9 Best Fly Fishing Rods
Joshua Keaton
Fly fishing is considerably the purest form of fishing. There are specific complexities that make fly fishing unique, amongst other techniques. For better understanding, fly fishing uses a rod and a line with a lightweight artificial lure that imitates a fly prey. Just by definition itself, one could tell the wonders of fly fishing, and why it has become a go-to form of fishing.
For starters, fly fishing could be very confusing. There are things you need to take into consideration: the rod to use or the flies that work best within your fishing environment.
I clearly remembered the good ol' days of learning how to fly fishing. I was standing dubious about the fact whether I'm using the right gears and equipment. It was challenging, but fulfilling as I go along and snap my first fish.
The success in fly fishing is not dependent on the equipment you use; it's on the technique of continually switching places and getting familiar with your fishing environment, and make sure the fish bites your flies.
You can grab what type of fly rods and flies, then tackle your best to catch. However, life is made simpler in today's generation, feeding you with top-notch features that could make your fly fishing activities efficient and productive. Hence, in this article, I'll highlight my top recommended fly fishing rods to help you choose the perfect equipment -- both for starters and experts.
9 Best Fly Fishing Rods
1. Redington Classic Trout
2. Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod
3. AnglerDream Archer Fly Fishing Rod
4. Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
5. Wild Water Fly Fishing 9 Foot, 4-Piece, 5/6 Weight Fly Rod
6. Sougayilang Fly Fishing Rod Reel Combos with Lightweight Portable Fly Rod and CNC-machined Aluminum Alloy Fly Reel
7. Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
8. Goture Fly Fishing Rod
9. Wakeman Charter Series Fly Fishing Combo with Carry Bag
Redington Classic Trout
Fly fishing gear is a saturated market. The more specialty the item brings, the more expensive it gets. Luckily, we have the Redington Classic Trout that combines specialized features and affordability.
Designed especially for trout anglers, the Redington Classic provides a balance needed for technical spring creeks, yet able to withstand big river and boat fishing. It weighs 0.16 ounces; hence, it reduces fatigue during a long day fishing. The rod also varies in length, ranging from 7'6" to 9'0".
Pros
- Perfect for beginners
- Versatile
- Easy to load for short casts
- Smooth casting performance
- Good in small and medium-sized streams
- Lightweight
Cons
- Poor long casting support
Our Take
If there's one thing best describes the Redington Classic Trout, it's "remarkably easy" to load -- both short and long casts. The rod efficiently manages to cast between 20 to 45-foot ranges -- where most fishing takes place. If you're a beginner, the Redington Classic Trout's smooth performance makes fishing a walk in the park. It's sensitive and not too stiff, giving you that sense of timing and rhythm, especially if you're still learning the sport.
The rod's moderate action makes it perfect for technical spring creeks. Meanwhile, trying it on big rivers and boat fishing, the Redington Classic Trout gets the job done. If you're someone who prefers fishing with light 6X and 7X tippets, you'll love the Redington's soft tip. Its extra absorption brought by the rod's soft tip protects your tippet, which keeps the fish from breaking off.
The rod's structure and components perform way beyond its price point. Whether your fishing in small or medium-sized streams -- or whatever tactics you wish to perform -- don't be afraid, the Redington Classic Trout will surely deliver.
Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod
The Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod is another masterpiece when it comes to fly fishing. It's made with IM8 graphite that delivers maximum sensitivity and durability. It's a fast action rod, which is perfect for longer casts and windy conditions.
The rod includes four compartment tube for safekeeping, making sure that each rod section is protected. Portability-wise, the Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod sports an adjustable shoulder strap for worry-free bushwhacking and long approaches. It's designed with a dark gray color with a 5 to 8 weight variations.
Pros
- Versatile
- Fast Action
- Durable; Could withstand the test of time
- Portability
Cons
- No warranty
- The tip is a bit of challenging sometimes
Our Take
The Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod is another perfect equipment to add to your fly fishing artillery. This rod from Tailwater Outfitters delivers a service promise that targets precision for both professional and beginners alike. It's sturdy enough to hold prolonged battling, yet sensitive enough to provide accuracy.
What standouts to me the most is the rod's convenient features. You can break down the rod into four pieces, or whatever fishing style you wish to improvise that fits your trout fishing techniques. Experience-wise, there's a sense of effortlessness when using Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod in most of my fishing trips.
I appreciate versatility when it comes to rods, gears, and reels. And, this rod does unique fishing setups entirely. Whether I'm fishing near shores or by boat, the rod's length, precision, casting, and undeniably incredible power, makes the most fishing activity a success.
The Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod enables you to catch up to 20 pounds of fish. I think what makes this possible is the rod's ability to perform well in whatever fishing setups. There are several weights you can choose from -- 8, 5, and 3 scales.
The rod delivers impeccable fast-action performance -- probably one of the best in the market today. It's light, yet durable enough to withstand extreme battling. While writing this article, I've sorted and used other rods I've purchased in the past months, and have placed this rod in a compartment for quite some time. And guess what? There's no rust, tattering, or whatever factor that slows down its performance. The IM8 Graphite secures the rod to stand through the test of time. Just makes sure to dismantle the rod after use and place it in its compartment tubes.
AnglerDream Archer Fly Fishing Rod
Made with Graphite IM10 and 36T Carbon Fiber Blank, the AnglerDream Archer Fly Fishing Rod is super light, flexible, and delivers high tensile strength.
This rod from AnglerDream is another fast action that supports a wide range of abilities and techniques. This features a Hard Chrome Stripping Guide and Stainless Snake Guide that enable the rod to stand against corrosion.
The AnglerDream Archer Fly Fishing Rod sports a AAA Grade Cork Grip Handle that makes it highly sensitive, accurate, and light in battling fish.
Pros
- Fast Action
- Good performance
- Super Strong Case
- Affordable
Cons
- Quality issues
Our Take
Performance-wise, the AnglerDream Archer Fly Fishing Rod delivers. It's fast, accurate, and holds good tension -- all the characteristics you're looking for a fly rod. I think its AAA Grade Cork Grip Handle does amazing wonders, especially if you're a beginner.
The rod loads and shoots smoothly. Whether you prefer short or long casts, the AnglerDream Archer Fly Fishing Rod includes a variety of lines ranging from 7'6" to 9'. However, I prefer to use this rod on small and medium-sized streams; beyond that, I can't really tell.
This rod has great elasticity, which is essential for a fast action rod. It's pretty easy to assemble, with a standout and extremely durable case. For its price point, it's definitely a good steal!
Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
The Fenwick AETOS features fast-recovering, modern high-performance tapers, and lightweight fly rod. This rod from Fenwick is a 4-section, 5-weight fishing rod embellished with deep blue color and carbon flake accents. It also sports an extensive diameter gunsmoke stripper guides and double foot gunsmoke snake guides.
To better is performance support, the Fenwick AETOS features an aluminum anodized double uplock reel seat. It has an AAA-grade cork handle for a secure and comfortable grip. Once purchased, the rod comes in a bag for safe transportation.
Pros
- Stylish
- Great Accuracy
- Fast Action
- Budget-Friendly
Cons
- Guide's a bit off
- Poor Warranty Support
Our Take
This Fenwick AETOS Fly Rod is one of my top favorites. It has wowed me many times, using it in multiple fishing trips and locations. What sold me the most is its line speed -- casting the rod over 55-feet was a breeze. Since its a fast action rod, I could tackle right away. The 3-weight was spot on, though its 5-weight is a bit off for about two to three degrees (probably because it's not centered position).
For a rod priced less than $900, I'm astonished on how easy and casting is, giving me undeniably one of the best rod performance out there. Aesthetic-wise, the rod is beautiful to hold. It's deep blue color and carbon flake accent finish fits my style the most.
Comparing it to some of the rods I've used, this Fenwick Aetos Fly Rod competes well when it comes to the sensitivity. Accuracy was never an issue. However, I noticed a problem with its guide alignment. I have to mark its center position to ensure a stable fit. Though, I can see this as a cosmetic issue.
If you're looking for an accurate and fast performing fly fishing rod, intending to keep it neat and stylish, then Fenwick AETOS Fly Rod is the go-to product.
Wild Water Fly Fishing 9 Foot, 4-Piece, 5/6 Weight Fly Rod
This Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Package includes Wild Water Fly Fishing 9', 4-Piece, 5/6 Weight Fly Rod, a Rod Case, Fly Reel, a Fly Box, Wild Water's Tapered Monofilament and Wild Walter's fly fishing accessories. Wild Water's 32 "Hard Case will hold all your accessories, including the fly box with flies, a spare leader, a retractable zinger, and a nipper/nail knot tool. The fly rod has a machined aluminum reel seat with double lock rings, and laser-etched butt cap, 7" long, Western-style cork handle with compressed cork accent rings, stainless steel stripper guide with silicon carbide rings, stainless single foot guides and tip-top. Each section is 28" long. Rod weight is 4.4 ounces. The hard rod tube case, with pouch and side storage pouch with zipper. The fly reel, 85mm diameter spool, die-cast aluminum, adjustable disc drag. Comes preinstalled with chartreuse, WF5-F, weight-forward 5, floating fly line, 20# orange backing, and 9' 5X tapered monofilament leader. All Wild Water fly reels are easily changed from left to right hand retrieve. Reel will come in left hand retrieve.
Pros
- Perfect for beginners
- The case makes it easier for you to store things
- Handy
Cons
- Reel scrapes against itself
Our Take
This product goes above expectations. I thought buying a cheap fly rod would result in cheap results. I was blown away, the rods are nice, the reel works flawlessly except it just "scrapes" itself while reeling it, not many in the kit, but it comes with what the ad says. The package itself is made with quality and is much better than other entry rod combos I have used.. It has a medium action and good feel in your hand. The reel is good, and I'd say the drag works well, and I've never had a problem with it. Fly case comes filled with nine flies, all of which appear well made. The carry case is also very nice and high quality. The line nipper with a nail knot tying tool and hook eye cleaner helps me a lot in changing and attaching my fly easily.
Perfect for beginners with an excellent price, a guide, and accessories. Great sturdy reel and rod with also a good traveling case couldn't be more pleased. My expectations were surpassed. I would not hesitate to order more products from this company and will quickly recommend to any friends interested in fly fishing. If you're new to fly fishing and on the fence about which kit to get you started, order this one now. You won't regret it.
Sougayilang Fly Fishing Rod Reel Combos with Lightweight Portable Fly Rod and CNC-machined Aluminum Alloy Fly Reel
The Fly Fishing Combo includes one Fly Rod(9 ft, 5/6 weight, four pcs rod), one Fly Reel (size:5/6), 100FT Fly Line, backing and leader, one rod case, one fly box, 12pcs flies, spare leader, zinger and nipper, one Carrier Case, which is very easy to carry around. The rod has four sections designed with medium-fast action fly fishing rods; fly rods are made from carbon fiber that durable and extra lightweight, Metal adjustable fishing reels seat, texture are also simple and firm.Mid flex IM8 graphite design, aluminum reel seat, stainless steel stripper guide with SiC ring, stainless steel single foot snake guides and hook keeper. The 7" western-style grip made with high-quality cork and compressed cork trim rings helps to cast accuracy, avoiding fatigue. This fly reel is made of CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy; larger CNC hollow design makes the reel lighter than ordinary ones.2+1 Ball Bearings and 1:1 Gear Ratio, One-way roller bearing engages drag in one direction thanks to its strong all-aluminum construction.
Pros
- Durable and convenient
- Everything fits nicely in the case
Cons
- Has quality Check issues
Our Take
I purchased this and wasn't sure what to expect. The reel is very good quality for the price, and everything else was a bonus. I am totally pleased with this setup! I am really impressed that this combo includes everything that I need to start fly fishing. It has a convenient zippered case that helps to carry everything whenever I go fishing.
This is a killer freshwater fly reel for multi-species when fishing in rivers, lakes, streams, and creeks. It is ideal for all-around fly fishing species such as trout, grayling, salmon, and other predatory fish. Its comfortable cork handles give accuracy and avoid fatigue. This makes me feel like I'm already a professional doing it. The flies are exactly like the picture inside the included fly box. One braided leader loop and one 6x leader was also included. Everything fits nicely in the included case. The medium action design of the fly rods have mid-flex, and it suits a wide range of abilities and techniques and especially great for the fly fishing starters.
You can't beat the price and quality. Just try to match another carbon fiber rod and aluminum reel and see what the price is. The warranty is just a cherry on top. It is highly recommended!
Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
Building upon the Fenwick tradition of developing the highest quality and performance rods on the market, the Fenwick AETOS 5 Weight Fly Fishing Rod features fast-recovering, high-performance modern tapers, artfully crafted with a lightweight feel. Available in freshwater, saltwater, switch, and Spey models, this fly fishing rod delivers ideal performance for any location. This 4-section, the 5-weight fishing rod comes in deep blue color with carbon flake accents, large-diameter gunsmoke stripper guides, and double foot gunsmoke snake guides. It features an anodized aluminum double up lock reel seat, as well as an AAA-grade cork handle for a secure and comfortable grip. A cloth-covered rod tube and bag are included for simple and secure transportation.
Pros
- The best choice of the low price rods
- Recommended for beginners
- Well-made and versatile
Cons
- None
Our Take
I wanted a fast action fly rod that I could use for trout and Shad without breaking the bank and had a decent warranty. The rod wowed me so far. This rod is a beautiful blue, has excellent cork, is easy casting and super accurate. If you have a good casting form, it's practically effortless. It floats the line down gently, straightens out the tippet, and kisses the fly down like a real bug. It has never been broken, sensitivity is great, accurate and delicate mends nicely set hooks and protects tippets as well. This rod is well-made, light in hand, and very versatile. But its real strength is in the delicacy and accuracy of presentation it offers at close to middle distances. It shoots line well and has held up well to some decent tree snags while walking through the brush. For the cost, it's a more than suitable trout rod at a discount price.
If you are looking for the best rod in the $200 or under category, this is the rod for you. It's a wonderful fly rod, a super value, and very well made. The bottom line, I love this rod! I highly recommend it!
Goture Fly Fishing Rod
This product is a perfect gift and ideal for any beginner or fishing lovers. It also has a one year warranty and lifetime repairing warranty. As a professional fishing tackle supplier, they offer a 100% "No Hassle" guarantee for one year. This product also has a high balancing performance and customized burl wood insert in the reel seat rather than aluminum insert like other brands. It is super light and sturdy because of carbon fiber blank construction makes the rod at least a 20% increase and at least 20% lighter in weight significantly. This is widely used in freshwater or saltwater 4wt slow action suitable for small trout and sunfish in small streams; 5wt medium action suitable for general trout in larger streams and rivers. 7wt/8wt medium-fast action is suitable for bass & salmon in saltwater.
Pros
- One year warranty and has Lifetime Repairing warranty
- Widely used in freshwater or saltwater
Cons
- None
Our Take
This is a great fly fishing rod for me. I used it when I was just starting to learn fishing, and it helped me a lot. It comes with a carrying case that makes it easier to carry whenever I want to go fishing; that's why it is travel-friendly.
The cork handle is of good quality. Goture has made a good fly rod for the dedicated fly fisherman. The fit and finish for this rod are good to very good for a mass-produced rod. The handle and seat are top quality, the double up-locking seat, wood seat, and handle are comparable to some of my husband's more expensive rods. The snake foot guides and are finished in a matte color, which goes good with the black and gold wraps and medium brown finish. This is definitely a good looking rod out of the box.
But looks are not everything on a fly rod; performance is what rods are about. The action on this rod is slow and soft, which for a four wt rod can be desirable for certain situations. The soft action and slow speed of the rod using this configuration make the most delicate presentations possible, and this rod does this very well. Once a fish is on, the rod has enough backbone to get it to the net quickly. Overall, this is a rod that performs at the task it was designed for and performs it well. Check it out and see for yourself!
Wakeman Charter Series Fly Fishing Combo with Carry Bag
This starter kit includes everything you need to get rigged up and on the water. An 8 foot three-piece fly rod, graphite reel, fly line, tapered leader, and two flies are included. A high-quality carry bag is part of the set as we know how important it is to get your gear to the water safely and in good condition. A soft, EVA foam handle makes for a comfortable and secure grip. The rod has a fiberglass body, left hand retrieve reel, and a built-in hook keeper for safety. This easy casting 6/7 weight rod comes with suggested techniques for kids to get started on fly fishing. Designed for anyone who wants grown-up performance while they are perfecting their craft, giving this Wakeman Ultra Series Fly Combo Kit as a gift will make wonderful memories on the water!
Pros
- Good quality of fishing poles
- The carrying case makes it easy to transport
Cons
- No manuals for beginners
- Reels are easily broken
Our Take
A high-quality fishing rod is an important matter when fishing. Also, knowledge is required when using it. That’s why when you are new to things; you’ll be needing manuals. But the problem with this product is that there is no manual included in it. I thought that it could be hard for the beginners, so it needs an extra effort for this setup. When I first used it, I needed to surf the internet to find the steps on how to make it work. Great effort is also needed in order to understand it correctly since beginners do not have the background knowledge to it.
Although it lacks its basics, this rod is quite impressive - lots of great action with little effort. It is well constructed and really feels comfortable. The fishing pole is good because it has a flex and is also tough. Its reel has a simple drag system with about seven varying levels but only lasted two fishing trips. And the carrying case is a great bonus. Still, it may be because of the price that sometimes, the reel is easily broken. The product’s compactness enables it to be stored easily in the car, so it’s quite easy to transport it to farther places.
