Fly Fishing Rods
Choosing A Fly Fishing Rod
Choosing which fly fishing rod to purchase from amongst the wide and varied fly fishing rods available to the modern angler is not an easy task for even the most skillfull amongst us. We hope that the article below helps you in your decision and that, as a result, have a wonderful days fishing.
Beginners in fly fishing often make the mistake of buying the wrong fly fishing rod. If the rod is unsuited to them and wrong for the type of fishing they wish to do it is likely that they will eventually adapt to using it. Sadly this result will mean that they never manage to reach their optimium level of skill. Therefore it is considered sensible to seek some good advice before a purchase is made. Other people may opt to buy a small number of fly fishing rods of various sizes etc. In this case it is likely that the individual will eventually settle to using one particlular rod in preference to others. This is a common occurence with most anglers having their favorites. However the beginner will, possibly without knowing it, have settled upon the correct rod for the style of fishing that they do. In this case also it could still be beneficial to seek progfessional advice , if only to reassure you that everything is in order.
Fly fishing rods can be made from any of a number of different materials including the more traditional split cane and modern glass fibre or carbon fibre. Although the most modern materials have many advantages over the traditional fly fishing rods are required to be very flexible and you may be surprised to learn that glass fibre and carbon fibre rods can often prove to be more fragile than you would think. It is therefore of the uppermost importance that you take great care of your rods! In general you will require a rod that is both flexible and light, this will help you to develop the best casting techniques.
Looking at the actual grip of the fly fishing rod is also, very much, dependent the location chosen and the style of fishing to be used. With the much shorter rods it is generally accepted that cork will should be the prefered material in preference to a rubber grip. This may appear an old fashioned stance but smaller rods will have an equally short grip area and using cork affords the angler a sure grip. On larger fly fishing rods rubber is perfectly acceptable as the grip area is much larger.
When choosing a fly fishing rod consideration should also be given to the other fittings. You should always be looking to save weight but not at the expense of quality. The reel seat should therefore be of the two ring type which, while being light, also allows for more area for the hand grip. Here you have the choice of using either two sliding rings or a sliding ring and fixed butt cap.
Care should be taken to consider the actual area you will be fishing. On a large loch with calm still water surrounded by low lying flat ground the choice on which rod to use is wide. You may use a large rod and catch as many fish as with a shorter one. However, if you wish to gain a swift action on your casting a short wand is advisable. However it is rather more obvious which rod is best for use on a small burn (stream) with steep high banks surrounded by large trees and bushes. Your choice is really restricted to a short rod of around two metres in length as you will, most probably, be side-casting and a longer fly rod would simply end up getting caught on the bank. When using other casting methods the use of a shorter fly fishing rod will help you avoid any over hanging branches.
In future articles we will be looking at fly fishing rod accessories such as which reel to use and what tackle is best for salmon or trout etc. We will need to have a larger section to cover the multitude of flies that are available and discuss which fly is best for which job. So please call back soon to see how this section has developed.
Other articles about fishing in Scotland and fly fishing that may be of interest:
Fishing In Scotland
An in-depth look at the popular pastime of fishing in Scotland.
Fishing Seasons In Scotland
An introduction to the seasons of Scotland, the weather and the fishing season for trout and salmon.
Choosing A Fly Fishing Rod
A short article about fly fishing rods that may be beneficial to both beginners and seasoned anglers.
What Is The Best Gear For Fly Fishing?
A look at the equipment and accessories available and what should be considered for best personal safety.
Fly Fishing Waders: A Look At Breathable Waders
As technology moves forward anglers take advantage of every edge they can get I believe these waders should be considered essential.
Essential Equipment: Fly Fishing Flies
A look at the fly fishing fly, how it works, fly fishing fly patterns and much more.
A Look At Some Salmon Flies
A selection of images showing the trusty salmon fly. To view enlargements just click the thumbnails.
A Look At Some Traditional Fly Fishing Flies
A selection of some of the many traditional flies available to the modern angler.
Wild Salmon Vs. Farmed Salmon
A brief look at the unfair battle of the wild Atlantic Salmon against the corporately supported farmed salmon.
Choosing Salmon Fishing Gear
A look at some of the many things you should consider before and during the purchase of salmon fishing gear.
Salmon Fishing on the River Girvan
A look at salmon fishing on the River Girvan and the wonderful Blairquhan Estate.
Sea Fishing in Scotland
A look at the sport of sea fishing including a few very important tips
Saltwater Fishing
A collection of general saltwater fishing articles not directly relevant with Scotland but somewhat applicable.
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