Something that I love about fly rod conversations is how they vacillate between empirical and metaphysical. You can go from talking ounces and recovery speed to how it makes you feel in a matter of seconds.
It is just a fly rod. But if you fish, you know what I mean.
Not only is a rod a potentially significant expense, but it is what connects you to the fish. So while it isn’t what fly fishing is all about, it makes it possible.
Today I’m tacking five more questions onto my Fly Rod FAQ page. This is a running list of questions I’ve fielded and continue to field from people as I talk about the tangible and intangible aspects of the pinnacle piece of fly fishing gear.
Are imported fly rods garbage?
The short answer is no. The answer to make you think is: “Are all imported cars, watches, or suits the same?” There are a few factories in South Korea and China that crank out the vast majority of “imported” fly rod blanks. Sometimes they are finished overseas, and sometimes they are put together here in the USA. I fish with these blanks and think they’re great. In fact, this is a great way to get a rod that casts above its price point. But, as always is the case with anything, you can run into a bad egg.
Up-locking or down-locking reel seat?
An accurate answer requires more information. The positioning of the reel will impact the balance of the rod while casting. These days you’ll see down-locking reel seats on most Euro nymphing rods. This provides a counter-weight to a longer rod, ultimately reducing fatigue. That said, most reel seats are up-locking, moving the weight closer to your hand.
What is the benefit of a custom-built fly rod?
Unless you’re getting a hand-made bamboo rod, your custom rod is likely a glass or graphite blank that a rod builder finishes for you. You’ll have a say in the hardware and cosmetics. Also, a reputable builder will ensure that they’re put on with a precision and quality that will last. For a 9′ 5-weight, your result will be a personalized version of what you can get at the store. But a custom rod is a good route to go if you’re wanting something unusual or hard to find.
Is there is a right way and a wrong way to put a rod in a case?
I’d say that there is a better way to put a fly rod in a case. The two most fragile parts of a fly rod are the walls of the female ferrule and the tip. On a four-piece rod, it seems like the safest way to orient the pieces is as follows: Put the butt section in so that the end of the reel seat is what you see. Then, put the final three segments in the opposite way; or, female ferrule down. Another consideration is that you want to make sure that if your rod case or sock has sized compartments that you’re not shoving large guides into tight spaces.
What is your favorite fly rod?
That is a less serious version of “who is your favorite child?”. If we’re going by which rod I turn to the most, I’d have to say my Orvis T3. It is a medium action 8’6″ 5-weight. On all but the largest rivers, I’m confident in my ability to use it for delicate dry presentations and accurate streamer casts. It is sensitive, responsive, and can roll cast exceptionally well. Most of all, I’ve fished with it enough since 2002 that I don’t have to think about fishing with it when it is in my hand.
Want more questions and answers? Here is the full page of Fly Rod FAQs.