Best Fly Rod for Beginners: Our Top Picks

Fly fishing is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with nature. It’s a peaceful and calming activity that requires skill and patience. However, for beginners, it can be overwhelming to choose the right gear, especially when it comes to fly rods. A good fly rod is essential for casting effectively, and it can make or break your fly fishing experience.

When looking for the best fly rod for beginners, there are a few critical things to consider. First, the weight of the rod is crucial. A lighter rod is easier to handle and cast, making it ideal for beginners. Second, the length of the rod is also important. A shorter rod is more comfortable to use in smaller streams and creeks, while a longer rod is better for larger bodies of water. Finally, the material of the rod can affect its performance and durability.

Best Fly Rods for Beginners

Whether you’re looking for a rod that’s easy to cast, lightweight, or affordable, we’ve got you covered. Below are our top picks for the best fly rods for beginners.

Redington VICE Fly Fishing Outfit

If you’re looking for a beginner fly rod, the Redington VICE Fly Fishing Outfit is a great option.

Pros

The multi-modulus carbon fiber blanks offer increased levels of recovery for casting with greater accuracy and control.
The anodized machined aluminum reel seat makes this gear piece ideal for all water conditions.
The kit includes a durable ID reel, a RIO Mainstream fly line, and a durable Cordura tube case with built-in rod dividers.

Cons

The reel is pretty much all plastic.
The rod does not have a lot of action and does not load all that well.
The handle fell off on some users on their first use.

Redington designed the VICE Fly Fishing Outfit for all anglers. The fast-action rod range is classically styled and accessible. The multi-modulus carbon fiber blanks offer increased levels of recovery for casting with greater accuracy and control. Additionally, a wide range of specialty sizes for unique applications will not only feed a fishing habit but may transform it into a VICE.

Also, the anodized machined aluminum reel seat is ideal for all water conditions. The laser-etched model reference on it allows quick rod identification. The kit includes a durable ID reel, a RIO Mainstream fly line, and a Cordura tube case with built-in rod dividers. The fishing rod and reel combo model breaks down into 4 pieces for easy storage in the included case.

M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Extreme Graphite Fly Fishing Rod

If you’re looking for an affordable fly rod that still performs well, the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Extreme Graphite Fly Fishing Rod might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

Designed for a premium entry level at an outstanding attractive price.
Exclusive Maxlinq blank technology.
High standard smooth guides.

Cons

Some users have reported issues with the tip section.
The cork handle may not be as comfortable as higher-end options.
The rod may not be as durable as some more expensive models.

Maxcatch designed the Extreme Graphite Fly Fishing Rod to be an affordable option for beginners, yet it still provides high-quality components and a solid performance. Additionally, the Maxlinq blank technology and high standard smooth guides ensure a smooth and powerful casting experience. The cork handle and reel seat are also comfortable and reliable.

One potential downside to this rod is that some users have reported issues with the tip section, which may be more prone to breaking than other parts of the rod. Additionally, the cork handle may not be as comfortable as higher-end options, and the rod may not be as durable as some more expensive models.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly fly rod that still performs well, the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Extreme Graphite Fly Fishing Rod is definitely worth considering. With a one-year warranty and lifetime repairing warranty, you can feel confident in your purchase.

Best Fly Rod Combos for Beginners

Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit

If you’re a beginner angler, we recommend the Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit. It’s a great starter kit that provides performance for serious anglers.

Pros

The 4-piece fly rod and reel combo is packaged with an Encounter large arbor fly reel, weight-forward floating line, backing, and leader.
The Encounter fly fishing reel, made of extremely lightweight molded composite, offers smooth and crisp performance with a beefy drag system and easy left- and right-hand conversion.
Orvis dedicates itself to fly fishing gear of unmatched performance and affordability, and the Encounter Fly Rod Boxed Outfit is backed by Orvis’s trusted workmanship.

Cons

The reel is made of plastic, which may be a disappointment to some anglers who were expecting aluminum.
The Encounter Fly Rod Outfit is only available in 5, 6, and 8 weight, so it may not be suitable for all types of fishing.
The price point may be a bit high for some beginner anglers.

The Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit is accessible for beginning anglers and is the perfect fly fishing kit to get younger anglers started on their journey. The Encounter Fly Rod Outfit does everything you need it to do, and does it all beautifully. The most common search terms for this product include fishing rod and reel combo, fly fishing rod and reel combo, fly rod, fly fishing rod, fly rod and reel combo, fly reel, fly fishing reel, fishing rod & reel combos, fly fishing kit, fly fishing combo, and fishing rod combo.

In conclusion, if you’re a beginner angler looking for a high-quality fly rod and reel combo starter kit, the Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit is a great choice.

Wild Water Standard Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit

If you’re a beginner looking for a complete fly fishing kit, the Wild Water Standard Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit is a great option.

Pros

The lightweight and durable IM8 matte black graphite rod is easy to handle and comes with a comfortable cork handle.
The die-cast aluminum fly reel is durable and easy to use, with a quick-release spool, adjustable disc drag, and one-way clutch bearing.
The kit includes a waterproof fly box with nine flies, so you’ll have a variety of options to choose from.

Cons

The kit may not be suitable for advanced or professional anglers who require more specialized gear.
Some users have reported issues with the reel, such as it not being smooth enough or breaking easily.
The included fly box may not be large enough for some anglers who need to carry a large number of flies.

The Wild Water Standard Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit is an excellent option for beginners. The lightweight and durable IM8 matte black graphite rod is easy to handle and comes with a comfortable cork handle, making it easy to learn how to cast. The die-cast aluminum fly reel is durable and easy to use, with a quick-release spool, adjustable disc drag, and one-way clutch bearing. Additionally, the kit includes a waterproof fly box with nine flies, providing a variety of options.

While the kit may not be suitable for advanced or professional anglers who require more specialized gear, it’s a great option for beginners who want to fly fish without breaking the bank. However, some users have reported issues with the reel, such as it not being smooth enough or breaking easily. Nonetheless, it’s a solid choice for beginners.

Wild Water Deluxe Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit

If you’re looking for an affordable fly fishing kit that has everything you need to get started, the Wild Water Deluxe Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit is an excellent choice.

Pros

The 5/6 wt 9 ft fly rod is perfect for catching most fish, making it a great all-around option.
The package includes a high-quality fly reel with stainless steel internal components, adjustable disc drag, and a one-way clutch bearing.
The kit comes with a rugged plastic fly box, 18 fishing flies, a 32-inch PVC rod tube, and a cloth rod bag with ties, making it easy to travel with and store.

Cons

Some users have reported issues with the reel handle breaking off unexpectedly.
The rod may not be as durable as some higher-end options.
The included fishing flies may not be suitable for all fishing conditions.

The Wild Water Deluxe Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit is a great choice for beginners who want to learn how to fly fish. The 5/6 wt 9 ft fly rod is a versatile option that can handle most fishing situations, while the high-quality fly reel ensures smooth and accurate casting. The kit also includes a variety of fishing flies and a durable case for travel and storage.

The only potential downsides to this kit are the occasional issues with the reel handle breaking off and the fact that the rod may not be as durable as some higher-end options. Additionally, the included flies may not be suitable for all fishing conditions. However, for the price, this is an excellent starter kit that provides everything you need to get started with fly fishing.

Maxcatch Women’s Elegant Pink Fly Fishing Rod: 2/5-weight with Rod Tube Elegant 9′ 5wt 4sec Rod and Reel Combo

If you’re looking for a cost-effective fly combo to get started with fly fishing, the Maxcatch Women’s Elegant Pink Fly Fishing Rod is a great option.

Pros

Comes with everything you need to start fly fishing right away
Exclusive Maxlinq rod technology for easy long distance casting
Aluminum fly reel with an extremely smooth disc drag system

Cons

Not the most durable option
Some users report issues with the fly line tangling
Not suitable for advanced fly fishing techniques

This fly combo is designed for new fly fishers to get started right away and includes a performance 9′, 5 weight, 4 pc rod, an aluminum large arbor rainbow trout color fly reel with fly line, backing and leaders. Additionally, it comes with 12 hand-tied flies in a fly box, making it perfect to start fly fishing.

The Maxlinq rod technology is exclusive to Maxcatch and features pure IM7 24T plus 30T carbon fiber. With mixed 5 layers of carbon including Reinforced Muscle carbon layer for at least 20% increase in strength. The aluminum fly reel that comes with the combo has an extremely smooth disc drag system and is lightweight. The reel size matches with each line weight rod for perfect balance accordingly.

It also comes with WF5F pink fly line, 2pcs 9′ 4x tapered leaders, 20 lb 100 yard yellow backing. The fly box that comes with the combo is a Floating Fly Box-4.9’’X3.5’’1.3’’ with a swing leaf, holds up to 220 nymphs dry or wet flies size 10 to 24 ideal for all fishing conditions. It includes 12 pc hand-tied dry and wet flies, hook size:#10.

Wakeman Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit

If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact fly fishing rod, the Wakeman Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit may be a good option for you.

Pros

The collapsible design makes it easy to pack and transport.
The fiberglass material makes it durable and strong without being too heavy.
Comes with fishing accessories including fly line, tapered leader line, and dry flies.

Cons

The small reel may not be suitable for larger fish.
Some users have reported issues with the carrying case.
The kit may not include everything needed for more advanced fly fishing techniques.

This fly fishing rod and reel combo kit suits beginners and experienced anglers. The compact, screw-together design makes it easy to pack and transport. Moreover, the fiberglass material makes it durable and strong without being too heavy. The kit includes fishing accessories, such as fly line, tapered leader line, and dry flies, to start fishing right away.

However, the small reel may not be suitable for larger fish. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the carrying case. Furthermore, the kit may not include everything needed for more advanced fly fishing techniques. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and lightweight fly fishing rod, the Wakeman Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit may be worth considering.

Wild Water Deluxe Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit

If you’re a beginner looking for a fly rod that won’t break the bank, the Wild Water Deluxe Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit may be just what you’re looking for.

Pros

The kit comes with everything you need to get started, including a fly rod, reel, line, leader, flies, and a waterproof fly box.
The 7′ 3/4 weight rod is perfect for fishing in streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds, and the medium-fast action makes it easy to learn to cast.
The included hard tube case makes it easy to transport your gear and keep it protected.

Cons

The kit may not be suitable for more experienced anglers who are looking for higher-end gear.
The included flies may not be suitable for all fishing conditions, and you may need to purchase additional flies separately.
Some users have reported issues with the reel, such as difficulty adjusting the drag and poor line retrieval.

Overall, we believe the Wild Water Deluxe Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit is a great choice for beginners. The kit includes everything needed to get started, and the 7′ 3/4 weight rod is perfect for various conditions. Although more experienced anglers may want higher-end gear, this kit is an excellent way to start fly fishing without breaking the bank.

Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo

If you’re a beginner angler or you’re looking for a new fly fishing rod, the Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo is an excellent choice for you.

Pros

The combo includes everything you need to get started, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
The 4-piece fly fishing rod is made of high-quality IM8 graphite and has a medium-fast action, making it easy to cast accurately and with good control.
The reel is preinstalled with backing, a floating fly line, and tapered leader, so you can start fishing right away.

Cons

The rod is heavier than some other options on the market, which may make it less comfortable to use for extended periods.
The fly box is relatively small and may not be sufficient for all your fly storage needs.
The line included with the combo may not be suitable for all fishing conditions.

For beginners just starting with fly fishing, the Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo is an excellent choice. The combo includes a high-quality 4-piece fly fishing rod, preinstalled reel, and a variety of fishing accessories. The 7/8 weight, 9′ rod is made of high-quality IM8 graphite and has a medium-fast action for accurate casting with good control. The preinstalled reel has backing, a floating fly line, and tapered leader so you can start fishing right away.

Overall, the Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo is a great option for beginners with high-quality components that ensure an enjoyable time on the water.

Best Saltwater Fly Rods for Beginners

Sougayilang Saltwater Freshwater Fly Fishing Rod with Reel Combo Kit A: Silver Kits with Bag

If you’re a beginner fly fisher, you should consider the Sougayilang Saltwater Freshwater Fly Fishing Rod with Reel Combo Kit. It’s a complete package that includes everything you need to start fly fishing.

Pros

The kit includes everything you need to start fly fishing, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for beginners.
The fishing rod is made of carbon fiber, which makes it lightweight and easy to handle.
The aluminum alloy fly fishing reel has a one-way clutch bearing for smooth drag engagement, and it’s interchangeable for left and right-handed anglers.

Cons

A few users have reported problems with the reel, such as it being difficult to adjust or not working at all.
The fly line doesn’t have a loop, which some users find inconvenient.

The Sougayilang Fly Fishing Rod Combo Kit is a great option for beginners who want a complete package that includes everything they need to start fly fishing. The fishing rod is made of carbon fiber, which makes it lightweight and easy to handle. The aluminum alloy fly fishing reel has a one-way clutch bearing for smooth drag engagement, and it’s interchangeable for left and right-handed anglers. The kit includes a fishing rod bag, fly fishing line, backing line, tapered leader, braided loop connectors, 12pcs fly fishing flies, and a fly fishing box, all in a convenient fishing case.

A few users have reported problems with the reel, such as it being difficult to adjust or not working at all. Additionally, the fly line doesn’t have a loop, which some users find inconvenient. Overall, if you’re a beginner fly fisher looking for a cost-effective and convenient option, the Sougayilang Fly Fishing Rod Combo Kit is worth considering.

Goture Fly Fishing Rod Reel Combos Fly Fishing Starter Kit 9ft, 4-Piece,Fly Rod Fly Fishing Combo for Bass Trout Travel Saltwater Man Women 5/6 7/8 A: Only a Fly Rod:8’6”/4wt/Action-s

This fly fishing rod is a good option for beginners who want a lightweight and durable rod for fly fishing.

Pros

This rod comes in three different actions: slow, medium, and fast, to better fit different fishing situations.
The rod is made of 100% IM8 30T carbon fiber, which makes it lightweight and strong.
The cork handle is soft and comfortable to grip, and the CNC machined aluminum reel seat is sturdy and corrosion-resistant.

Cons

Some customers have reported that the rod is too fragile and breaks easily.
The rod may not be suitable for catching larger fish in rough waters.
The product description may not be clear enough for beginners who are not familiar with fly fishing terminology.

Consider the Goture Fly Fishing Rod Reel Combos Fly Fishing Starter Kit if you’re a beginner looking for a lightweight and durable fly fishing rod. The rod comes in three different actions to better fit different fishing situations and is made of 100% IM8 30T carbon fiber, making it lightweight and strong. The cork handle is soft and comfortable to grip, and the CNC machined aluminum reel seat is sturdy and corrosion-resistant.

However, some customers have reported that the rod is too fragile and breaks easily, so it may not be suitable for catching larger fish in rough waters. Additionally, the product description may not be clear enough for beginners who are not familiar with fly fishing terminology. Overall, the Goture Fly Fishing Rod Reel Combos Fly Fishing Starter Kit is worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable and beginner-friendly fly fishing rod.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best fly rod for beginners, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of important factors to help you make an informed decision.

Rod Length and Weight

The length and weight of a fly rod are two important factors to consider. Longer rods are great for casting further distances, while shorter rods are better for smaller streams and tighter spaces. As a beginner, a rod between 8-9 feet in length is a good starting point.

The weight of the rod is also important as it determines the size of fish you can catch. A lighter rod is great for smaller fish, while a heavier rod is better for larger fish. A 5-6 weight rod is a great option for beginners as it can handle a variety of fish sizes.

Material

Fly rods are typically made of graphite, fiberglass, or bamboo. Graphite is the most common material used as it is lightweight and durable. Fiberglass is a great option for beginners as it is more forgiving and easier to cast. Bamboo is the most expensive option and requires more maintenance, but it provides a unique feel and is great for traditional fly fishing.

Action

The action of a fly rod refers to its flexibility. A fast action rod is stiffer and better for longer casts, while a slow action rod is more flexible and better for shorter casts. A medium action rod is a good compromise between the two. As a beginner, a medium action rod is a great place to start as it is versatile and can handle a variety of casting styles.

Price

Fly rods can range in price from under $100 to over $1000. As a beginner, it’s not necessary to spend a lot of money on a rod. However, it’s important to invest in a quality rod that will last and provide a good experience. A mid-range rod between $200-$400 is a great option for beginners.

By considering the length and weight of the rod, the material, the action, and the price, you can make an informed decision on the best fly rod for your needs as a beginner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size fly rod is recommended for beginners?

When it comes to choosing the right size fly rod for beginners, we recommend going with a 9-foot rod. This is a versatile length that will allow you to fish in a variety of conditions. It’s not too long to be unwieldy for beginners, but it’s also not too short to limit your casting ability.

What action should a beginner’s fly rod have?

For beginners, we recommend a medium to medium-fast action fly rod. This will provide a good balance of sensitivity and power, making it easier to learn how to cast and control your line.

What weight fly rod should a beginner use?

For most beginners, a 5 or 6 weight fly rod is a good choice. These weights are versatile enough to handle a variety of fishing situations, from small streams to larger rivers and lakes.

Which type of fly rod is best for a beginner?

For beginners, we recommend starting with a graphite fly rod. These rods are lightweight, durable, and provide good sensitivity for feeling bites and controlling your line.

What are some good beginner fly rod brands?

Some good beginner fly rod brands include Redington, Echo, Orvis, and TFO. These brands offer a range of affordable and high-quality fly rods that are perfect for beginners.

What is a good fly fishing combo kit for beginners?

If you’re just starting out, a fly fishing combo kit is a great way to get everything you need in one package. Some good options for beginners include the Redington Path II Combo, the Echo Base Kit, and the Orvis Encounter Combo. These kits come with a fly rod, reel, line, and sometimes even a case and flies, making it easy to get started with fly fishing.

Last Updated on November 10, 2023 by Get Fly Fishing