Rod and reel combos for fly fishing – Buying guide, Reviews & Comparison
If you want to find the best fishing gear, but you don’t have time to go through the buying tips and reviews prepared by our research team, this short paragraph should tell you everything you need to know about the best fly fishing rod and reel combo. After analyzing a lot of feedback coming from both amateur and professional fishermen, we have concluded that the Adamsbuilt HO2 Fly Rod Combination Package is the best because it is well balanced for maximum control, and it also comes with a durable construction that is backed by a limited warranty. Beginners and even experienced anglers will appreciate how easy the 4 piece rod snaps together, and even the guides are designed to line up so rigging is a breeze. The 9 foot medium action rod has the power you need to reel in trout, and since it is constructed from graphite you have plenty of flexibility without losing any strength. Since accuracy is crucial in fly fishing this combo comes with a well balanced aluminum reel. If the Adamsbuilt HO2 Fly Rod Combination Package is not available, you should consider the Wild Water Fly Fishing Complete 5/6 Starter Package as it is a reliable alternative both in terms of performance and quality.
Comparison table
This kit comes with a rod that can be broken down into four pieces, therefore allowing owners to transport it comfortably. Having been constructed out of graphite, the rod is both flexible and sturdy enough to reel in both small and large fish. The reel is made of aluminum, is lightweight, and comes preloaded with backing.
Occasionally, the reel should be cleaned, mainly because some of the fishermen who’ve bought it say that dirt and debris tend to get lodged inside.
Fly fishing is made easy with this great rod and reel combos, and that's precisely what the Adamsbuilt HO2 package is.
This kit is intended both for experienced anglers and even more so for beginners who need a bit of help when it comes to gathering all the pieces they may need when starting to fly fish. The 4-piece 9-ft rod is well-balanced and easy to use whereas the reel is smooth and powerful and is preloaded with backing.
Since one of the two core parts in this package consists of a slow-action rod, it might be worth noting that it is less recommended for catching medium and heavy fish.
This kit is composed of a graphite and flexible rod and a large reel that’s capable of excellent performance.
The 8-foot rod provided in this combo is a good option if you intend to target fish such as trout. It’s both flexible and sturdy enough to handle reasonably sized fish and the graphite seat manages to hold the reel securely under any circumstances. The reel is well-made and dependable and features an aluminum guide.
While it has been argued that the kit works for trout and other larger species, we recommend using it mostly for small freshwater fish as the reel has been made out of a resistant type of plastic.
This is an affordable combo that speaks to the needs of rookies and experienced anglers just as well as it even includes instructions on how to tie a knot.
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5 Best Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combos (Reviews) in 2023
1. Adamsbuilt HO2 Fly Rod Combination Package
Adamsbuilt has designed a fly fishing rod and reel combo that is durable and comfortable to use. The sturdy rod can be broken down into smaller sections for convenient storage and it comes with a hard protective case that even has room for the reel. Since there is not any assembly required you can immediately start casting for trout and other small game fish, as soon as you tie a fly on the preloaded line.
The four piece rod snaps together easily, and the guides line up for quick rigging. Its medium fast action ensures that the rod is sturdy enough to reel in bigger fish, and the graphite construction provides just enough flexibility. Measuring 9 feet when the rod is fully assembled, it is capable of giving you the longer casts you need.
This combo also includes an aluminum reel that is well balanced for more accurate casts. The precision machine ensures a smooth and reliable performance, and removes any excess weight. The reel is also preloaded with backing so you can immediately head for your favorite fishing spot as soon as the rod is snapped together. Ideal for beginners and experienced fly fishermen, you also have the benefit of the included manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
This fly fishing rod and reel combo comes with a durable and well balanced construction that is backed by a limited warranty.
Since there are not any tools required to snap the rod together you can use this setup right out of the box.
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2. Wild Water Fly Fishing Deluxe Rod and Reel Combo 4 Piece
There is a reason this fly fishing rod and reel combo has some of the highest reviews on Amazon that include its lifetime warranty and helpful customer service department. Everything you need to start fly fishing is included in this kit. Designed for beginners and often used by professionals, this starter package is well worth its cost.
In the kit you will find a protective sock and carrying case for the rod, along with a convenient “fly box”. This small box contains several lures, and the divided compartments help you stay organized. The kit also includes a spare leader, which is always nice to have around.
The most important parts of this kit are the sturdy rod and reel. The 9 foot rod easily breaks down into 4 separate pieces for convenient storage, and its durable construction is well balanced and comfortable to handle. The large reel is preloaded so you can immediately start fishing, and you will also appreciate its smooth and powerful drag system.
Pros
The slow action rod is durable, flexible, and ideal for beginners who are just learning how to cast.
The large arbor reel is already preloaded with line, and its smooth drag system helps to ensure your hook is securely set.
Everything you need to start fly fishing is included in this starter kit, including lures and a spare leader.
Cons
It should be mentioned that this is a slow action rod, and it is not designed to pull in medium or heavy fish.
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3. South Bend 228515-SSI Crystal River Fly Combo
Manufactured by Crystal River, this fly fishing combo set will have you casting for trout on your favorite river. Perfect for beginners and experienced anglers, everything you need to get started is included in this convenient kit.
The eight foot rod breaks down into three pieces for convenient storage, and comes with a durable graphite body that is sturdy and flexible. The green glass blank is sensitive to the slightest nibble, and is dark color won’t reflect light that might scare away fish. The stainless steel hood gives the rod a professional appearance, and the graphite seat securely holds the large reel in place.
You will appreciate the large reel that smoothly releases the line, and the fact that it is preloaded is a welcome bonus. With two flies included with the kit, you can start fly fishing right out of the box. The reel also comes with a right hand retrieval which leaves you other hand free to handle the rod. With an aluminum guide and general fly fishing instructions included, even first time anglers can successfully cast with this rod and reel combo.
Pros
This starter kit comes with directions on tying basic knots used in fishing, along with a general “how to” guide that is perfect for beginners.
The sturdy rod is lightweight and well balanced for more accurate casts.
Cons
It should be noted that this fly fishing rod is constructed from a durable plastic, which might not be strong enough to reel in anything other than small freshwater fish.
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4. Plusinno Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Every rod and reel combo designed for fly fishing has to be light, efficient, and sensitive enough to give you the opportunity to react quickly whenever the fish bites. Fortunately, this combo manages to encompass all of these requirements as it’s designed for the purpose and raises up to par under all circumstances.
The pole in this setup is light and easy to handle and hold, which is why there’s little to no chance of you ever becoming tired when you’re out on your fishing trip. The pole is slender and user-friendly and boasts 30-ton carbon fiber blanks and an excellent handle made out of wood.
The tip is more than sensitive and can flex under both lighter and heavier loads, and that’s all without a flinch. Plus, the graphite rod is a pleasure to work with, as emphasized by the many anglers who have used it in the past.
As with many other combos we have come across, this particular one comes with a diecast super large arbor spool reel that has been made out of aluminum. The value provided by this setup is next to impressive, especially as the kit doesn’t even cost a fortune and has garnered the widespread appreciation of many fly fishers.
Pros
This starter combo includes the basic gear you need to successfully learn fly fishing: the rod and reel, fishing line and some lures to get you started. All these are within a 2.3 feet case that allows you to carry and store the product easily.
Superlight (4 oz) and super thin, the 8 feet rod is made out of rolled 30 ton Toray carbon fiber that delivers a good performance.
The set features adjustable metal reel seat so that you can position the reel according to your needs. It ensures a tight fit, avoiding loose swing when you’re bringing in the fish.
The cork handle makes the combo comfortable to use and adds durability while the strong rear end gives the rod the backbone it needs for casting and retrieving.
The super large aluminum arbor spool design and Teflon disk drag make for an efficient and enduring reel.
Cons
The carbon fiber rod is under a lot of stress when flexing and can snap easily.
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5. Orvis Encounter 5-weight 9′ Fly Rod Outfit
While some, including the manufacturing brand, might argue that this combo is one of the most affordable choices available for sale these days, the fact of the matter is that it all depends on what you are willing to spend on such a setup. Granted, it is not nearly as expensive as many of its competitors, but the market now holds many offers for various other budget-friendly options.
The Orvis Encounter boasts a large arbor reel and a smooth and reliable rod that can offer you just the performance you might have been looking for. Since it is considerably heavier than other units out there, it’s worth noting that this unit can help you catch as much trout as possible.
Plus, since this is a 4-piece rod, you’ll be able to take it everywhere with you. Something that needs to be noted, in this sense, is that this particular design is both beneficial and convenient as there have been little to no complaints in regards to assembling the combo on-site.
Most of the anglers who have decided to invest in the Orvis Encounter say that it is an outstanding choice for entry-level fly fishermen and women despite the reel having made out of plastic.
Pros
The 4 piece rod is packaged with a starter kit containing the reel, weight-forward floating line, backing, and leader. Although it doesn’t contain any lures, the gear is sufficient for a learning setup and experienced anglers have a high opinion on it as well.
The hard and sturdy travel case is very useful and looks great. About 31 ½ inch long and 2 ½ inch diameter. Cloth reel case.
It’s easy to use. The line is already in the reel, so you can start fishing right away and if you need to switch from left to right hand, you’re facing an effortless task.
The rod is carbon fiber plastic, durable and strong. Mid-flex or medium fast action make the combo suitable for dry fly, nymph or streamer fishing. Smallmouth bass and brown trout are easy targets.
Cons
The line it comes with is of a lower quality, so you should consider replacing it.
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Choosing the right fly fishing combo
Fly fishing requires plenty of patience and practice. It can be done in fresh or saltwater, and the unique casting technique used in fly fishing requires the right gear. Along with a weighted line and “hand tied” flies, you also need the right rod and reel. In this buying guide you will find informative tips that will help you choose the best fly fishing rod and reel.
Choosing the best fly fishing rod
A fly fishing rod should be able to provide leverage and control, along with being comfortable to handle. Where you will be fishing and the type of fish you are casting for will affect the rod’s construction, and should be considered before you make a final decision. The type of reel you use should also be considered, and this is one of the reasons why some experienced anglers recommend choosing a rod and reel combo.
Fly Fishing Rod Construction
Fly fishing rods are generally constructed from fiberglass or a graphite material. Often the best fly fishing combos come with a rod constructed from fiberglass, which is durable, sturdy and less expensive than graphite. While graphite rods are priced higher, you do have the advantage of the lightweight construction and extremely accurate casting abilities.
Fly Fishing Rod Action
The type of “action” a rod has refers to its flexibility. Slow action rods are extremely flexible and are ideal for making short, accurate casts when you are going after small game fish. Medium action rods are generally recommended for beginners, since they are easy to control and can be used in a variety of settings. Experienced anglers often prefer to cast with a fast action rod, which is designed to successfully reel in larger fish. Less flexible than other types of rods, it is ideal for making longer casts.
Fly Fishing Rod Length
The length of the rod will depend on where you fishing, along with your level of expertise. Short rods for fly fishing are usually stiffer than longer models, but since they are less than 8 feet in length it is the perfect choice for casting around low hanging branches and narrow streams. Medium size rods measure 8 to 9 feet and are ideal for beginners and experienced fly fishermen. These rods have more flexibility, can support heavier weights, and can be used almost anywhere. Medium length rods are also capable of producing longer casts. Rods measuring 9 to 15 feet are generally only used by experienced anglers to reel in large salt water fish, and are not recommended for beginners.
Fly Fishing Rod Grips
The rod should be comfortable to use, which is why it is important to consider the type of grip. Not only does this ensure the rod is comfortable to grasp, it can also prevent it from slipping out of wet hands when you are fighting to reel in a large fish. Rods with cigar style grips use a thin layer of cork and are generally found on lightweight models designed to reel in small fish. Half well grips are commonly used on medium weight rods and flare slightly to prevent it from slipping out of your hands. Heavier fly fishing rods should come with full well grips which are comfortable to grasp when you are fighting to bring in a large game fish.
Choosing the best fly fishing reel
While you do want to choose a quality reel, it is not as important as the rod used in fly fishing. Some anglers simply recommend choosing a combo that includes a reel designed specifically for their preferred rod. There are a few factors to consider ensuring that the reel is able to give you the smooth performance you need for a successful fishing trip.
The reel should be lightweight so you can easily cast with your wrist, and you also want it to be resistant to corrosion if you plan on fly fishing in saltwater. Well oiled gears can ensure a smooth performance, and you want the reel to be large enough to hold the line and backing. The length of the cast, along with the size of the fish will help determine which reel size is right for you. Some of the best fly rod and reel combos include the line and backing already spooled so all you have to do is tie a lightweight lure on to start fishing.
Fly Fishing Reel Maintenance
Taking care of your fly fishing reel is important if you want it to continue to function properly, and it can also save you money on replacement costs. This is especially important if you are fly fishing in saltwater which can cause the metal parts to corrode.
To keep your reel performing smoothly it is important to remove the line and backing after each trip. Rinsing the reel with soap and warm water can remove any dirt and saltwater. To prevent rust and corrosion the metal parts should be carefully dried, and some reels require frequent oiling to ensure a smooth performance. Most experts recommend cleaning a reel at least four times a year to prolong its life, and for optimal performance.
How to choose fly fishing line
The line used for fly fishing is usually heavier so the lightweight lure can be easily propelled forward during the cast. The type of rod that you are using and the size of the fish will help you choose the right weighted line. Fly fishing lines range in scale from 1 to 15, and you can find the weight you need listed on the rod’s packaging. Most medium action rods use a 3 to 4 pound line, while professional sport fishermen often opt for a heavier weight.
Summary
Whether you choose a combo or purchase you rod and reel separately, you want to make sure it comes with a durable and well balanced construction. It should also be comfortable to handle, and designed for your skill level. Once you have determined where and what you are fishing for, choosing the right gear will be much easier.
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