Equipment Suggestions/Advice to an absolute beginner

FAOL Community Fly Anglers Online
1

Hello Folks… I live in Southeast Louisiana and I love fishing. I grew up fishing with my dad in the salt marsh areas casting lures…mostly red fish and speck rigs. I am totally new to fly fishing and I would like to get some input from experienced fly fishers on what to buy as an absolute beginner. I’m planning a trip to Colorado and plan to go fly fishing at some high mountain lakes & streams near Crested Butte.

Can you recommend a good beginner set up that I can grow with as I learn and get more experience. I want to be able to use this set up fishing in Colorado and fresh water fishing in Louisiana as well… Thanks!!!

2

Your probably going to get a lot of opinions on this one. My suggestion is to start at http://www.flyanglersonline.com/begin/101/ . Great information there.

Having never fished for redfish and specks, I’m not sure what rod weight would be suitable for them. Trout, anything from a 3 weight to a 6 weight would work. Reels for trout don’t really need to be that strong, more of a line storage facility, not sure with redfish and specks.

Whatever rod and reel you get, buy the very best line you can afford. A good line will make a bad rod cast nicer, and it makes a good rod a dream to cast.

Good luck in making your choices.

REE

3

Well, I’m certain you will get lots of opinions on this one.

I don’t know what your budget is like or what it is like to fish in Louisianna (that is, how big the fish), weather, wind conditions you will be fishing in etc. However, for colorado- and as a beginner - I would probably be directing you toward something lilke a Cabela’s combination kit (rod, line, reel)-- along the lines a a medium to fast rod, 9 ft. long, four piece, and probably a 5 wt or maybe a 6 wt. rod. This weight rod is pretty universal for trout. The Cabela’s gear is decent quality gear that you can use for a long time and then add to or upgrade as needed later on. ,

If you have the opportunity to go to a fly shop and demo a rod, reel and line — which you may be able to do on your vacation in Colorado – before you buy one, then that would be the best of all worlds. If you fish with a guide, they may have rods for you to use, if so, try them out and if you like them, then you have a basis for starting your shopping spree.

Along the same lines - but I am unaware of a combintation set up - is to look at something that Temple forks Outfitters or Echo Rods has to offer. Both compannies make nice rods – and again, look for the same rod length, wt, flex. You would purchase the reel seperately and I would be looking at a reel in the mid price range of $120 or so like a Pflueger TRion or Orvis Battenkill midarbor (both really the same reels) – adding in a weight forward floating line like the Rio Classic. Now you getting into the 300 to 400 price range. There are other rods and reels in this price range that are equally as good.

The Cabela gear, Echo and Temple Forks rods are all good and would give you many good years of service.

Further up the scale, you can start spending some serious money but at your level of experience, it probably isn’t necessary until you know what you are doing and what you will need in the way of your fishery. Thats when you start looking at Sage, Winston, etc. for rods and higher end reels. If you have never flly fished, you might look kind of silly showing up with super expensive (and great) gear but not know how to use it.

Good luck, looking forward to seeing what others recommend.

4

Like stated above…everyone has there own opinion. Here’s mine. For Colorado …8.6 to 9ft 4 or 5wt is probably a good choice for an all round rod. (it’s good almost any place) Double taper or weight forward floating line. First timer…I’d advise you to keep it sensable price wise. You can get a damn fine outfit for around $200, give or take a few bucks. There are combos available for less at Walmart, Cabelas and other places. St. Croix is one to look at. You can also find decent used stuff on here in the Gear for sale thread. Buying used is actually a pretty smart way to get nice gear. You can fish an entry lever set up, just as well as $1000 worth, so save your money on the gear and put it towards instruction. Your absolute best investment would be a lesson or two from a pro, or a days worth of guiding from a guide who likes to teach.

5

as soon as you can buy a copy of the Curtis Creek Manifesto. You must, you really must. It’s the best introduction to fly fishing ever. I read my copy at least once a year.

6

… and welcome from the Bitterroot Valley MT.

Boy, you join up and post a tall order the same day !!

I think orthoman had an excellent suggestion that you wait until you get to Colorardo, if you can, and find a fly shop that will let you demo a number of rods in different lengths, line weights, and actions. You might even get a free casting lesson from a shop that is looking to sell you a good outfit to get started.

I would probably recommend a 4 or 5 weight rod rather than a 6 for general trout fishing, especially if you are going to be on smaller rivers and streams and catching typical trouts, up to say 16-18", and it would do for lake settings as long as you can cast reasonably short distances sight fishing or casting to cruising fish. If you are going to be fishing smaller water with smaller flies for smaller fish in places that are not windy, a 3 weight might be just the ticket for you. Depending on how tall and strong you are, a 9’ rod may or may not work best for you. Personally, I like shorter rods in the 7’ to 8’ range, especially if you are going to get a 3 or 4 weight rod.

Ron made a couple good suggestions regarding reels and lines. If you are getting a trout rod, I think the Orvis BBS series of reels is about the best value out there. Rio lines are my choice, but that doesn’t mean they will be yours. I like Rio’s Selective Trout II if you can find them, either in weight forward or double taper - and if you find them they will most likely be on closeout for a good price. Inexpensive lines will get you started, but for not that much more you can get a line that will float higher and longer, clean up easier and better, and last longer given reasonable care.

John

7

Practically speaking, I’m not sure I agree with the advice to wait until you are in Colorado to buy your first outfit. If I were you, I’d try to do a little casting out in the back yard every day getting ready for the trip.

To be honest, there are alot of set ups that will work, you don’t need to be worried about getting the perfect one (cause it probably doesn’t exist). You don’t need to spend a ton to get a set up that will catch fish, spend what you can comfortably afford.

If your time in Colorado is going to be limited, you don’t want to spend all you time try to learn how to cast, you can do that at home. Spend your time in Colorado catching some fish.

8

My advise is to keep it simple for now. There’s a lot to learn, but you’re going to pick up knowledge over time, not in a few weeks.

For now, get a good starter rod/reel/line/leader combo. Several companies make these. Find a fly shop close to you to get advise and if you buy a combo from them, negotiate a lesson to get you started. Then buy Joan Wulff’s DVD, The Dynamics of Flycasting, and start practicing her lessons.

If you find that you like flyfishing, you can start making investments in more equipment. If not, you can sell the combo and DVD to cut your losses.

9

My thoughts exactly. You’ll also be easily intimidated into spending more money that way. Your on a fishing trip…so fishing, not shopping should be the focus. Save the shopping for when the weather sucks.

I gave my thoughts on what the best entry level rod would be…that would cover most situations pretty well. You need to decide on how much you are willing to spend. I used nothing but a 5wt rod for three years…and fishing 100+ a lot days per year. It handled just about everything I could get my hook into except chinook and large steelhead (worked for shakers and Pinks just fine). A 5wt is still my main stay rod for most water. I have more than a dozen rods now but it’s still the 5wt that I NEVER leave behind.

Remember also that it’s the FLY LINE that is the most important investment in an outfit. Don’t go cheap on that part. Something in the lines of a Cortland 444 or that level of quality is a good place to start. Cheaper lines do work …as it’s all in the caster…but it’s the line that makes the biggest difference in how a rod will feel.

10

Garrison, welcome to FAOL. As stated by Ron Eagle Elk ( REE ) registering and a tall order all in one day wow. You got good advise from all concerned here, you will find this to be one big family and willing to help. As for you request for info, all was very good. Trout where you will be fishing require a 3 to 5 wt. rod and reel, reds and specks will require heaverier tackle. I have fished for reds and specks myself but not with a flyrod. Good luck to you fishing for trout, when you return home give the local fish a try, bass, crappie ( sac-a-lait ) and bream a try on the trout rig and get heavier tackle for the specks and reds. Take care, John.

11

Hi Garrison, and WELCOME aboard from Maine. Although I have lived down south I have never fished LA. If you have friends with fly fishing outfits ask them if you can try theirs. Trouts Unlimited clubs would be a great source of info. Any FFF club will be very helpful.
I’m sure you’re axcious to get your own gear, but I would recomend to keep it simple, at first.
And like many have stated, 5wt is a great beginning, and all around set-up.
Just remember, this isn’t rocket science, it’s FISHING. Have a great time with whatever you decide.

12

G,

I would cast my vote for a 9’ 6wt medium-fast action rod with a reasonably priced large arbor reel and a decent drag. I would go with a Scientific Anglers “headstart” fly line. This is an great all around fly line that will handle the cold water trout you will be after, and is stiff enough that it won’t wilt in the LA warm water. It is a line that will load the rod well even for throwing bigger (than typical trout size) bugs for bass, bream and those “sac-au-lait” youz gots in da bayou. I would look at the Cabela’s Three Forks combos or the LL Bean Quest combos. Don’t spend a ton of money on the front side. You will need to save some $$$ for flies, leaders, tippet and such. Another goog combo to consider for alittle more cash would be the Orvis Clearwater 906-4 midflex.

aa

13

I have to agree with the “buy it at home” approach. You will be out here to fish, not shop. Bass Pro Shops will build you a combo for any rod they sell. I like a 5w for most stuff I do. a 9’ is a bit long for the smaller creeks and streams, so I would recommend something around 8’. TFO is one of the best values in a rod out there, in my opinion. You can spend more money, but you don’t need to, to catch fish.

14

I agree with the folks that suggest getting an inexpensive outfit now (I?d suggest a 5 or 6 weight) and have at it. Start terrorizing some local LA bluegill and small bass in freshwater. It?ll get you casting, and you?ll learn about the gear like leaders and tippets, knots, and fishing different types of flies. A 9 foot 5 or 6 weight would be great in Colorado, but would also be a good freshwater rod for small bass and big panfish. I think I would also lean towards a 6 weight since it will throw bass poppers a tad easier than a 5, but either one would be good. A 6 weight would be a little light for saltwater to chase reds and specs where a 7, 8 or 9 weight would be better suited for dealing with wind and larger sized flies, but you might get a way with it on calm days and/or sheltered bays. Since you plan on travelling, I would get a four piece rod since it can be carried on as overhead luggage on planes instead of having to be stowed as checked baggage.

Ron Eagle Elk gave you a great link on FAOL with info on getting started. There are also excellent books available for free in your library or through their inter-loan program. Or you could buy one for about 16 bucks like:

The LL Bean Ultimate Fly Fishing Handbook http://www.amazon.com/L-L-Bean-Ultimate-Book-Fishing/dp/159228891X

or the Orvis Guide to Fly Fishing http://www.amazon.com/Fly-Fishing-Completely-Revised-Updated-Illustrations/dp/1592288189/ref=pd_sim_b_2

Either one would make a good resource for you in getting started.

But as others have suggested an even better way to get off to a good start is to join up with a Trout Unlimited Chapter, or fly fishing club affiliated with the Federation of Fly Fishers. Most are very welcoming to new members and devote a lot of effort into helping new comers to the sport get started, with casting clinics, beginning tying classes informative meetings and group trips to local waters. Here?s a link to the search page of the Federation of Fly Fishers. You won?t find TU chapters in LA, but if you do a search on Louisiana you?ll see several FFF affiliated clubs throughout the state. Depending on where you are Louisiana you might want to search neighboring states as well to find one close to you.
http://www.fedflyfishers.org/Default.aspx?tabid=4357

Getting some basic skills under your belt before your trip to CO will make it more enjoyable and you?ll spend more time fishing and absorbing ?intermediate level? information about trout fishing in moving water as opposed to trying to figure out the basics.

Good luck,

mark

15

… let’s say that I live in SE Louisiana.

So I’m asking myself - how many fly shops are there in my area that will present me with an interesting selection of rods, reels, and lines, and even leaders, tippet, and flies that will be suitable for fishing creeks of unknown size in a place I ( might ) never have been ?? And when I find one, if I do, how well equipped is the salesperson there to REALLY help me with a good selection of equipment for my intended purposes ??

I know how to use the internet. Otherwise I couldn’t have posted here to ask the question. So I can shop on the internet for equipment that sounds like what I might want, and maybe even find some good fly shops in the part of Colorado that I am going to visit that carries some, if not all, of that stuff. I can make phone or email inquiries to them for more specific information, and even set up an appointment for first hand advice, and A FREE CASTING LESSON with the rod I end up buying from them. Buying the rod, reel, and line and getting a decent casting lesson will probably add an hour, at most, to the time I am going to spend there for other stuff I need to fish in the area.

I don’t have to transport that rod, reel, line, and other gear to my location. And PROBABLY the fly shop I buy it from in Colorado will kindly mail the rod to me at home when I am finished with my visit, for a minimal, if any, charge. Boy, is that a relief from all the horror stories I’m hearing about transporting gear.

Just saying …:roll:

16

Hi Garrison,

Just a few thoughts of very basic information to add to the advise above.

First, and you may already know this, but, rod weight is a big factor. The bigger the rod weight, the heavier fly line it takes. From a practical consideration, a light rod is nicer to use for a delicate presentation and is a lot of fun to use, but the heavier rod will handle larger fish, cast a heavier fly (like a big stonefly nymph if trout fishing), and handle wind much better than a light rod.

If you are going to use the same rod for redfish or specks, go for the 6 weight. It will do much better than a 5 wt. for the salt, will handle the wind much better, and will do fine for trout.

A second factor is the rod action. A fast action means that most of the flex in the rod, when casting, is in the tip. A slower action has more flex further down the length of the rod. The advantage of the faster rod is that it will throw tighter loops than will the slower rod, but the price is that it is much more difficult to master. I think that virtually any beginner will be much better of with a slower rod. Most of the mid to higher priced rods tend to be fast action.

Another factor is rod length. For a brushy stream a short rod is much better. The Cimmarron, where I fish when I can, has quite a bit of trees and brush around it, and I use my very inexpensive 6.5 foot when fishing it. It is a $25 yellow fiberglass Eagle Claw rod, and a joy on that steam. For open country, a longer rod is much better. I think if I wanted a rod to fish for redfish and specs, but also wanted it for trout fishing in the mountains I would buy a 9 foot 6 weight. For my trout fishing I would avoid brushy tree lined streams, and would find out where some good meadow fishing was, and would go there.

Another factor is that for the salt, you want a corrosion resistant rod and fly reel. Many rods and fly reels are not corrosion resistent.

Finally, I am very much in the camp that says buy the rod now. Fly casting is about 10 times as difficult to learn as using a spinning rod. Get the rod now, buy a video on fly casting, and practice in a park or football field some before you go. My first fly fishing was miserable because I had done no fly casting prior to fishing, and even with some instruction from a friend, it was pretty much miserable. Practice before you go. Also, if you have access to a pond or lake, try some bluegill fishing…great practice, and a lot of fun. Even ponds in a park in town can be pretty good.

If I were to start over as a beginner, and at the same time know what I know now, I would look pretty hard at a Cabelas house brand “Cabelas” rods, in one of the fairly inexpensive models. You get a lot of rod for the money. You might even phone Cabelas mail order line, and talk to one of their product experts on fly rods. The expert will know which rods and fly reels that they have that are corrosion resistent.

There may be fly shops in your area that will also have similar rods. It doesn’t hurt to look. However, if the shop tries to sell you a $500 rod, I would walk. (Knowing what I know now, I would be suspect that such a shop is far more interested in their bottom line than they are interested in what is best for you as an absolute beginner.) Such a rod is likely a fast action, and not a good choice for a beginner. The very experienced fly fisherman in the shop may really like such a rod, but that doesn’t mean that it is a good rod for you.

If the shop has a middle aged or older guy that has taught a lot of fly casting classes for beginners, and taught a lot of beginners to fly fish, he will be a lot more aware of what would be good for you than will the young employee in the shop who has fished enough to learn to be a pretty good caster, but doesn’t realise that the beginner will have a tough time with that super fast rod that he himself likes. Just because he likes that super fast rod does not mean that you will do well with it, and in fact that super fast rod will make it a lot harder for you to learn.

Anyway, my two bits.

Regards,

Gandolf

17

Hey Folks… thanks very much for the feedback. This really gives me a good idea of what to look for when I go to Cabela’s or my local fishing and hunting shop. I will definitely buy the book, the DVD, and I’m close to a park where I can practice casting. I have two months until my trip!

18

Welcome to FAOL from So Cal, Garrison. I have so many rods and reels around here because I didn’t ask that question in the beginning. You will get some good advise and no doubt some biased opinions to mull over so take your time. Check around and see if there are any fly fishing clubs close to where you live. If there are, visit them and puppydog some of the old timers there. Good luck. Jim

19

Im like zaxaca. Just keep it simple for now. I have been fly fishing for just over a year now and finally caught my first rainbow trout back in April. Largely in part due to finally taking the sport seriously and trying to get better (unlike last year). Welcome to such a great sport where enjoying nature is just as cool as the fishing itself. Research what flies to use in Colorado along the river your gonna fish and when you get there, pay attention to whats flying around and crawling and try to imitate that to the flies that you have. Work on your casting techniques before hand as well.

Finally, please don’t get overwhelmed with fly fishing. There is SO MUCH information out there on how to fly fish that it can get extremely discouraging, but just try and keep things simple and knock one tree down at a time. I have been avid bait fisherman all my life, but now fly fishing has totally taken control of me that I don’t even bait fish that much anymore. Good luck

20

There is no one fly rod that will "do it all’. That is a myth.

For your Colorado trip, do it the easy way. Go to Wal-Mart and buy a Scientific Anglers 5 wt Trout set-up. It comes with everything you need to start catching trout immedeatly, except the skill and knowledge. The equipment will all be matched, and the quality is plenty good. I fish with them all the time. It even has a few basic flies to get you started. And, this will work for La. panfish and smaller bass as well. The whole set-up will only run you < $50.00.

For fishing in La. for redfish, specks and bass, again, go to Wal-Mart and get the 8-9 wt. Bass set-up. It has a fighting-butt for handling big bruisers, and all the equipment will be properly matched. I use one for bass, stripers and in salt-water. I’ve never had a problem with it. This outfit runs around $70.00.

After you gain experience, you may want to upgrade, but then you will know more about what you need and want. Or, maybe not. I have never upgraded in 40+ years, because my Scientific Anglers have always worked great for me. I don’t need a $1000.00 rod and reel. And don’t get me wrong…if you’ve got the money, and you want a $1000.00 set-up, then by all means…get it. But, I am happy with what I have. I think you will be as well.

Good luck.