I’m looking to buy a new fly rod this year and would like some input on the subject.
I’ve been looking at the LLBean Double L or a St. Croix Avid in a 4wt. Anyone with preference to one or the other?
Happy New Year to all and thanks in advance for your input.
D.A. Flymann (Paul)
Dont know about the Bean rod…but if I were making the choice Id buy the Avid…and thats from experience using their AVid blanks on rods Ive made.
Haven’t tried the double L but the Avid is a great rod for the price.
There are a lot of choices in 4wt rods. Many different action types and lenghts. If possible I would try to play around with a few before making a choice. Also do not forget about some of the custom rod choices. Take a look at some in this rod building section.
Have thrown the LL.Bean in a 5 weight and it is a nice casting rod, and the Avid’s have an excellent reputation BUT someone else’s preference is not quite as important as your own. You really need to cast a rod before you can judge if you like it, so I’d find a shop that carries St. Croix and try one before you contemplate ordering one from LL.Bean.
I second with whatfly said. You really need to cast the rod and see which one you like. You might love the Bean and hat the Avid and visa-versa. The worst thing you can do is purchase a rod on the opinion of others and finally get the rod and feel it’s just not for you. Been there done that and talking from experience. Take your time and get the rod that feels best for you and fits your budget.
The Avids are nice rods, as was mentioned though, just because I like mine (Avid 4 piece 7’6" 4 weight) doesn’t mean you will. You’re gonna wanna throw one first. They are a softer action.
I appreciate all the advice about test driving the rod before purchasing. I actually started looking at Orvis rods in the spring after having toured the Manchester rod plant. I was very impressed with all that goes in to making a rod. I tried out one at a local store and felt like a kid in a candy store. I wanted to buy one right then but my wallet was “stuck” in my pocket! Too much for my budget for what I want. I got interested in the St Croix after meeting a fellow flyman on the river. He swore upon the St Croix and was very happy with his 4wt. The other thing I noticed is that the Bean rod is an import compared to the USA stamp on St Croix’s. I will make a point of visiting some stores to try them out before making my final purchase. Hopefully I’ll start the season with a new “jewel”!
Thanks again…happy fishin’!
D.A. Flymann