What to look for in a heavier weight rod?

[speechless33759]

I know that it really depends on the person using it, but using a 3 wt versus an 8 wt is totally different. What do most of you who do a lot of "big" fish fishing look for in a fly rod? A stiffer one? One with a fast tip? One with a more mid-flex to help load a heavy line?

Dear speechless,

I think we all look for something different.

My heavier rods are all fast action. It's nice to have the ability to make a false cast or two and shoot the line.

But that all depends on the fisherman. There are people who are quite successful who fish slow actioned rods in the heavier weights. It all depends on your personal preference.

Get out and cast some larger rods at fly shops and you will begin to get a feel for what rods trip your trigger.

Regards,
Tim Murphy

[FK]

A rod for 8wt is more medium weight rather than heavy weight (10-12) to my thinking. As was stated the type of action depends upon your casting style. The 8wt rods are very versitile and can cast fairly heavy flies and land most freshwater and light saltwater fish.

My personal preference is a fast action with flexible tip for short distance casts and the lower 2/3 of the blank fairly stiff for longer distance and lifting a nice fish.

We are fortunate today will all the great rod choices available.

Regards,
FK

[This message has been edited by FK (edited 19 February 2005).]

[Ray]

Heavier fish!

[lee s]

I kinda think you probably don't want to hear this but....we know a couple instructors and others who love slow rods and others of equal merit who swear by fast rods.
It has to be YOUR choice.
Fast or slow, they ALL give me fits!
...lee s.

[fcch]

Speechless,

As with any rod, ... To know which one is for you, you have to try them.

I like faster rods. On a typical day, when I'm stringing up for all types of water and presentations, I'll typically string up 3 XP's from 4 to 9 wts. Friends on the same water will have much slower rods.

We ALL have fun.

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Christopher Chin
Jonquiere Quebec

[LadyFisher]

I normally don't fish over an 8 wt. rod, and even then it can be really tiring - so I'm looking for one lighter in hand, well balanced, which can reach out for long distance as well as the possible shorter 30 or 40 ft cast as well. My personal choice is the Sage Xi2.

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LadyFisher, Publisher of
FAOL