Fly Fishing Rod, Reel & Line

Fly Fishing 101

• What is Fly Fishing?  • Rod, Reel & Line  • Fly & Leader  • Tippets & Indicators

What is a rod? Rods enable you to get the line and the fly to the fish. Fly rods are usually 6-14 feet in length and made of Graphite, Bamboo or Fiberglass. They come in many different styles for the different taste of the person using it. Different fish require different rods. You would not use the same rod for Trout as you would for Tuna!

What is a fly reel? The reel serves many purposes. It holds the fly line on the reel, it acts as a weight to counterbalance the rod and most important it slows down the fish! Reels come in many different sizes depending on the species of fish and the rod that you are using. Most new reels are made from 1 piece of bar stock aluminum and machined to perfection. There are also reels made from a cast mold, these reels work well and are usually cheaper in price.

What is a fly line? Line is used to get the fly where it needs to be and enables you to bring the fish in. It is made of braided nylon with an outer layer slick PVC coating to make it travel easily. It is a very important component in fly fishing. There are a variety of fly lines out there for different applications. Fly line is weighted so that you may cast the fly a certain distance.