Best Beginner Fly Rod Combos 2022

The first challenge with beginning to fly fish is simply finding the right equipment. Anyone that’s learned how to fly fish knows that getting started can be intimidating. Let’s face it, choosing a fly rod, reel, combo, or line to suit your casting style, fishing situations, and budget is overwhelming. Specialized fly rods and lines are often designed to excel with one specific technique. Fly fishing reels are made with many different drag systems, countless different sizes (they’re all displayed differently), and are frequently designed for a specific purpose or type of rod. Undoubtedly the most important piece of equipment, the fly line, choices have exploded in recent years with a highly specialized fly line for every fly rod style, species, type of fly, fishing situation, fishing technique, casting technique, etc.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a high-quality rod and reel combo these days. Technology advancements over the years have vastly improved the quality of the majority of the gear on the market today. A quality beginner fly rod combo from a reputable brand like Sage, Redington, Orvis, TFO, Echo, Greys, or Fenwick will outperform the best rod and reel outfits from a decade ago. Each of these manufacturers offer quality fly fishing kits that include rod, reel, line, backing, leader, rod tube, and warranty with prices starting around $150.

Newer anglers are encouraged to get outfitted with the help of their local fly shop, another avid fly angler, or other fly fishing expert. Starting out with quality gear that is perfectly suited for you will exponentially increase your enjoyment and success, which almost certainly will develop into a lifelong passion. Make a mistake up front with your gear, and you’re in for some frustrating days, and may end up eventually quitting the sport.

Shop With An Expert

Want to love what you buy? Let us outfit you virtually, like you’re here at the shop. It’s free. Our curated shopping experience brings the local fly shop experience to you and connects you with a fly fishing expert. Our friendly Pro Staff has helped countless new anglers start their fly fishing journey on the proper path with the right gear.

Choose a convenient day/time below. One of our expert gear heads will send a zoom meeting invite and we’ll be ready to help you gear up for adventure.