Last updated on July 13th, 2021
Fly fishing is a fantastic sport, and if you are getting into the sport, you will need to know how you can select the best fly fishing combo, especially for beginners. The best should allow you to improve your skills, work in different settings as you push yourself to enjoy different techniques while on water.
While starting, you have been bombarded with various basic gears of fly-fishing reels, rods, and lines. These come with different specifications that can make it difficult to choose from since they will not make much sense. You end up wondering whether weight should matter or if the gear should be made in a certain way.
You should know that different manufacturers specifically design these combos to meet specific individual needs. Below, we have compiled a guide to help you choose the best fly fishing combo for beginners just like you.
What Is a Fly Fishing Combo?
Before we dive into the buying guide of a fly fishing combo, we start by explaining what a fly fishing combo is. A combo is a combination of two or more items, and in this case, a fly-fishing combo consists of the following.
- Fly line
- Fly rod
- Fly line backing
- Fly reel
These items are what make up a fly fishing combo. They are the most important equipment you will need when getting into the fly-fishing sport. Fly-fishing is an incredible sport, and if you are looking to start, you have to be ready to spend a few bucks as it’s an expensive sport. Without these four items, you will not be able to make a cast while fly-fishing.
Fly-Fishing Combo Considerations For Beginners
Now that you know what a fly fishing combo is, so here you can find the considerations as a beginner when choosing the best.
- Budget
As a new angler, you will have to set a budget first before you even think of purchasing any combo. You don’t need to go for the most expensive because it might not offer what you or it may have equipment that you can’t use as a beginner.
Furthermore, the cheapest combo may not give you the best performance, which will only leave you frustrated. However, with a medium-priced combo, you can get equipment that will allow you to improve your fly-fishing skills while you enjoy the performance you get from it.
- Weight
The weight of the equipment will also matter. For example, go for a combo with a fly rod weighing just enough, depending on what you will be fishing. As you know, not all fish weigh the same. Plus the weight of the fly rod will also determine the weight of the fly line and the fly reel you will be using.
The weight will also determine how versatile the rod will be. Weight consideration will also play a great key, especially when it comes to fly-fishing for longer periods.
- Length
Consider the length of the fly rod as it is essential for any beginner. The best length for a fly rod should be between 8.5 feet to 9 feet. However, if you are looking at fishing small fish, then the length can be shorter than that. With such lengths, you will manage the rod well as you improve on your skills.
- Material
Look for a combo that comes with a fly reel and a fly rod made from high-quality materials. For example, as a beginner, you will need equipment that will be durable and allow you to enjoy fly-fishing without any inconveniences. A water-resistant fly reel makes the reel rust-proof, while a fly rod made from stainless steel will not bend or break easily.
- Versatility
For any beginner, go for a combo that has a medium action fly rod. This kind of fly rod is more versatile than any other fly rods, and it is effortless to learn with. You can learn quickly with a fly rod made just for you with this kind of fly rod.
- Brand
Consider some of the best fly fishing combo brands as they offer great packages depending on individual needs. As a beginner purchasing a fly-fishing combo from a reputable brand, you will not only get value for your money, but it is also unlikely that you will have constant complaints about the equipment.
Pros and cons
Now that you know how to choose a fly-fishing combo, we will take you through the pros and cons of investing in a fly-fishing combo. Let’s start with the pros.
Pros
- Buying a fly-fishing combo makes it less expensive than purchasing the necessary fly equipment individually. Individual items are more expensive, especially when you have to buy many essential items for fly-fishing.
- It is more convenient to purchase a fly-fishing combo as everything comes fitting the other. The fly reel comes with fly line backing as the fly line comes spooled on the reel. As a beginner, you will not have to struggle to get them together, unlike individual fly equipment.
- Everything arrives, matching the other. The fly rod, fly reel will all match the weight of the fly line.
- They also come when they are well balanced.
Cons
The only con about buying a fly-fishing combo is if you have some of the items already. For example, you may already have a fly rod or fly reel; only then will it make sense t buy other equipment individually.
Otherwise, as a beginner, it only makes sense to buy a fly-fishing combo, and the reasons are there for you to see.
Conclusion
That brings us to the end of our guide on choosing the best fly fishing combo for beginners. There are many things to consider as these will allow you to grow and improve on the sport.
We also compiled for you why it is crucial and a good idea to invest in a fly-fishing combo instead of purchasing the items individually. We hope this guide will take you a step closer to owning your first fly fishing combo.
