Fishing Forum

Full Version: Weight in fly rods
You're currently viewing a stripped down version of our content. View the full version with proper formatting.
What dose the weight mean. I have been die hard fly fishing for 3 years and still don't no cuz I have hade the same rod the whole time. I am getting a new rod next week cuz my bday
[signature]
It's essentially matching the line to the rod. A 5 wt line works best on a 5wt rod, a 10wt rod works best with 10 wt etc. Its also the strength of the rod... The smaller the number of weight the "weaker" the rod is and the higher the weight the "stronger" it is. If you are fishing for trout most folks use a 3-5 weight rod. Larger fish such as carp, muskie, pike even tarpon will require a heavier rod. Make sense?

Here is a link with a more detailed description http://www.flyfishingfromscratch.com/blo...ht-matter/
[signature]
Higher weight also throws bigger heavier flies better and a lower throws little flies more delicately. So consider what flies u mostly fish streamers, nymph rigs or dries and emergers[Smile]
[signature]
[quote Catcherman.]Higher weight also throws bigger heavier flies better and a lower throws little flies more delicately. So consider what flies u mostly fish streamers, nymph rigs or dries and emergers[Smile][/quote] good point... I use a 4wt for dries and a 6wt for streamers. 5wt is the most versitalie that will mostly do everything.
[signature]
I am getting this rod and reel combo I was just wondering what weight to get. Thanks now I no I will get prob a 4 weight, my old rod was a 2 weight I think and it was 7 feet I could not cast and streamers with out killing my arms
[signature]
Oops sorry here is the pic
[signature]
Ya a 2 weight is designed for smaller flies, small creeks and small trout, Or for panfish. A 4wt will feel like a broomstick! Is that the crosswater?
[signature]
It is also in how you land a fish. Lance Egan has caught Pike and Carp on a zero weight. Fight with the butt, and keep tip down.

But back to the question, it can also be as simple as how fast do you want to land a fish. Either to practice C&R or to simply get back in the water to catch more.

We make ans use smaller rods for the fun of it. More excitement in the game.
You could get by with on rod in a 6 or 8 as that would handle anything. A 2 wt is a little limiting however as I said, you could do it.

I think it has come down to the right tool for the right job. And spin fishers are after the same thing.
[signature]
[quote LOVBASS117]Oops sorry here is the pic[/quote] This was my first set up, it caught a lot of trout, and it still gets a lot of use. Both the rod and the reel are pretty much bullet proof.

My only two cents on this set up would be to consider an upgrade to a good fly line (think $40 to $60) -- it will make a big difference in learning to cast.
Sometimes you can get a $100 line on sale for this price range.
[signature]
Here's a lesson on selecting fly rods that I find most helpful.

http://www.tellurideangler.com/news/3/Ho...y-Rod.html
[signature]
Everything that has been said is correct. But they are only parts of the equation. Casting distance, accuracy, abilty to work the wind, all play in. Big rods need big heavy line to load properly.

My 2-wt will make pretty, delicate, accurate short casts. I could easily hit a copenhagen can at 30 to 40 feet. But because it is light and has little backbone, not optimal for throwing it in windy conditions.

My 9 and 10 wt's on the other hand will throw lots of line and power through the wind. While I can cast to a hoola hoop at 70 ft, no way to a copenhagen can. Also a rod that strong is poor at 20 ft. However they are very nice with big ass salt water fishies.

That is why you need many rods!! Never leave home with only one rod!!
[signature]
That is an awesome reference. Pretty much everything I believe.

Thing to remember is smaller # line means smaller diameter. So, they can cut through the wind and are easy to mend. BUT, there are specialty lines these days that do the same thing. Windcutter is a 1/2 line lighter in the front so it can cut through the wind.

Fly fishing can be very technical. Not something you can pick up and just do. A little research is needed. Find what works with you and go with it.

If it takes several rods to find this, I consider that BONUS![laugh]
[signature]
Thanks you guys for all the feed back I will let you no how my 4 wt rod is when I get it
[signature]
I also have another Q what kind of line should I get with it If I use dries and small nymphs and sometimes streamers
[signature]
There is this on sale
http://www.chifly.com/Product/Details/11...-Gold-SALE

I prefer WF but some like DT on smaller rods.
[signature]
Get a 5 wt. cuz it's the best all around rod for trout around here....know what I mean cuz.
[signature]
[quote remo_5_0]Get a 5 wt. cuz it's the best all around rod for trout around here....know what I mean cuz.[/quote]

I would have to agree with remo50 on that. A 5wt can still cast out a tiny fly, and catch a 20+inch trout (better fight those with the butt of the rod).

However I do prefer the 8wt when targeting bigger fish with bigger flies. Not only can you cast the heavy flies better, but you can fight the fish in less time.

For the record, I have only tried casting 5wt's as well as 8wt's......so I would probably like any wt. fly rod that was put into my hand.

Let us know how you like the 4wt.
[signature]
All depends where he's fishing and the targeted species. If he's used to a 2 wt he's probable developed enough skill with a lighter rod that a 4 wt will be a better fit for fishing for trout in Utah streams. Not in the same situation as a total newbie.
[signature]
I agree. I have a couple 5 wts, but a bunch 4 and 6 wts. I think I use 4 on moving water more than anything.
[signature]
I think you folks are being way to technical for this kid, I think he is 15 or so, he is getting a gift and a great all around rod for his fishing is probably best suited by a 5 wt. and he will get years of service from it, now when he gets older and has a job and some $$$ maybe he will start buying more rods. Just my .02
[signature]