All-inclusive is good. There are plenty of situations where making one decision is preferable to making a handful of decisions. Add in the fact that all-inclusive usually means you’re getting a deal along the way, and it is definitely a route worth pursuing.
When shopping for fly fishing gear, rod and reel kits are a legitimate all-inclusive option for those looking for a new outfit.
Thanks to many major angling companies, pre-assembled fly fishing outfits are no longer seen only as entry level gear soon to be outgrown. Getting all you need so that you can go fly fishing from a box is a legitimate way to go. While such a purchase might be right for someone new to the sport, it doesn’t mean that she’ll be compromising. Fly fishing kits work. For a number of anglers and a variety of circumstances, such an all-inclusive box of gear is the perfect solution.
Here are three reasons why you should consider “fly fishing from a box”:
You’re New
There is a certain intimidation factor that comes with opening a catalog or walking into a fly shop. The rod, reel, and line are all significant purchases. And they have to work together well. And then they have to be assembled. Veteran fly fishers take for granted that knots, retrieval hands, and line weights are second nature.
A kit-based fly fishing outfit from a reputable brand is a quick, painless, and affordable way to get into the sport. Some anglers might want to upgrade to something premium or specialized after a season or two. But most will inevitably keep what they learned on and what they’re comfortable with in their rotation.
You’re Diversifying
Everyone could use another trout rod. A different length, another line weight, or an action that is a slight change of pace from what you’re used to. A backup to keep in the car wouldn’t be a bad idea, either. Or, you may be a die-hard trout angler that wants to dabble in bass, salmon, or saltwater. Dabbling is hard to do when the bill for the appropriate gear starts inching towards four digits.
In either scenario, having the simplicity and value of a well-curated kit tics all the appropriate boxes. While these outfits are certainly fishable on their own, they give seasoned anglers a quick option for branching out from what they’re used to doing.
You’re Proselytizing
The only reason better than having a spare rod and reel for yourself is having a spare rod and reel to lend someone who you bring fishing with you. By and large, any preassembled outfit you buy is going to be balanced quite well. Moreover, the vast majority of them stay within a pretty tight margin of accessibility. Having a backup that functions as a friend’s gateway into the sport is a great investment. Plus, if they’re hooked they can easily hop into something affordable themselves.
For years I’ve sung the praises of Redington’s kits. Each component from every kit I’ve used has been high quality and perfectly fishable. I’m a stickler for good line, and Redington prespools their reels with RIO lines. This season they’ve expanded the offerings to include Wrangler ($249) and Original ($199) kits to go along with their Field Kits ($389-$529). They also offer more entry-level packages, including some that are perfect for kids.