Choosing a Fly Fishing Rod

When you choose a fly fishing rod, you will have to use an industry standard system that specifies weight. Fly fishing rods are not weighed in grams. Instead, a 1 to 14 number system is used. It’s quite easy to determine the optimum weight of your rod by basing it on the size and species of fish that you plan to catch.

A basic guide that will assist you in choosing the proper fly rod is: Lower weight, small fish; higher weight, larger fish. Secondary factors include personal preference and weather conditions. Light fly rods do not cast well if the wind is strong.

Species and Weight Guide

• Weight 1to 3 – pan fish, small trout and other small fish species.

• Weight 4 – small fish species of all kinds.

• Weight 5 to 6 – small bass and medium-sized trout.

• Weight 7 to 8 – large bass, large trout, steelhead and salmon.

• Weight 9 to 14 – muskie, tarpon, large salmon and large saltwater fish species.

Always choose a line and reel that have the identical rod weight that you have chosen.

Beginners should use a 3 to 5 weight rod when fishing streams. If you are fishing for bass, a 5 to 6 weight rod is best. Saltwater species and freshwater salmon require a rod that is 7 to 8 weight.

Length

Common lengths for fly fishing rods are 7, 8 and 9 feet. Use short rods for short casts in areas that are surrounded by brush, trees or shrubs. If fishing in an open area where longer casts are possible, choose a longer fly fishing rod. If you plan to fish in lakes or rivers, choose a rod of 4 to 6 weight that is 8 to 9 feet long and use a medium action rod for the best results.

Brent Vanderstelt is Owner and operator of Hess Lake Vacation Rentals in Newaygo Michigan and is located just 30 minutes north of Grand Rapids.