Fly fishing involves casting artificial lures and flies with a rod and reel to a specific location. The fly fishing cast involves a specialized technique that allows you to continuously present the bait to the fish. Choosing the rod and reel to match your fishing conditions can improve your fishing success. With a variety of brands, types and materials, selecting a rod and reel can be difficult.
Function
Fly fishing rods and reels have specific functions. The reel manages the fly line by storing it, controls how much is released during each cast and reels the line back into the reel. The rod acts as a guide to control the line during a cast.
Rod Materials
Rods can be built from a number of materials, but the most common materials include carbon graphite, graphite and fiberglass. The materials can affect the rod's action and casting ability. Graphite rods feature graphite that is patterned to prevent the rod from flattening when casting or retrieving a fish. The strength to withstand flattening makes a graphite rod ideal for fighting big fish. These rods are lighter than fiberglass and are easy to cast for beginners. Fiberglass rods are common among fly fishing anglers because they are durable and less expensive than graphite rods.
Rod Features
When you are looking at a fly fishing rod, there are several features to each rod. Every rod has a larger diameter at the grip and tapers down to the tip. A balanced rod is essential when matching the rod and reel to your fishing conditions. Rod action refers to the rod's stiffness and where it flexes. Fast action rods are stiff and bend by the tip. They are ideal for long casts in windy conditions. Medium action rods flex in the middle and can be used by beginners in different conditions. Slow action rods bend uniformly and offer the ability for accurate casts and delicate bait presentations.
Reel Types
Fly reels come in three types--single-action, multiplier and automatic. Single-action reels are the most common because they are easy to use. The reel attaches directly to the handle of the rod and one turn of the handle is one revolution of the spool. Multiplier reels use a gear system that allows for quick line retrieves. Automatic reels have a lever that retrieves the line and is an advantage when you are making long casts.
Reel Materials
Fly fishing reels are typically made from metals or machined aluminum. Graphite reels are lighter than aluminum but aluminum is the most popular material because it has a finish that doesn't shimmer. Some angler's don't want a reel that has a shiny appearance because it might spook fish. The graphite or aluminum has open housings on the side of the reel that allows the wet line to dry.
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