Fly rod info needed

[sigpros]

Well my son really enjoyed fishing Yellowstone and is wanting to get a fly rod and try it out. What type/brand should I be looking at for a good starter rod for trout fishing? I know nothing about fly fishing. Just figured with Christmas coming up. Might be good to get some research in

Thank you for any help

 

[LuketheDog]

Not sure of your budget, but TFO is pretty solid for entry level rods...

 

[Matthew57]

Another one I’ve been happy with is the Echo Lift.

 

[Salmonchaser]

I ran a lot of TFO and Echos, their entry level rods are good equipment. I'd have several rookie fly fishermen a week when I was guiding, I found a slow to moderate action to be more forgiving for those learning to cast.
Didn't seem to matter if they were fishing a 4,6, or 8 weight as long as it was slow action.
Get some basic lessons then bring him to Alaska. Nothing like positive reinforcement.

 

[Jnasa]

It depends on what his primary target species would be.

I’d suggest a 5 or 6 weight rod for trout. I think the 5 weight is a bit more forgiving to learn on. The 6 weight gives more versatility though if you want to cast streamers or possibly target bass also.

I recommend a 9 foot 4 piece rod. Going shorter makes casting a bit tougher. Some people like longer rods but I think the 9’ is a good starting point.

I’m not sure of your budget. I wouldn’t recommend a flagship rod for his first. Let him learn what he likes before making that investment. I’ve fished 25 years on a starter package. Then bought an intermediate rod a few years back and only this year upgraded.

I’ve read many positive things on TFO but am not familiar. I have an Orovis Clearwater combo. I feel it is decent for the price. There are several decent brands that have a starter set for $200 ish. I’ve had mixed results with cabelas kits so may stay clear of them unless you get your hands to try first.

 

[JoMo]

How old is your son? As others said, it will depend on where he will likely be spending most of his time fishing. That said, go with a company that has a great replacement/warranty program… I’ve sent back many rods in my life to either be repaired or replaced, and am grateful when it’s just a (relatively) small price vs. a full cost to replace. Dogs on rafts, kids on rafts, doors or tailgates being shut, streamers hitting the tip and eventually breaking off - all these things are nice when they are covered with no questions asked by the manufacturer.

 

[cityslicker]

Redington CT is a great budget rod. It holds its own against some much more expensive competitors-

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I also have been content with a Piscifun Sword reel lately. Go to your local fly shop and let them string up some line, leader, and tippet for you. Can't go wrong with either 4 weight or 5 weight if trout stream fishing is his thing. Can even fish a little bass and bluegill poppers on lakes and ponds with those if he wanted.

 

[Bob-WY]

I started with an echo from local store. Came all set up, reel, line etc. 9 foot 5 weight 4 piece. I still use it at times. Great way to start

 

[nrpate05]

I started with TFO rods and still have a couple that I use regularly. If it wasn't for a very generous gift I'd likely still be using a TFO as my primary rod. Redington also makes quality less expensive rods. I'd get one of those combos that includes a reel, line and case. A 9' 5wt 4 piece is a good starting place and can do most anything.

 

[Stone_Ice_1]

I 2nd the Reddington rods. They are quality and the price isn't too bad. I have several of them and have used the lifetime warranty many times.

That said for a first rod to decide if somebody really likes it, I wouldn't hesitate to go with this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001IAHX6A?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_3

I got one for my son and have been very happy with the quality. And it comes with everything you need. If he enjoys it, you and him can always spend more later to get a rod that is exactly what he wants.

 

[JohnCushman]

Another vote for TFO. I have a couple of Lefty Kreh signature rods and absolutely love them. Also, spend the big money on the rod and not the reel. The reel basically just holds the line while the rod fights the fish. Okuma has several budget friendly reels.

 

[44hunter45]

I've had good luck with Echo and Redington. Horrible luck with the Sportmans' and Cabela's "starter" rods.

 

[Sheltowee]

I'm going to buck the trend but a 9ft, 5wt. Orvis Clearwater kit is a solid entry-level package. Would do equally well for trout as panfish and small bass in the ponds back in Mizzurah.

Cannot stress how much I would recommend getting him a casting lesson or two at a local fly shop and maybe picking up a guide for his first trip chasing trout out west.

 

[Arcola]

I'd echo most of the brands mentioned and I prefer to start newbies with 5 weight and slow to medium action. I'm a two piece fan, but i get it that four pieces are easier to transport. I'd also suggest 8'6" at a minimum (9ft is my preference).

 

[MTLabrador]

9’ 5 weight Echo lift is pretty hard to beat for a starter kit, and it’s inexpensive.

 

[Irrelevant]

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[Salmonchaser]

It would be tough to learn how to fish without learning how to cast. The two are not synonymous. I see the lessons a good guide can teach far exceeds the nominal cost. I've known a lot of guides, some who worked for me, refused to divulge any information as to how and why. Make sure the guide you hire understands you want your son to learn how to fish.

 

[Arcola]

It would be tough to learn how to fish without learning how to cast. The two are not synonymous. I see the lessons a good guide can teach far exceeds the nominal cost. I've known a lot of guides, some who worked for me, refused to divulge any information as to how and why. Make sure the guide you hire understands you want your son to learn how to fish.

I took a lesson at a local fly shop many years ago. Little tricks from an experienced instructor cut the learning curve dramatically. I passed those tips on to my boys and they both cast better than I do at 6yo and 10yo.

 

[Irrelevant]

I'm cheap, so I'd have him stand in the yard and practice via youtube. Once he stops "snapping it" then you can tie a fly on. Shit watch a river runs through it, he'll get the drift.

 

[Hem]

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