Why a Fiberglass Rod
Should be your Next Fly Rod!
By Guest Writer: Jon Hill
If you are looking for ferocious fights, soft precise fly presentations, and the chance to get your knuckles rapped every time you hook up, look no further than a fiberglass fly rod!
Whether you want to change things up and replace your carbon fiber/graphite rod with a fiberglass one, or you’re interested in adding something unique to your collection, here's the information you need to help determine the most accurate weight and length of your new custom rod.
A fairly standard option is the 3 wt. Ranging in sizes from 6' to 7' 6" in length, this rod is perfect if you’re new to fiberglass, or are looking for something sturdy that can be used in a variety of conditions.
I enjoy using my 3 wt in smaller creeks and streams when casting short distances or roll casting - dropping the fly exactly where you want it. With the full flex design of the fiberglass, slowing your cast down is a must - letting the rod help load the line - instead of doing all the work yourself. Once you hook, fight, and net your first brookie with your 3 wt., you'll understand exactly why these rods are becoming so popular.
Next up is the 4 and 5 wt. fiberglass. These range in size from 7' to 8' in length, and are better suited for rivers and lakes. A 5 wt. will cast streamers and heavier nymphs exactly where you want them to go. The flex and taper of the fiberglass, which becomes obvious when you’re hooking into a large rainbow trout or smallmouth bass, makes this type of fly fishing so much more enjoyable. With the smooth casting and gentle yet strong hookset, landing all sizes of fish with fiberglass is a blast.
Stepping up into the 7 wt. range of fiberglass fly rods, the ideal fish to target would be carp, largemouth bass, small tarpon, and the like. Meant to be used in larger rivers while throwing big streamers, the accuracy you can achieve when casting one of these is exactly what is needed for these types of fish. If you find yourself scouting for spooky carp or throwing buggers all day for pike and muskie out of a boat, the 7 wt. fiberglass is right up your alley.
When you think of saltwater fly fishing, you probably don't think of fiberglass, but an 8', 8 wt. fiberglass rod was designed for just that scenario. Casting heavy, articulated streamers or your favorite salt flies for bonefish, salmon, redfish, steelhead, and even golden dorado, you’ll discover the taper and casting ability of an 8 wt. fiberglass in salt is just what was missing from your rod collection.
Whether you are wanting a custom made fly rod created just for you, or are interested in building one yourself, Yellowfin Custom Fly Rods has you covered.
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