Rods

   Getting started in fly fishing is fairly easy. You need a good fly rod. They either come with, or need to be loaded with backing and fly line.
   Most good sporting good stores or fly shops have machines that can get it done. If you buy from them, the service is often free. And there are many, many kits on the market that come with everything you need – ready to go.

     Getting a good rod is key. If you are just starting out you may not want to spend a great deal on a rod until you see if you like the sport – where you will fish - and how often you will go.

   Fly rods come in ‘weights’. Light weight rods are 2 and 3 weights. They are good for small fish like brook trout or any place where the fish are less than a pound.
    Next are 4 and 5 weight rods. These are pretty good mid range rods. I have two, and they are perfect for most trout.
   Next are 6 and 7 weight rods. These are for a little larger trout. They tend to be stiffer rods and can help you cast a little further.

     In California you might even need an 8, 9 or 10 weight rods. In places like Lake Davis outside Tahoe, or Pyramid Lake outside Reno, NV people often catch 10 to 20 pound trout.
    You need a heftier rod for that kind of fishing. The weight and length of the rod is printed on the rod itself, usually just above the ‘handle’ – above where the reel attaches.

      Rods also come in various lengths. Beginners, or people fishing in tight quarters might like a 7 ½ foot rod. Many rods are nine feet long. They also come in various numbers of segments. Some rods are two-piece rods. Some break down in as many as seven pieces.
     Two piece rods offer better “feeling” and stability. Seven piece rods break down into small sections, which are great for packing in a backpack or in a suitcase. But each joint means less flexibility and ‘feeling’ for the angler.

        Rods vary in price too. You can find complete kits for as little as 25 bucks, with high end rods selling in excess of  12 hundred dollars.
     I had two cheap rods that I use as ‘instructional’ rods for newcomers to learn on.
   One time, my wife was casting with a cheap rod and one section flew off in the middle of the cast and landed in the river. Needless to say she now uses my 300 hundred dollar Loomis 3 weight.
I have a pair of St Coix rods that cost about 150 bucks each. I really like them.

     I have seen more and 3 – 5 weight rods for 60 to 80 dollars at several Sporting goods stores.
  One advantage to using a guide service is that they usually provide all the equipment you need for the day – including rods and reels – which means you can try a few out and see what you like.