casting from a typical pole, the line is being pulled by the hook. Therefore in an ordinary fishing pole, the lure or bait pull the line, but in a fly fishing rod, the line is the one pulling the fly behind it. Since it is hard to control how the line moves, the length of the rod aids the line and directs it to the targeted spot.

When casting a line with a fly fishing rod, the rod will guide the line and the momentum the tossing creates pushes or snaps the line at a certain length. This is where your fly will land. So the longer rod will be easier to direct to the spot where you want your fly to be.

How Long is Long?

So a good rod for fly fishing is somewhere between 9 to 10 feet. This length may seem intimidating or awkward for newbies, however a long fly fishing rod means more control and direction to your casting, so never underestimate the length of your fly fishing rod. It is hard to play golf with a hockey stick, or basketball with a football. So even when fly fishing, the right fly fishing rod is a very important piece of equipment. So consider the factors before picking up that new fly fishing rod.

John Reece is a freelance writer for www.helpfuladviceonline.com and he has just published "fly-fishing guide", "Get Your Fly On" a guide to fly-fishing available as an eguide and audioguide.