If you are someone who loves procrastifishing, then you will love anything that will trigger you to step out and go fly fishing.
You may have gathered up all the stuff and just realize you don’t own a rod yet for that. What would you do? Obviously! you run into a computer to check the best rods that will be great for beginners and that’s the reason why you are reading it.
Don’t worry! We won’t blabber much because we know how eager you are to know the best ones in the market so you can grab one soon.
So, let’s dive into the review and know the 10 best fly fishing rods for beginners.
Related article:
Best Fly Fishing Rods We Will Cover Today
1.Best Choice-Moonshine
2.Best Overall-Redington Classic
3.Best Price-Piscifun Sword
4.Best 4-Piece-M MAXIMUMCATCH
5.Best 9′-Orvis Clearwater 5
6.Best Saltwater-Sage Fly Fishing Motive
7.Best Fast action-Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa
8.Best cork handl-St Croix Imperial USA Fly rod
9.Best Nano Composite-Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
10.Best For Big One-DRAGONtail Hellbender Zoom Tenkara
Top 10 Fly fishing Rod Reviews!
1.Moonshine Fly Fishing Rod
Have you ever met a kind of rod that provides you with moments that stir the soul? That’s The Drifter for you.
You can collapse it down to 4 pieces so you can carry it anywhere easily. There will be a hard canvas case that has 5 compartments where you can store the rod and protect it. The extra rod tip is a big plus since the tip is likely to break easily, so it will be a great thing to have a replacement.
Moreover, it has used graphite as its material so that you can enjoy its durability and flexibility other than its lightness. Not just that, it also lets you use a heavy fly line so you can cast a long distance.
Since it is a medium action rod, you will be able to chase after fish such as nymphs, streamers, and dry flies. Although it does not generate high line speed you will find it very forgiving.
Besides, it comes in 6w which means you can also catch smaller fish like panfish or trout in a small stream with a short distance.
The rod has 9 feet length that provides you with an easy throw while keeping the line above the vegetation on the back-cast.
To add more, you will also love its copper hardware, matte finish, and wood burl which look great together. Plus, the cork handle feels quite high quality.
However, it has been recommended to maintain and clean the fly fishing rod periodically if you use it in saltwater. Because there is a chance of the rod to get corroded.
Pros:
- It Can be broken down into 4 sections.
- It Comes with a 5-compartments canvas case for protection.
- Extra rod tip will be provided as a spare.
- Great for casting trout, panfish, nymphs, streamers, and dry flies.
- The material delivers maximum durability and sensitivity.
- Cork handle feels quite high quality.
- Forgiving line speed.
Cons:
- It May not generate high speed.
- Likely to get corroded if not rinsed well after using in saltwater.
2.Redington Classic Trout Fly Fishing Rod
Classic Trout knows how to win you by delivering the most wanted features that are just for beginners.
The rod has been made with high-quality graphite that makes it a very sensitive and light Fly rod coming with amazing elasticity.
You can break it down into 4 sections and since there are dots for alignment, you will find them easy to setup. You will also get a brown Ballistic nylon tube that will take care of the rod while offering protection.
The rod comes in 4w that will let you catch small fish such as trout or panfish in a small water body with a relatively short distance.
It happens to be 8 feet long which makes it easy to throw so you can enjoy smooth fly fishing even being a newbie.
Moreover, this is a medium action rod which means you will get to enjoy forgiving line speed. Although you won’t be able to cast long distances since it fails to generate much high line speed, you will love its flexibility. As a result, the rod is able to make a fast range and precise roll casts.
If you are eager to learn and control rods the way you want, then this is fly fishing rods for beginners.
However, the fly fishing rod does not perform great under strong winds. So, it can be a little issue for you.
Pros:
- High-quality graphite offers lightness, durability, and flexibility.
- It Can be broken down into 4 pieces.
- It Comes with a 4-compartments Ballistic nylon tube.
- Easy to throw.
- Great for catching trout or panfish.
- Line speed is very forgiving.
- It Offers precise roll cast and fast range.
Cons:
- Fails to perform great under windy conditions.
- It does not generate high line speed, so it may not offer a long cast.
3.Piscifun Sword Graphite Fly Fishing Rod
Use this Sword as a weapon to not only shine in fishing but also to make yourself fish like a pro.
Once you get it in hand, you will fall in love with its lightness and durability, thanks to the IM7 Graphite material used in the rod. Besides, you will also have chrome guides and ceramic stripping guide inserts that provide you with nothing but smooth gliding fly lines.
The Fly fishing rod weighs 4w that may fail to catch bigger and dominant fish but performs great when it comes to smaller streams, smaller trout, or sunfish.
Since it will be generating slower speed due to having slow action, you can enjoy a short and precise cast as a beginner. Not just that, it also enables you to have better control of your line so you can have such precision.
However, you may find it a bit harder to control the backcast but this should not bother you.
The rod comes in 8 feet long that you will find it easy to throw. In addition, you can collapse it down to 4 pieces so you can carry it to any fishing area you want. You will also get a solid PVC tube that does not only offer easy storage but also provides protection.
Its easy setup is another great factor. There will be white dots on the rod so you can align them accurately and easily to assemble it up for use.
The packaging can be another issue that many users complained about. But it did not damage the product which shows the quality of the rod.
Pros:
- Graphite delivers maximum durability and sensitivity
- It Can be broken down into 4 sections.
- Great for fishing smaller streams, smaller trout, or sunfish.
- It Offers better control of your line.
- It’s Provides you with accurate casting.
- Best 7 weight fly rod
- It”s Comes with a solid PVC tube that offers protection.
Cons:
- Tough to control on the backcast.
- Packaging may disappoint you.
4.M MAXIMUMCATCH Graphite Fly fishing Rod
Give yourself the privilege to go extreme with this Extreme fly rod that comes all the way through M MAXIMUMCATCH Fly Fishing Rod.
As it has used IM7 24T and 30T carbon fiber, you will get to enjoy both flexibility and solidity. The brand has also increased its strength by 20% by adding 5 layers of carbon to the overall construction. However, the tip can be found to be a little bit flimsy.
The Fly rod features stripping guides and snake guides that are made up of chromed stainless steel to offer lightness and durability. It also comprises of an oversized tip loop so it can provide you with smoother and longer-lasting.
If you are a beginner, you may find it tough to handle the rod because of its fast action. Albeit it offers great performance with its stiffness in windy conditions. But it has not been designed for newbies primarily.
That said, there are other reasons that make it one of the best fly fishing rods for beginners. One is that it lets you catch bigger fish due to coming in 9 feet long. And the other is that it lets you chase after smaller fish in the restricted area as well due to weighing 4w.
Besides, it also offers a long-distance cast while providing you with high-efficiency loading and powerful performance by the slip taper.
Its reel seat features 2 up-locking rings to it can deliver a strong attachment of the reel foot. Meanwhile, its cork handle will also be there to offer a comfy grip.
Pros:
- Carbon fiber offers a combination of flexibility and durability.
- Best 4 weight fly rod.
- Great for catching smaller fish due to the weight.
- It Offers high-efficiency loading and long-distance cast.
- It enables you to have great control.
- Offers amazing performance even in windy condition due to stiffness.
Cons:
- Not recommended for beginners because of the fast action rod.
- The tip is easy to break.
5.Orvis Clearwater 5-weight 9′ Fly Rod
Quality at a cheaper rate. That’s only possible when you have Clearwater by Orvis which happens to be one of the best fly fishing rods
Having been made up of graphite, the rod performs well with its durability and lightness. Not just that, you will also get to enjoy its flexibility and sensitivity.
With a medium action, the rod is capable of capturing the midpoint between power and precision. It does not only help in boosting flexibility but can create an excellent presentation with dry flies, nymphs, or streamers as well.
Not just that, since it comes in 5w, you can also catch small streamers and other similar sized fishes.
You will also love to use the fly rod in the majority of the river, lake, and environment. It is versatile enough to function greatly and take you to pro-level from beginner level.
Besides, the rod is stated to be travel-friendly because you can break it down to 4 sections.
To add more, it has 9 feet length that helps in enriching the line mending while letting you catch dominant fish.
Its Helios technology profiles and tapers will also work to make your fly get deeper into the water. Besides, the rod boasts to offer exceptional line control that makes it perfect for beginners.
The only gripe that most users had is that the model has not been made in the United States. This can raise doubts about the quality of the rod.
Pros:
- Graphite material offers lightness, durability, and flexibility.
- Great for catching bigger fish due to medium action.
- Great for catching smaller fish due to weight.
- It Can be broken down into 4 sections that make it travel-friendly.
- The size helps in enriching the line mending.
- It Comes with Helios technology profiles and tapers.
- It offers unique line control.
Cons:
- Not made in the United States.
6.Sage Fly Fishing Motive Fly Rod
The only motive Sage has is to offer their fly fishing rods for beginners. And you can get that in the form of this Motive rod.
It has been engineered with Graphite IIIe technology making it a solid and light product to use and fish. The material further offers excellent elasticity so you can have all the control.
Besides the construction, its ceramic stripper guides also feel durable while coming in oversized.
You can break it down into 4 sections to carry it for travel purposes. Not only you will find it easy to assemble but dissemble as well.
There will be a cork fore grip and rear grip that provide you with added grip whereas the reel seat delivers easy accommodation for the reel.
The fly rod comes in 9 feet long that offers easier throw whereas it weighs 6w which lets you chase after smaller fish in the restricted area with ease. However, catching bigger fish with the rod can be challenging for you.
As it is a fast action rod, it offers stiffness making it a great pick for windy weather. Plus, it also triggers you to enjoy added control over the loops of the line with the flex. However, it is more designed for the pros than for the newbies. So, you may find it hard to handle the rod properly.
That said, if you have gained advanced skills being a newbie, you can think of having it.
Pros:
- Graphite material provides you with lightness, durability, and flexibility.
- The length helps with an easy throw.
- The weight enables you to catch small fish.
- Fast action lets you fish under windy weather with ease.
- It offers great control over the loops.
- It Can be broken down into 4 pieces for easy portability.
Cons:
- Fast action rod is not recommended for beginners.
- You may not be able to cast big and dominant fish.
7.Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod
Meet Toccoa, a very travel-friendly rod that you would love to take to almost every waterbody.
Since you can break it down into 4 sections, you will find it easier to carry. Not just that, you can store it in a 4-compartment Cordura tube that will protect the rod while making it feel safe in.
Albeit it is more on the heavier side but that should not be a problem. The newbies can chase after trout or panfish in a bit restricted area with a short cast due it coming in 5 weight.
As for the material, it has been made up of IM8 graphite that offers maximum durability as well as sensitivity. Plus, you will also be able to concentrate on battling fish and presentations without worrying about the fly rod.
You will also have an adjustable shoulder strap that is a big plus. So you can hang it over the shoulder and enjoy tension-free bushwhacking.
It is stated to be easier to assemble. Just follow the alignment dots that will help in getting the sections lined up and you are good to go.
The only factor that does not make it perfect for a beginner is that it has fast action. The rod albeit allows for longer cast and handles windy conditions greatly, it is more recommended for the pro anglers than the newbies.
However, you will also find it easy to throw since it comes in 9 feet. Plus, there will be a cork handle that is stated to be high in quality. So, the rod promotes both fatigue-free use and comfort.
The look in dark gray can make you want the rod even more. It does not only look great but also helps avoid scaring fish away.
Pros:
- It Can be broken down into 4 sections.
- It Comes with a 4-compartments Cordura tube for protection.
- Great for casting trout or panfish.
- The material delivers maximum durability and sensitivity.
- Adjustable shoulder strap.
- Best fly rods of all time
- Cork handle promotes fatigue-free use.
Cons:
- A bit on the heavier side.
- Fast action so may not be ideal for newbies.
8.St Croix Imperial USA Fly rod
Elevated performance at a realistic price- this rod is able to do what it says.
Coming in premium quality SCII graphite and high strain SCIV graphite, this Fly Fishing Rod offers a dynamic blend of high modulus.
Not just that, there will also be a premium grade handle that lets you grip the rod very comfortably.
The Fly rod weighs 9w that gives you all the opportunity to catch both small and medium-sized fish starting from salmon to steelhead in any waterbody.
You will also find it comes in 9 feet long that does not only let you cast easily but also offers easy portability by collapsing it down to 4 pieces.
The ferrules have a slip profile that delivers tough and tight-fitting.
The snake guides will also be there coming in PVD coating to offer added smoothness and hardness.
The only issue is its fast action. Although, it’s a great pick for using it on windy days. But it requires a skilled and experienced hand to handle the rod smoothly. So, beginners may find it tough to use it properly.
Pros:
- Graphite material offers solidity and lightness.
- Its Premium grade handle delivers amazing grip.
- Ideal for catching both small and medium-sized fish.
- It Can be collapsed down to 4 pieces.
- Best fly rods for the money
- Guides offer added hardness and smoothness.
- It Can be used on extremely windy days.
Cons:
- Not recommended for beginners because of a fast action rod.
9.Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
AETOS Fly fishing rod is able to bring you all those needed features that you may not find in other fly rods. And this is the reason why it is one of the fly fishing rods for beginners.
Firstly, it comes in carbon fiber that makes it very solid to offer long-lasting performance.
Besides, it has 9 feet in length that lets you chase after bigger fish in bigger water bodies. Speaking of the size, you can also break it down into 4 sections so you carry it easily to any spot. However, there are many users who complained about setup issues. It has been found that the dots do not line up correctly with the reel seat and this disappointed the users. But the good part is that it did not stop them from using the rod.
However, it is basically a 5-weight rod, hence, you can catch small fish as well in smaller streams.
The fly rod also features a fast-action blank so it can provide you with great performance and recovery especially in windy conditions while having stiffness. Although a very newbie may find it tough to manage, pro anglers will love using it.
However, you will also have 2 up-lock reel seat that offers easy fixing of the reel to the rod. In addition, it will get you a high-quality cork handle so you can enjoy great grip and comfortable use.
Pros:
- Carbon fiber offers durability and flexibility.
- Length enables you to catch bigger fish in a bigger water body.
- Weight enables you to catch smaller fish in a smaller waterbody.
- Fast action offers great performance in windy conditions.
- It Can be broken down into 4 pieces for easy portability.
- It Comes with a rod tube for protection.
Cons:
- Not ideal for beginners due to fast action blank.
- The dots do not line up correctly with the reel seat.
10.DRAGONtail Hellbender Zoom Tenkara
The fit and finish that Tenkara offers do not only make the rod performance-focused but also the best for all the beginners.
The fly fishing rod has been made with IM 12 graphite which makes the whole product durable and lightweight. Not just that, it also becomes a reason to offer sensitivity and flexibility that can trigger you to have it.
Moreover, the brand boasts it to have built it for bigger fish. Since it comes with 7:3 action referring to medium action, you will love to use it for chasing fishes like nymphs, streamers, dry flies, fat rainbows, brown trout, etc.
To add more, you will also be able to rig it up quickly around 3 minutes without any reel and hit the water. And this can be a great advantage for beginners.
Tenkara fly rod also comes with a telescopic zoom function so that you can fly fish on both bigger water bodies as well as narrower streams. This is one of the biggest benefits that you can get to enjoy.
You will be able to collapse the rod to 24 inches whereas it comes 12 feet long. Although, such length range is not recommended for beginners you can use it after gaining some experience.
As for the weight, the rod is 6w. So, you will not only be able to catch big fish but smaller ones as well.
However, there are many users who stated that it takes time to understand using it properly. It can be because of the length. So, it is advised that you use it after grabbing some skills in handling it properly.
Pros:
- High-quality graphite offers lightness, durability, and flexibility.
- Great for catching bigger fish due to medium action.
- Great for catching smaller fish due to weight.
- Easy to assemble in under 3 minutes.
- It Can be collapsed to 24 inches for portability.
- The telescopic zoom function lets you fish bigger and smaller-sized catch.
Cons:
- Not ideal for newbies because of the length.
- It may take time to learn to use it properly.
Flying Fishing Rods Buyer’s Guide
Bamboo
A kind of material that holds a special place in the fishing rod industry since the oldest rods used to be made of bamboo. Bamboo is popular for slow casting action as well as refined presentations that require more maintenance. Albeit it comes with a faster recovery rate comparing to fiberglass, yet it tends to be slower than that of carbon fiber material. When battling fish, the material offers a unique experience making it a better pick. However, it is not recommended for beginners but can make an ideal choice for pros. Since it cannot be completely machined, the material can be pricier than the others.
Fiberglass
Since the material is both durable and flexible, it can be a perfect alternative to traditional material bamboo. The rods made of fiberglass are great for casting small streamers, small dry flies as well as dry dropper rigs. It features broad flexing slow action similar to bamboo and can lack the degree of sensitivity. Although, fiberglass is lighter than bamboo it’s a bit heavier than graphite by 0.1 ounces. However, fiberglass rods are recommended for those newbies who are on a tight budget since they are very reasonable to grab.
Graphite
The latest and the most popular rods are available in graphite. They can be a perfect pick during extreme weather conditions such as strong wind and great for throwing hopper dropper rigs or heavy nymphs. Speaking more of graphite, it is lighter than most of the other light materials and can produce a very precise cast.
Besides, the material is also found to offer sturdiness, durability while being extremely sensitive. Moreover, such rods can be excellent when using a heavy fly line to cast a long distance. Not just that, you will also find it has amazing elasticity that makes many anglers prefer graphite over other materials. Nowadays, most of the manufacturers are pushing the length limit of the rods that come in 10 to 14 feet long so it can help in the development of the rods.
Nano-silica resin
You will be able to explore more benefits of graphite with the rods that have nano-silica resin in them. The manufacturers add hundreds of nano-silica particles to the resin for filling up the gaps between cross-sections of fiber. As a result, the technology ensures lightness, strength, and responsiveness of the fishing rod.
Rod action
It refers to the straight reflection of how broad the rod will bend when you will cast. It is important that you keep your level of expertise in mind to decide the suitable action for yourself. In general, 3 types of rod actions are found coming with both pros and cons.
Slow action
The most flexible action that has been engineered for the anglers who want to make a short, gentle, and precise cast is basically required on rivers or small streams. The flexibility of the rod will let you have better control of your line that will help increase precision. Albeit such action is a bit tough to control on the backcast but it is very forgiving if you are not very skilled. So, if you are a newbie, you can go with a slow action rod because it generating slower speed.
Medium action
Such rods come with low blank stiffness as well as strength to cast long distances and handle bigger fish. So basically, they cannot cast longer distances as they do not generate high line speed. That said, the line speed can be very forgiving.
Not just that, they bend near the middle and load quickly that helps boost the flexibility so it can make precise roll casts and quick range. As a result, they are able to create an amazing presentation with nymphs, streamers, dry flies that make the rods pretty versatile. If you are a newbie who wants a rod that will be easier to learn and control, then medium action rods can be the best.
Fast action
Fast action rod is also called a tip-flex rod that allows for the more extended cast since it has the most built-in stiffness with a bit of flexibility. It’s the stiffness that basically makes them ideal for extreme weather conditions like windy days. Not just that, they also let you have great control over the loops of the line. However, it’s essential to have correct techniques and timings for handling fast action rods. Hence, it’s not recommended for beginners but for pros.
Weight
Fly fishing rod weight comes with a scale measurement ranging from 1w to 12w. The rod’s weight should match the fly line. The rule of thumb says that the heavier the rod will weigh, the bigger the waterbody and the fish that you would like to be after. However, you should also keep the weather condition in mind as well as the weight of the rod.
Below 4w rods- You can expect to catch small streams only with a shorter distance cast.
From 4w to 6w rods- The range also covers small fish such as trout or panfish with a relatively short distance in a small stream.
From 7w to 10w rods- You can use the rod for both small and medium-sized fish such as steelhead or salmon almost in any waterbody.
11w and above- The rod will be perfect for bigger fish such as large bass and whatnot. Besides, the range is great for saltwater fishing as well as lakes.
However, since you are new to fly fishing, it will be wise to go with a rod that weighs around 4w to 6w. Because you won’t be fishing the sea, will you? You can upgrade the weight as you gather experience.
Length
Fly fishing rod comes in length ranging from 6 feet to 15 feet. It is recommended that avoid the rods that are below 7 feet or above 10 feet since they are regarded as extreme. To be on the safe side, you can go with rods that are 8 to 9 feet long if the weight is from 4w to 8w.
Below 7 feet: The shortest in the range, these rods are perfect for short cast in any restricted space. You will find them coming in 2 pieces. However, they are not ideal for newbies.
7 feet to 8 feet: The rods are pretty easy to throw that makes them very popular. They are available in 2 pieces and are perfect for fishing in small water bodies.
8 feet to 9 feet: The range that has the fly fishing rods for beginners. You will find them super easier to throw. And they are also able to keep the line above the vegetation on the backcast. These rods usually come in 2-piece, 3-piece, and 4-piece option.
9 feet to 10 feet: The range has such rods that help enhance the line mending. Besides, they are also able to catch bigger fish in larger water bodies.
10 feet to 12 feet: Such rods have been constructed for casting long distances and for saltwater fishing in a wider and open waterbody.
12 feet to 15 feet: The range having the longest rods which are used for the open water body. However, these rods are specially for pros and experienced anglers.
Other considerations
Fish species
You must keep in mind what kind of fish you would want to catch before you get yourself a rod. If you are after trophy bass, then you might need a rod that can pull in heavy fish consistently. The material of the rod also plays an essential role here. Meanwhile, if you are after smaller fish like panfish, then you can opt for a graphite rod that can serve you well.
Level of expertise
Being a newbie, you will need a slow action rod since it is easier to use. However, if you think you are a newbie but have gathered enough experience, then you may enjoy a faster action as well. That said, you will still need to think about the kind of fish you will be catching.
Portability
If your excitement is making you travel a lot, then you may have to think of the weight and size of the rod for your travel. Make sure you get one that can be broken down into 3 to 4 pieces so that you can carry it easily. Also, ensure the weight of the rod in this case.
Fly Fishing Rods Maintenance
To maintain the rod properly, you must know how to clean it properly. It basically banks on whether you are fishing in saltwater and freshwater. Saltwater can be corrosive in nature whereas freshwater is the opposite. However, it does not matter where you’re using the rod, you must clean it thoroughly once in a while.
Firstly, you have to take the rod apart by breaking it down into sections. Wipe the whole rod with a sponge using a soapy water solution. It will be great if you use warm water in such cases since it will help prevent heat damage.
Then, check it for any kind of damage, crack or groove. Spot the place of the damage and keep a note so you can take the rod for repair.
After that, wipe the ferrules to shoo away the dirt and grime by using a small cloth.
Lastly, oil the ferrules using a lubricant for keeping them in good shape.
Make sure to leave the rod to dry it out fully. Better to place it on a rack if you want to avoid unwanted bends which can be caused by placing it against a hard surface.
Fly Fishing Rods FAQs
Q: What is the modulus?
A: Modulus refers to the graphite fiber’s stiffness to weight ratio that runs the rod’s length. Although there is a rule of thumb that says, the higher the modulus, the better the rods. But, that is not very true. Besides the modulus of graphite, there are other factors that determine the performance of a rod as well such as the strength of fiber, the durability of resin, and the amount of fiber used.
Q: Which is the better fly rod material: fiberglass or graphite?
A: Fiberglass rods tend to be very low-cost. However, they lack a degree of sensitivity. In such cases, Composite rods that comprise a graphite shell and fiberglass core make an ideal choice as you will get the benefit of both the material.
Meanwhile, graphite offers lightness as well as amazing sensitivity making it a reason to use the fishing rod. However, such material can be brittle and a little shock can cause damage as well. So, it actually depends on your preference and the con you are willing to forgive.
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