Fly Rod/reel Combo?

[I.rar]

So after reading the thread about fly fishing , I started browsing around and decided I want to give it a try. I see pflueger makes a couple rod and reel combos but I see alot of mixed reviews. Can someone recommend me a decent combo? I would prefer one that at least comes with line and maybe flies. I mainly fish from shore and my lakes dont seem to hold anything over 5# or alot of thick cover.

Thanks.

[J Francho]

http://www.wildwaterflyfishing.com/

You want a 7wt Starter Package. Their store front is down, but call them. Tell them John sent you.

[I.rar]

Thanks. Those prices and warranty seem great but it looks like all the starter packages are out of stock. I'll give him a call.

Would a 7wt be like a medium spinning rod and a 5 be a light? I would like to catch panfish and cichlids with this also.

[J Francho]

I usually recommend a at least a 6 or 7wt for horsing the fish out of moderate cover, but also because turning over those big flies takes a heavier rod. You can always downsize and use a 5 wt, which would be about as close to a medium power, I guess. It's not quite the same, because you're turning over flies and shooting line with the rod, not casting weighted lures.

Call them, they'll have something in inventory. They are overhauling the store front, so it might not be 100% correct. I grew up with Eric, we in fact went fishing last weekend. He was the photographer for my avatar.

[SirSnookalot]

I wouldn't be limiting myself to just lakes, you're in Miami, all kinds of great fish in different locations. Not a bad idea to visit some local fly shops to see what's available in your price range, these guys love to talk fly fishing and are there for you to pick their brains. I would get local knowledge on what to buy and where to fish. Most of their equipment is higher end, but it's good to get an idea of what you can expect, never know what they may be able to set up. Local knowledge would be my starting point.

In your area you have peacocks, bass, brackish smaller jacks, ladyfish all great on a fly rod, just naming some of the smaller species.

[loodkop]

If I may make one recommendation it would be to start with the best rod and flyline you can afford. Better tackle makes learning to cast much easier and in general makes fishing more enjoyable than bargain basement specials. Fight the fish not your gear.

[I.rar]

Thanks Snook. I looked up some of my local fly shops and it seems all that they carry is way out of my budget. I figure I could always swing by to pick up some flies and maybe get some suggestions and tips though.

I should have a budget of around $150-200 for everything to get me started. Would this give me more options on decent gear or am i beet going with johns suggestion? I see cabelas has some outfits in my range but that would end up being more expensive adding everything else i need..

[J Francho]

If I may make one recommendation it would be to start with the best rod and flyline you can afford.

Normally, I would agree, except in the case of fly tackle. Most high end stuff features faster, more technical tapers that aren't the best stuff to learn roll casts, false casts, double hauls. It's much easier on the learning curve to start with a slower, more forgiving taper. By not spending a ton on the initial rod, you won't have lost much when you outgrow (if ever) your initial investment. As far as flyline goes, there is no "best" only better for whatever application. A weight forward floating line and double taper sink tip is probably all anyone would need for most bass and panfishing.

[SirSnookalot]

@ sqhertz

I would check out BPS at least for a starting point. They are local and if any problem arise they stand behind their customer service. The sign on front may say Bass Pro but inside they cater to local fisherman, many of the sales people are saltwater anglers. I would think the same pretty much applies in their fly room, guys that do local flyfishing, take a peek, your under no obligation to buy. No question local shops carry higher end, but that's where the best advice is. Do some Google, see what other Floridians on a similar budget are using, I did and gained some knowledge. I would avoid buying anything site unseen on line unless you are 100% positive that's what you want.

I'm not telling you what to fish for but with the abundance of species available within minutes of where you live, I wouldn't go too light. There are people that would die to fly fish in your area, you're a jaunt from Biscayne Bay and the upper keys, I'm jealous..lol

Just make sure that's what you want to do, then commit yourself, I'll be doing the same

[trevor]

A great, affordable, combo that actually casts really well is the Dogwood Canyon outfits from BPS. It was my first rod and reel and I still use the rod quite often. It's not to fancy, but gets the job done.

[McAlpine]

Personally I think that TFO makes just about the best rod for the money out there and comes with a lifetime no questions asked warranty. A 6wt is a great starter rod that will do just about anything you want. Starting out you dont need a great reel but dont buy junk either. One of the TFO combos would be fine, Ross also makes a great reel for the money. Good luck!

http://www.templeforkflyrods.com/

http://www.rossreels.com/

[200racing]

Personally I think that TFO makes just about the best rod for the money out there and comes with a lifetime no questions asked warranty. A 6wt is a great starter rod that will do just about anything you want. Starting out you dont need a great reel but dont buy junk either. One of the TFO combos would be fine, Ross also makes a great reel for the money. Good luck!

http://www.templeforkflyrods.com/

http://www.rossreels.com/

ive had a tfo 5wt for 7+ years. shut a boat hatch on it.heard it crack and could see some line in the epoxy. i landed several more fish before it broke on a hookset. sent it in and got a brand new one right back. very pleased. i want a 8wt soon. 100% it will be a tfo.

aslo one thing i read on a fly fishing forum that putting one weight heavier line then your rod it is easier to cast. never tried it.

i buy all my flies online.you get your head ripped off at shops even bps. look at flies for other species not just your target. i catch alot of bass on salmon and saltwater flies.

[I.rar]

can anyone comment on the redington pursuit outfits? the 6 and 8wt in the 4 piece look nice and come with a lifetime warranty. i also read that they are owned by sage.