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Best salmon fly rod of 2024 – buyer’s guide.

Last updated on May 21st, 2024.

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Many anglers around the globe consider catching salmon the pinnacle of fly fishing.

The Atlantic Salmon is often termed the “King of Fish”. For centuries it has attracted fly fishermen and women to travel to remote rivers in search of the mighty silver bars. The wild rivers of Scotland such as the Tay, the Spey or the Dee where the spey technique (fishing with two handed rods) originated have attracted British upper class to hunt this elusive species.

They didn’t stop there but started to explore other countries famous for Atlantic Salmon such as Norway, Iceland or Canada to name only a few. To catch an Atlantic Salmon you need endurance most of all. It can take days or even weeks to convince a fish to take your fly. Why they can occasionally be fooled is still not known. Some assume they go for a fly out of a reflex or territorial behavior. Others think they can get annoyed by a fly swinging by them when they are holding in a pool on their exhausting journey up the mighty rivers to spawn.

Another appeal of fly fishing for salmon certainly is the amazing landscape the fishing takes place in. Envision remote places in Northern Scandinavia, Canada or amongst the vulcanos of Iceland. The same holds true for other sought after types of salmon, such as Pacific salmon or King salmon. The one thing all these beautiful fish have in common in their strength. They won’t give up without a fight once you’ve managed to hook into one of them. Hence you need a strong rod and reel that can handle their power. In order to make it easier for you to pick a rod that will suit you, we’ve compiled this big guide of the best salmon fly rod .

To facilitate your decision making, we have broken this guide down into three sections: first we’ll take a look at some of the best double-handed fly rods for salmon on the market. Next up will be a comparison of some of the best single-hand rods for salmon and last but not least we’ll take a look at fly rod combos for salmon . These are the best choice if you are a little inexperienced in picking the right equipment and want to make sure you’re rod and reel will work together properly.

Overview of Salmon Fly Rods

A salmon setup can get a little complicated when you’re just starting out. To make it easier for you, here is the essential difference between fishing for salmon with one two handed-rods vs. single-handed rods.

Double-Handed Rods: Spey Casting

Fishing with double-handed rods originated on the big rivers of Scotland such as the river Spey (hence the name spey casting). The idea behind it was the to cover a lot of water by swinging flies for salmon. This means you cast your line across and a little downstream and then let the current do the rest. This way the fly swings by the salmon holding in the river and ideally prompts them to strike.

Spey casting is done using double-handed rods in the 12ft to 15ft range using shooting heads. Compared to a single-handed rods where a lot of casting is done overhead (apart from the roll cast) , double-handed techniques use waterborne casts a lot. In this review we’ll focus on travel fly rods for salmon that most often come in 6 pieces as double handed ones. We have grown fond of these rods since they can pack into a big suitcase and hence make travelling a lot easier than having to bring a rod case as an extra piece of luggage.

Single Hand Rods

The other type of fly rod that is commonly used to catch salmon on a fly is a single hand rod in the #9 range. This means it’s a strong rod that can handle fish of 25+ lbs. A single hand rod is a good choice if the river you’re fishing is smaller and you don’t have to cast too far. Another use case for these rods is fishing from a boat or canoe for example. The rods are fished with integrated fly lines or even shooting heads, depending on your preference.

Now that you know the basic differences between double-handed and single-handed rods for salmon fishing, we can dive right into the review of the best salmon fly rod of 2024 .

Notice: We use affiliate marketing in this article. This means we might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click on one of the links provided in this article and end up purchasing a rod. We never get paid for a review and only recommend products we use and are convinced of ourselves. Thanks!

Best Fly Rods for Salmon Fishing

Loop zt travel.

For years Loop has been one of the crowd’s favorites when it comes to salmon fly rods. During the pandemic when global travel came to a halt, the brand used the slow down to create a new salmon fly rod series focused on travelling once it would be possible again. The result is the Loop ZT Travel, a series of multi-piece rods that perfectly matches strength and lightness. With its blue design details it also stands out amongst more traditional salmon fly rods.

The Loop ZT Travel is available in five unique models that are truly a showstopper, exceling each other which makes it hard to choose from all of them. The lineup starts with a 12’2″ #6 which is the way to good if you are looking for a delicate presentation and mostly fish smaller rivers and grilse runs for example. The 13’2″ #8 is a great allrounder that we used on bigger Norwegian rivers and had no problems with covering big distances. If you are looking for the strongest rod to catch the biggest salmon, go for the 15’0″ version as this one will take on any challenge.

GET IT AT LOOP

GET IT AT HOOKÉ

GET IT AT ZEFIX (if you’re in Europe)

Guideline LPX Chrome T pack

The Guideline LPX Chrome T pack is another great and very versatile salmon travel fly rod that comes in six pieces and different weight and line class options. If you’ve fished in Scandinavia before, you surely have come across Guideline. The brand has garnered many fans amongst fly fishermen and women across the continent for their high quality products and a good price point.

Salmon fishing is ingrained in Guideline’s DNA and the new Guideline LPX Chrome T pack is a masterpiece when it comes to salmon fly rods. We got our hands on the 12’9″ #8/9 version and loved its power combined with a very smooth taper design. If you are looking for an allrounder that can handle basically any situation you’ll face when out salmon fishing, you can’t go wrong with the Guideline LPX Chrome T pack. Just like the Loop ZT Travel, the Guideline comes in various different sizing options ranging from a 12’3″ #6/7 for smaller rivers and flies all the way up to a 14’9″ if you plan on fishing the biggest and widest salmon rivers of Norway such as the Alta for example.

GET IT AT GUIDELINE

GET IT AT SERIOUS FISHING

Hardy Ultralite NSX Spey

The Hardy Ultralite NSX Spey works perfectly under a two handed set up as it truly fits “two hands are better than one” perfectly. The traditional brand from the UK has acquired many fans amongst the salmon community and also steelheaders are liking the Hardy Ultralite NSX Spey.

Just as with the Loop and Guideline rods, you can choose from a variety of different lengths and weight classes if you go for the Hardy Ultralite NSX Spey. A highlight of their lineup certainly is the #10/11 that measures in at a mighty 16ft. This is the go to rod if you know the salmon river you’re fishing is wide and holds the biggest of fish. If you’re looking for a good allrounder, go for the 13’6″ as a #8/9.

Two handed spey

Medium to fast speed action

Suitable for all kinds of rivers

GET IT AT TRIDENT

GET IT AT HARDY

Thomas and Thomas Spey

If you’re looking for a high-end spey rod to take on Atlantic and Pacific Salmon around the globe, make sure to check out the Thomas and Thomas Spey. The American manufacturer has made a name for itself to build some of the finest and most reliable fly rods on the planet. The Thomas and Thomas Spey is no exception to this rule.

Available in multiple sizes ranging from a #5 (great for sea run brown trout and smaller steelhead rivers as well) all the way up to a #10 (15ft), the lineup includes the right double handed fly rod for salmon for any fly fisherman or woman. Made from the best components such as Fuji stripping guides, Aluminum reel seats and rod tubes, the Thomas and Thomas Spey provides everything you looking for in a high end salmon rod. Comes with a lifetime warranty.

GET IT AT TACKLE DIRECT

Sage Igniter Spey

An extra fast-action rod made in the USA: introducing the Sage Igniter Spey. These rods have incredible loading power, making them the perfect companion for any kind of double-handed fishing, no matter if it’s happening in freshwater or in saltwater. Made from the best components, the Sage Igniter Spey features the brand’s KonnecticHD technology that ensures a great energy transfer throughout the entire cast.

You’ll have a hard time finding a Spey Rod that can cast tighter loops and create more line speed. Weight options ranging from #5 to #10. Just like the Thomas and Thomas, the Sage Igniter Spey comes with a lifetime warranty for the original owner.

Powder Coated Aluminum Rod Tube

Lifetime Warranty

KonneticHD Technology

Downlocking with Gunmetal Anodized Aluminum

Ultra-Light Hard Chromed Snake Guides

GET IT AT VAIL VALLEY ANGLERS

Echo Full Spey

Rajeff Sports have released an allrounder, versatile series that are jaw dropping and absolutely fantastic. Introducing the Echo Full Spey series that have three unique models – a 13’ 6wt, 13’ 7wt, and a 13’ 8wt. A rod of 13′ is a great allrounder that will be able to cover almost any fishing situation you might encounter.

Just like its more expensive competitors, the Echo Full Spey features high-end components such as a reel seat made from anodised aluminum. The lightweight rods are a delight to cast and are a great choice for fly fishermen looking for solid performance at half the price of many of the premium manufacturers.

Lightweight High-Modulus Blank

SiC Stripping Guides

Anodized Aluminum

Fabric-Covered Rod Tube

Medium rod action

Orvis Mission Spey

The Orvis Mission Spey is designed especially for beginners as these rods are well made and highly versatile in its usage. Built with Helios 3 Technology, Orvis Mission rods present a medium-fast action blank and cater to a variety of casting styles. Its features include:

Type III Anodized Aluminum with Double Downlocking Component

Aluminum Rod Tube

25-year guarantee

GET IT AT ORVIS

Single Hand Salmon Fly Rods

If you have never fished with a two-handed rod or are intimated by the thought of swinging a fly rod of 13′ or more, don’t worry, you can surely catch your first salmon on a single-handed rod. Here are a few options to choose from.

Atlas Signature

Key features:

– #8, #9 and #10 available, all in 9ft

– Highend rod at an affordable price

– 3 year warranty

Why we picked it:

The Atlas Signature series ( read our in-depth review here ) is a newcomer on the salmon rod market. Created by Ben Freeman of Trident Fly Fishing, Atlas aims at offering premium performance at a mid-level price. We were quite impressed by this rod’s punch and precision. Since it comes as an #8, #9 and #10 rod, the Signature is an excellent choice for salmon fishing (and pike fishing as well for example).

The Atlas has plenty of backbone to cast long distances and to fight strong predators like King, Chinook or also Atlantic salmon. Besides its inner qualities I also really liked its subtle, yet elegant look that portrays its premium ambition featuring a beautiful dark grey/blue blank. A three year warranty is a great offer as well. In my eyes, this is the perfect single hand salmon rod for anybody who wants premium performance at a moderate price ($499). If you can live without the prestige of big brands such as Sage, G. Loomis or T&T, the Atlas Signature is for you.

• Great accuracy and precision
• Subtle and modern looks
• Three year warranty is included
• The only little weak spot we found on this rod is at short distance

GET IT AT ATLAS

Winston Air Salt

– Graphite rod tube

– Stunning, dark green blank color

– Lifetime guarantee

The Winston Air Salt ( read our in-depth review here ) is an excellent premium salmon fly rod that combines the understated elegance of Winston with a lot of punch and casting stability. I’ve found that the Air salt can handle all sorts of situations you’ll encounter in salmon fishing. One of its weaker spots is the fact that it does thrive on casting big streamers, hence salmon fishing is a great environment when you often fish streamers of smaller sizes. Great thing about the Winston is the fact that it also shines in saltwater environments and is corrosion proof.

In the Saltwater Air, the Montana manufacturer employs its well-established Boron technology that makes these fly rods 25% stronger than other graphite rods, a crucial feature if you put your rod to the ultimate test of strong species such as salmon. What sets the Saltwater Air apart in my eyes are the details, with the rod tube matching the color of the fly rod’s blank. The beige-coloured rod sock with the Winston logo further adds to the premium feel of the Winston. A rod that casts and looks exceptionally well.

• Fast action rod that feels more like a medium fast in real life
• Shines at mid-range (great for salmon fishing)
• Most beautiful blank color in the game
• The fighting butt it a bit clunky (at least on the #7)

GET IT AT THE RIVER’S EDGE

GET IT ON AMAZON

Douglas Era

The pocket friendly Douglas Era is a great single-handed fly rod for salmon if you are just getting started with this exciting species. Great thing is that you can use it for other big predators such as pike , carp or musky as well. The NY-based brand has made a name for itself with its already legendary Sky G series that is considered by many to be one of the best trout fly rods on the planet.

The Douglas Era is quite light weight yet delivers quite a fast action parallel to its reliable precision and accuracy. At only $169, the Douglas Era even come with a lifetime warranty. A great entry-level rod that also makes for a great fly fishing gift .

Graphite Blank

Cordura rod tube with an integrated rod sleeve

Best for: Dry flies, Wet flies, Streamers and Nymphs

Fast Action

Salmon Fly Rods and Reels

Picking the right setup for salmon fishing can be a little intimidating at times. If you want to make sure your rod and reel work together nicely, you can opt for a salmon fly rod combo . These sets consisting of salmon fly rods and reels have been put together by expert anglers and will certainly work the way you want them to.

Penn Battle

– #8 or #10 available, both measuring 9ft (in 4 pieces)

– Rod, reel, line and backing included in the set

– Large arbor reel for quick line pickup

The Penn Battle Fly Rod Outfit ( read our in-depth review here ) is a great salmon fly rod combo at a decent price. You can choose between an #8 which is great for targeting salmon in smaller rivers or estuaries. If you’re after bigger ones such as Atlantics, go for a #10. The Penn Battle Fly Rod combo comes in a nice cordura rod and reel case which makes it easy to bring the set on any salmon fishing trip.

The rod in this set features a nice, slightly old school blank design. The darker blank color helps when fishing in brighter conditions since it won’t reflect sun rays as much. The reel sits nicely in the real seat and features a large arbor design (which is crucial in salmon fishing since these fish often make fast runs at you). The reel also sports a solid drag, which, again, is crucial in salmon fishing. Included in the set is a weight forward line that is a great allrounder. If you need to get down deep for salmon holding in pools, you can always exchange it for an intermediate or even full sinker.

All in all, this is a great salmon fly rod combo for beginners and intermediates alike.

• Nicely balanced reel and rod combo with enough backbone to cast big streamers
• Rod and reel case included
• Retro design gives it a cool touch
• If we could pick a wish, it would be a slight upgrade to the casting performance of the rod

G ET IT ON AMAZON

GET IT AT BASS PRO SHOPS

GET IT AT CABELAS

Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit

As an #8, the Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit ( read our in-depth review here ) makes for an excellent entry level rod if you want to try salmon fishing. It has enough power and backbone to stop even bigger fish. Chrome snake and stripping guides are the feature of a high-end rod. This set comes with a Clearwater II reel and fly line and Dacron backing.

All you have to do is pick the leader of your choice and the desired fly. Comes with Orvis’ 25 year guarantee in case something should break.

Clearwater fly rod

Clearwater II reel

Clearwater fly line

75 yds. 20-lb. Dacron backing

Conclusion on the Best Salmon Fly Rod

All in all, these are the top picks of the best fly rods for salmon 2024 . All you have to do is make up your mind in terms of whether you want to give salmon fishing a try with a single-handed rod or if you want to get into spey casting using a double handed rod.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between double-handed and single-handed salmon fly rods?

Double-handed (spey) fly rods are longer rods, typically 12 to 15 feet, designed for two-handed casting techniques used in larger rivers. Single-handed fly rods are shorter, ranging from 8.5 to 10 feet, and are used for one-handed casting in various fishing environments.

Which type of salmon fly rod is best for me, double-handed or single-handed?

Choosing between double-handed and single-handed rods depends on factors like fishing location, casting style, and personal preference. Double-handed rods are advantageous for covering large waters, while single-handed rods offer versatility for smaller rivers and different fishing techniques.

What rod weight should I choose for salmon fishing?

For double-handed rods, a common weight range is 7 to 10, while single-handed rods usually range from 7 to 9. The appropriate weight depends on the size of the salmon species you’re targeting and the fishing conditions.

What action (fast, medium, slow) should I consider for salmon fly rods?

Medium to fast action rods are generally preferred for salmon fishing, as they provide the power needed for casting larger flies and handling the fight of strong salmon.

Can I use a double-handed rod for single-handed casting or vice versa?

While it’s possible to use a double-handed rod for single-handed casting by using the bottom grip, it may not provide the best balance or casting experience. Single-handed rods, on the other hand, aren’t designed for two-handed casting techniques like spey casting.

What are the advantages of using a double-handed salmon rod?

Double-handed rods excel in situations where long casts and efficient line management are crucial. They’re ideal for covering large rivers, making mends, and managing heavy lines for various casting techniques.

Can I use a salmon fly rod for other types of fishing?

Salmon fly rods can be versatile and used for other species and fishing scenarios, provided they’re appropriately sized and weighted. However, keep in mind that their specific design might not be optimal for certain techniques.

Are there different line types recommended for double-handed and single-handed salmon rods?

Yes, the line selection for double-handed and single-handed rods can differ. Double-handed rods often use specialized spey lines, while single-handed rods use traditional weight-forward or specialty lines based on the rod’s weight and action.

What about rod length? How does it affect casting and fishing?

Rod length impacts casting distance and line control. Longer rods, like double-handed spey rods, excel at longer casts and mending, making them suitable for larger rivers. Shorter single-handed rods offer more accuracy and versatility for various fishing environments.

What other factors should I consider when choosing a salmon fly rod?

Consider the type of water you’ll be fishing, the size of salmon species, the casting techniques you prefer, and the overall balance and feel of the rod. Testing different rods before purchasing can help you find the one that suits your preferences and fishing style.

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12 of the best salmon rods

Tested: a dozen shorter rods — 12ft 9in to 13ft 7in — for all-season fishing

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LOOKING FOR A NEW FLY ROD IS always a mixture of excitement and trepidation. We all like to try something new, whether it’s a make or model we’ve never owned before or the latest model to replace an old favourite from a trusted brand. My advice is to treat yourself if you can afford it.

Advances in materials and manufacturing techniques have improved the performance of modern rods and they’ve become easier to cast than ever before, but this brings with it considerations before you make your choice.

Stronger and lighter materials mean a modern 13ft—13½ft double-hander is largely capable of doing what the standard 15-footer would have done only a few years ago. Lightness also means less fatigue during a day’s fishing.

I tested 12 new models, from a variety of leading brands. It was a thoroughly enjoyable  and interesting exercise that I hope will give  you an insight into what’s available in different price categories.

I’m fully aware that personal preferences play their part in a buying decision (favourite brands, price, preferred lines and casting styles). I have based my findings on each rod’s individual performance. Happily, I have been able to identify several quality rods to match the depth of most pockets. However, double-handed rods are a significant investment.

Every rod I tested was cast with at least four different lines to establish their strengths and weaknesses. These were: Rio Scandi taper (8wt and 9wt), Rio Outbound 8wt, Rio Skagit Max  Launch 600grain 8/9wt, and an 8/9wt Short  Head Spey Line.

AIRFLO AIRLITE V2

£379.99 13ft, 8/9wt, 4pc

Apart from a slightly bulky feel in the hand when compared with some of the other 13-footers, the Airlite performed well. The Rio Scandi 9wt line worked best, as the 8wt Outbound felt a little light, so I feel it’s more a true 9wt than an 8/9wt. The short-headed spey line and skagit made the blank load slightly deeper, as you might expect. A versatile rod, performing well with different casting strokes, although it preferred a shorter stroke to get the best from it, producing reasonably good tip recovery, too.

“A versatile rod, performing well with different casting strokes”

Contact Airflo   Tel 01874 618 518  Web airflofishing.com

£569.99 13ft 6in, 8/9wt, 4pc

A powerful rod with a medium-fast action, which comfortably achieved longer casts. The Wing showed good tip recovery, accuracy and efficiency when cast and is a deeper loading blank than its GR series predecessors. It handled all four lines used in the test, although I felt the lower 8wt rating provided a sharper feel and a better presentation. The captive reel band used on new Greys rods is a user-friendly touch.

“Good tip recovery, accuracy and efficiency”

Contact Pure Fishing  Tel 01665 602 771  Web greysfishing.co.uk

GUIDELINE NT11

£939.99 12ft 9in, 8/9wt, 6pc

Such an easy rod to cast, it preferred a shorter stroke, but was versatile and forgiving and had a very comfortable feel in the hand. It performed with all the lines, but I believe it is closer to a 9wt rating. It was very accurate at all distances, felt light, and its sweetspot was easy to find from the outset. Although only 12ft 9in, it performed as well as any of the longer rods tested and the fact that it’s a six-piece rod is an absolute bonus for the travelling angler (or you can hide it away in a car). A real all-round beauty!

“Its sweetspot was easy to find from the outset”

Contact Guideline  Tel 07973 291 367  Web guidelineflyfish.com

HARDY AYDON

£779.99 12ft 9in, 8/9wt, 4pc

A comfortable yet powerful rod that cast the 8wt and 9wt shooting heads well. The 8wt scandi line crispened the action somewhat, and both the 8wt Outbound and spey line gave it an appealing, light feel. It offered a relaxed and comfortable delivery, (always a good thing) but when coupled with the skagit, it achieved a much deeper action than some of the other 8/9 weights tested, so maybe a slightly lighter skagit would suit this rod. An accurate fishing rod when matched to the right line.

“An accurate fishing rod when matched to the right line”

Contact Pure Fishing  Tel 01665 602 771  Web hardyfishing.co.uk

MACKENZIE FX2 ATLAS

£1,059 13ft 7in, 9wt, 6pc

This rod surprised me in a good way. In previous tests I’ve found some Mackenzies to be on the heavier side of the pack, but not this one. While weight takes little away from a rod’s performance, if you’re fishing all day it can lead to fatigue, so generally less is more. This rod certainly didn’t pose that problem, holding its own with other shorter rods and, in my opinion, it’s a real improvement on its predecessor. One that preferred a slightly longer casting stroke than some, with a crisp bottom-hand stop. It’s a definite 9wt, comfortable to cast at all distances with a crisp tip recovery allowing accurate delivery to the intended target. Its six-piece construction and short tube is handy for overseas travel.

“It’s a definite 9wt, comfortable to cast at all distances”

Contact Mackenzie Fly Fishing  Tel 07771 330 729  Web mackenzieflyfishing.com

£1,150 13ft, 8wt, 5pc

An interesting contender that performed very well with both the 8wt Outbound line and the 8wt Rio Scandi line. However, the skagit was slightly on the heavy side for it — no bad thing as this confirmed it as a rod with a true 8wt line rating, which is always good to know. It did not perform quite as crisply with the short-headed spey line as some of the other rods. However, with the correct 8wt line this was another good medium-action rod, light in the hand, comfortable to cast and with good tip recovery, making it relatively accurate. A sound choice if your purse stretches to the price tag.

“Light in the hand and with good tip recovery”

Contact Rod and Tackle  Tel 01670 733 747  Web rodandtackle.com

ORVIS MISSION

£839 13ft 6in, 8wt, 4pc

One that worked well paired with the 8wt Outbound, confirming its rating as an 8wt rod. It also performed extremely well with the skagit line, preferring a longer, smoother casting stroke to achieve the best outcome, and it carried the spey line well, if that’s your preference. It performed all the casts and delivered the line accurately to where you wanted it to go, but it did feel a little heavier in the hand than some of the other tested rods.

“It  performed extremely well with the skagit line”

Contact Orvis  Tel 0333 400 4188  Web orvis.co.uk

SAGE IGNITER

£1,295 13ft 6in, 8wt, 4pc

A fast-action 8wt that offers great feel when casting. It executed all the required casts with all the lines. The 600 grain skagit was unsurprisingly a little heavy for it, highlighting the current trend for correctly rated rods. The Igniter preferred a short to medium-length stroke, with an emphasis on the bottom hand. It was much crisper in its deliveries than some rivals and its tip recovered well, making it very accurate. It generated good line speed with minimal effort, making it very comfortable to cast and a pleasure to use. A little longer than the Guideline and probably requiring more thought in the cast — it may appeal to a more accomplished caster. Big price tag, though.

“It was much crisper in its deliveries than some rivals”

Contact Guide Fly Fishing  Tel 01977 681 300  Web guideflyfishing.co.uk

SHAKESPEARE ORACLE 2 SPEY

£129.99 13ft, 8wt, 4pc

I’ve always been impressed by budget Oracle rods, but I think Shakespeare has lost its way a little with this one. It had a much more traditional feel than the other rods tested, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but the poor tip recovery, even with the spey line, to which it was more suited, compromised its accuracy. Not a first choice for shooting heads, it preferred a long progressive forward stroke to get the best from it. Its softer action meant it worked best with the skagit — but a lighter skagit than the one I used would sharpen it up. On a positive note, it could prove a good tool with which to teach a total beginner, if they’re having difficulty feeling the cast. But there were much better rods in the test despite this being a budget buy.

“A good tool with which to teach a total beginner”

Contact Pure Fishing  Tel 01665 602 771  Web shakespeare-fishing.co.uk

SHIMANO BIOCRAFT XR SALMON

£354.99 13ft 6in, 8wt, 4pc

This rod felt comfortable in the hand and when I picked it up I noticed how light it is and that it felt stiffer in the lower part of the blank. When it came to casting, however, it didn’t feel stiff at all, and carried all the lines relatively well. Although it’s rated an 8wt, it didn’t feel overloaded by the 8/9 skagit or the short-headed spey line. Another rod that preferred a shorter casting stroke, it did everything I asked of it. Given its price tag, it may well be worth considering if your budget doesn’t stretch to one of the more expensive options.

“Another rod that preferred a shorter casting stroke”

Contact Shimano  Web glasgow angling centre

SNOWBEE PRESTIGE G-XS GRAPHENE

£790 13ft 8/9wt, 6pc

Another accurately rated six-piece rod. The grip felt slightly more robust than a 13ft rod would ideally be, but it was not heavy. It had a crisp tip recovery, giving very accurate casts and good distances. As its 8/9 rating suggests, it was happy with a variety of lines, but the 8wt Outbound line crispened the feel of the whole outfit, giving me the impression that it would be ideal when delicate deliveries into quieter areas of the river are required. A lovely rod and a slightly more affordable option than other six-piece rods in the test.

“It had a crisp tip recovery, giving very accurate casts”

Contact Snowbee  Tel 01752 334 933  Web snowbee.co.uk

VISION SALMON HERO

£499.99 13ft 7in, 8wt, 4pc

A lightweight rod with a medium-fast action that performed well, especially with a slightly longer casting stroke — longer than I used for the Sage, for example. It cast all the lines I used well, but worked best with the skagit, which it delivered with ease and accuracy. While not quite as precise as the more expensive rods, it allows you to feel what’s going on through the blank, which is especially important if you’re new to spey-casting. Like many good mid-range rods available today, it does what it says on the tin — without breaking the bank.

“It allows you to feel what’s going on through the blank”

Prices correct as at March 2023

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8 Best Travel Fly Rods: 2024 Buyers Guide

To be honest, I don’t own or use travel fly rods myself, however, since I have guided hundreds of traveling clients that have come from as far away as Africa and Australia, some of them bring their travel fly rods so I’ve had plenty of opportunity to cast and fish with some good travel fly rods, and some not so good travel fly rods.

If you are on a budget, the best travel fly rod is the Redington Classic Trout, which sells for about $189, or the Orvis Clearwater Travel Fly Rod for $249, or if you’ve got the cash, the overall best travel fly rod is the Hardy Aydon Travel Fly Rod.

I’ll discuss other travel fly rods from $79.00 to over $500.

To be honest, some of the discount travel rods and the telescopic travel rods I’ve tried really suck! They just don’t load well, which means they cast poorly, and when fishing with them they either feel like a pool cue or are whippy like a wet noodle. As a fly casting and fly fishing instructor, I know that learning to cast on these very cheap rods will be harder.

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What Is A Travel Rod?

Travel rods are like regular fly rods except that they are six or eight pieces, and when they are broken down, they are often less than 20 inches, making them perfect for a suitcase on a plane or for stuffing in a backpack and hiking into a secluded fishing spot.

A travel fishing rod or travel rod uses a lightweight design crafted of graphite or carbon fiber .

Travel rods do not typically come with a reel unless you are buying some of the cheap ones on Amazon. You can find travel rods designed for various applications and weights from three-weight to ten-weight for big salmon.

Although they are called travel fly rods, they can be used anywhere and all the time if you want.

These are my reviews of the top travel fly rods available today, and I’ll let you choose which one best fits your needs.

Common Travel Fly Rod Lengths, Weights, and Pieces

While travel fly rods can reach up to 14 feet in length, those designs remain pretty rate. The typical lengths for these rods range from 8.5 to 10 feet, with the most common lengths including:

What’s the perfect length for a travel fly rod, you ask? Choose fly rods of up to nine feet in length to gain the best accuracy, but if you need greater flexibility or for custom methods, choose a rod of greater than nine feet. Nine feet offers the sweet spot for a fly rod.

Because travel rods are made with more pieces than a two-piece or a four-piece they are slightly heavier. This is due to the ferrules and the extra resins. Many five or six weights are around 3 to 4 ounces on average. However, the actual weight of the rod will depend on how long the rod is and the rod weight rating.

Some of the really cheap Fiberglass fly rods weigh the most, between six and 15 ounces (between 170 and 425 grams), but graphite and composite rods weigh less. Fly rods don’t come imprinted with their ounces or grams weight but you can find that on the manufacturer’s website.

Typically, you use the same line weight as the rod weight rating, so if the manufacturer recommends a weight rating of five, you’ll read a 5wt on the side of the rod or its packaging.

Pro Tip: Rod weight matters a lot. Use a fly rod with a weight of one to four for small trout or panfish or really for any small stream fishing. When fishing in large streams or rivers, use a four to six-weight rod to catch trout and small bass.

If you can only pack one rod for a trout fishing trip, choose a five-weight for its versatility.

Bass, carp, pike, and steelhead fishing requires a six to eight-weight fly rod and line, while large salmon, steelhead, musky, or saltwater fishing requires eight to 10-weight rods.

Fly fishing for big game fish like Tarpon takes the heaviest weight rod and line of 10 to 14.

Pro Tip #2: With any fly rod the sections can come apart when casting. I’ve seen hundreds of rod tips go flying off when casting. With travel rods, there are even more sections that can potentially come off.

To lower the chance of this from happening, when lining up your ferrules, instead of lining them up and then pushing them tight, have them slightly misaligned and then twist them into alignment as you push them together tight. This twisting locks them in place better, and rarely do my rod pieces ever come apart during casting.

Best Travel Fly Rods: All Price Ranges

Now that we’ve covered the common weights, lengths, and pieces, and what sizes are best per species, let’s dive into the greatest depths of fly fishing gear to explore the best travel fly rods.

I’ll cover a variety of rod weights and lengths, so you can find one that suits your needs whether you want to fish the shallows of the Oklahoma River, or the deep waters of the Hudson River, or the Niagara River.

Douglas Upstream Ultra-Lite Fly Rod

I really loved fishing the Douglas Upstream Ultra-lite Fly rod in both the 4-piece and the 6-piece travel rod.

It is super smooth casting and is a light rod that is great for small stream trout and panfish.

This is, as the name implies, a lightweight rod, and it only comes in 2, 3, and 4 weight sizes.

Douglas offers its Upstream Ultra-Lite fly rod in eight lengths, ranging from six feet six inches to eight feet eight inches.

Choose between a simple two-piece fly fishing rod or a more complex six-piece design in this.

Only the six-foot-six-inch rod comes in the two-piece design. The seven feet three inches, eight feet, eight feet three inches, and eight feet eight inches rods come in four pieces. You can get the seven feet, seven feet six inches, and eight feet lengths in a six-piece design.

Every option uses the same bamboo-like handle design made from cork. This rod features spigot ferrules to enhance energy transferability and a sliding ring reel seat to reduce weight.

Every rod comes with a 1 5/8” brushed aluminum rod tube and sock to make packing it easier.

Hardy Aydon Travel Fly Rod

When you want the best medium fast rod action travel rod, try the Hardy Aydon travel fly rod, offering four length options from 3 weight to 10 weight:

This six-piece rod handles line weights of four through 10, depending on the length of the rod. The design combines a cork rod handle with a ceramic guide of lined titanium stripper and a chrome single foot.

The overall rod uses Sintrix multi-modulus carbon fiber, so it weighs less than a fiberglass rod. Some individuals may find this an easier rod to use because of the keyed fly reel seat slide band that doesn’t weigh much.

Depending on the rod length you choose, the design either uses aluminum or wood spacers.

One of my favorite things about the Aydon model rod comes from its packaging. Hardy provides a travel tube that helps keep all of the pieces of the fishing rod together in your backpack or suitcase.

Greys Wing Travel Fly Rod

Okay, I feature this rod, hence the link to another page on this website, so you know I love it.

It’s my favorite when I need a medium-fast rod action. Greys Wing six-piece travel fly rod comes in four lengths, but I recommend the nine-foot length because it offers the greatest versatility in various fishing situations.

Here are all of the length options:

• 11 feet four inches

Depending on the length you choose, you can use a 3wt, 5wt, 8wt, or 9wt line with this six-piece rod.

You get two handle choices – RHW or TPSF. Like most travel rods, this design uses a cork rod handle. Greys Wing’s design features a lined stripper with a stainless steel snake on a Powerlux carbon rod in a grey and red color combination.

Depending on the length of the rod you pick, this design uses either single or double-foot snake guides and either wood or alloy spacers with an alloy fly reel seat. Its reel features dual locking nuts with a nylon cushion ring.

Similar to the Douglas Upstream, it uses a keyed and milled reel seat slide band. I love that Greys Wing makes it easier to safely pack this rod by supplying a hard tube and rod bag for it.

Echo Trip Eight Piece

The other fishing rods reviewed offer a bevy of lengths, but Echo’s Trip travel rod comes apart in eight pieces for truly simple packing.

Each piece measures 15 inches, and its case measures 18 inches. That means you can easily fit it into any suitcase or backpack.

Echo chose to offer its travel fishing rod only in a nine-foot length.

It does offer three versions catering to three line weights: 5wt, 6wt, and 8wt.

By choosing to design this rod in only nine feet, Echo has focused on providing power and fast action for its travel rod.

Orvis Clearwater

You can get excited with the price of the six-piece Clearwater Travel Fly Rod, $249. It is a great rod for that price.

To get the whole outfit, you’ll pay the same price as you would for the other options in this article – about $500 to $550.

Now, on to its design. This snazzy-looking black chrome rod with white accents features a chrome snake and a stripping guide with a ceramic insert.

The sleek looks continue with its black nickel aluminum reel seats. It does just look cool, Orvis used composite tips on the fighting butts to add to the durability of the rod.

Like many other travel fly rods, it comes with a rod tube. This one’s in gray.

Redington Classic Trout

The Redington Classic Trout fly rod is specifically designed for trout. Why? It’s in the name.

I have had the opportunity to try this rod a few times, and if I were going to buy a travel fly rod under $200, this would be it.

The Redington Classic Trout Rod comes in four pieces and six pieces.

While all the four-piece rods come in lengths and weights, starting at 7 feet six inches and ranging up to nine feet in length.

The Redington Classic Trout travel rod only has one model, which is a 9 foot 5 weight that comes in 6 pieces to make traveling easier.

This rod’s moderate action works well for all anglers, and it’s good in small creeks, rivers, or from the comfort of your boat.

Because it only weighs 3.1 ounces and offers great flexibility, it provides a superb alternative for a long day of fishing.

Choose from two configurations – a four-piece or a backpack-optimized six-piece. Various fly fish rod lengths work with different line weights. Here’s a quick guide:

• 7 feet six inches, 2wt or 3wt
• 8 feet, 4wt
• 8 feet six inches, 3wt,
• 9 feet, 5wt, 6wt.

As usual, the nine feet in length option offers the greatest versatility in application.

Redington Trailblazer

Another Redington winner is the Redington Trailblazer.

While the Classic Trout specializes in trout fishing, the Trailblazer was made for backpacking and traveling and can work for essentially any fishing situation.

The compact design breaks apart into six pieces and comes in two length options.

Choose either a 7 feet six-inch design that works with a 3wt line for small stream fishing, little tout, and panfish, or a nine feet option that works with a 5wt line for bigger rivers, lake fishing, nymphing and streamer fishing, bigger trout and bass, and any waterway requiring a loner casts.

Redington includes a compact storage tube to help keep all parts safe and organized.

According to the manufacturer, the Trailblazer provides the lightest rod they’ve offered.

Also, if you care about such things, this rod comes in a jaunty red blank streaked with neon green.

Getting down to the mechanics of this rod, it uses single-foot snake guides and an anodized aluminum reel seat, resulting in a travel rod that weighs less but also proves more durable.

M MAXIMUMCATCH Travel Fishing Rod

Best Tavel Fly Rod Under $100

One of my clients had this rod with him, and since I’d seen it on Amazon and since it was very inexpensive, I decided to try it out.

Although the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Traveler Fly Fishing Rod casts 40 feet of fly line pretty well, this is still my least favorite of all the rods on this page.

I felt that the rod felt a bit heavy and a bit stiff compared to most rods and my concern is the durability of the rod. It just didn’t feel as good when casting and fishing and when fighting fish.

However, If you are a total beginner or you have a young child who is hard on gear and you don’t want him using a $200 rod, then this is a good option, and that is why I’m recommending it.

It comes in a range of 5 to 8 weight and is only made as a 9-foot rod.

If you are looking for an entire setup, check out my recent article on the best fly fishing combos and kits , and if you need a reel to go with your rods, check out the Best Fly Reels page.

Best Fly Rods For Traveling Summary

If you are looking for the best fly rods for travel, these are them and they range from $79 to over $900.00. My advice when choosing a travel fly rod is to choose the best one that fits your budget.

Tight Lines,

Professional Fishing Guide and Author At Trout And Steelhead

Graham Bristow is the owner and lead author here at Trout and Steelhead.net, and he has been writing about fishing since 2015.

Since September 2000, Graham has guided over 3000 clients over his 22 years as a guide and it now recognized as a top fishing guide.

Graham specializes in fly fishing, float fishing, and lure fishing for trout, steelhead, and salmon. About Graham

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Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Jason sealock.

• Oct 09, 2023

The product recommendations on our site are independently chosen by our editors. When you click through our links, we may earn a commission. 

Choosing a travel rod for anglers who like to pack light and carry a fishing rod in their luggage on every where they travel requires a little planning and view of the options and fish you think you might encounter on your travels. We reviewed a wide gamut of rods and came up with a lot of options to consider as well as some great recommendations for which fishing rods we would suggest for a lot of different types of fishing and travel.

Things like size of the rod when disassembled, number of pieces, rod case, roll or bag, type of rod, how you will transport it, whether a telescoping rod makes sense and more need to be considered before choosing the best travel rod for your fishing plans.  

Travel rods can come from 2 pieces up to 5 pieces not to mention the telescoping travel rod options out there. You might want to fit the rod in a suitcase, if so more pieces will break down into a smaller foot print. Or you might carry it with you which might give you more options for rods. You might want a hard case to protect the rod if you’re worried about TSA or some other party damaging your rods in transit. Or a rod wrap may suffice if it’s tucked inside of another hard case suitcase.

OUR TOP PICKS

• Best telescoping travel combo – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Best travel rod for bass – Buy from FishUSA
• Runner up: Daiwa ardito travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best all-around / saltwater travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best telescopic travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Runner up: Ugly stik cx2 4-piece travel combo – Buy from Basspro
• Ark rods genesis rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Zebco 33 spincast telescopic combo – Buy from Basspro
• Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• St. croix triumph travel rod – Buy from Tacklewarehouse

Know Your Travel Rods

Then there are the types of rod to consider including spinning travel rods, casting travel rods, telescoping travel rods as well as travel fly rods or specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or travel trout or panfish rods. Or any combination of the aforementioned.  

If you plan to fish with light lures and light line, then a spinning travel rod might be the best option. If you plan to look for big bluegills or crappies specifically on your travels, then a long telescoping rod might make more sense or a small spinning rod like a trout rod might give you a lot of options for trout and panfish.

If you’re going for larger quarry, you will want a beefier rod that has a reel that can hold heavier line. Usually a baitcasting travel rod makes sense for bass, or big fish like walleye, pike, musky, stripers, etc.  

Specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or extra long jigging rods might be just the ticket for probing unknown waters for specific types of fishing like jigging brush for crappie or casting oversized swimbaits for trophy bass and stripers.  

Of course if you’re in to fly fishing, then a travel fly rod is hard to beat. There are some super high end and middle of the road options that are great rods that make a 9-foot fly rod fit into an over night travel bag with the travel fly rod option.

CONSIDER TELESCOPING RODS FOR TRAVEL

For some, a telescoping rod is an easy spur of the moment travel rod option to probe some nearby waters to see if they have fish available. I have buddies that keep telescoping rods in their trucks at all times and will break it out on their travels or while taking a lunch or after work on a work trip. It’s a quick and simple option.

Most of time telescoping rods are a bit lower quality. Or at least that was the case back when the only option was a low end push button spin cast combo for small panfish. There are, however, some newer options bringing this back as a real viable option for bass and panfish.

A Travel Combo Might Make More Sense

You can buy travel rods that are a rod and reel combo. This is often the case with telescoping options. But there are some better quality options in the multi-piece travel rods with a decent spinning reel. Most of the time. I want the best rod I can get and a good reel in my bag so I’m not fighting my equipment in the limited amount of time I get to fish on my travels. Especially those spur-of-the-moment unplanned fishing trips while traveling.  

But when you get to a location and wished you had a rod and reel, a decent priced telescoping rod/reel combo can get you in the fish on an unexpected hot spot quickly and easily.

You Need a Travel Rod Case, Bag or Roll

Anymore your travel rod is going to come in a hard case, a roll or a bag. Regardless you need to take care to protect the pieces of the rod or the rod while it is compartmentalized so it’s not damaged in your travels.  

A hard case might be a cloth case with a hard shell inside of it that zips closed on the end and the multiple pieces slide into little sleeves inside of it. Or it might be a hard outer shell with a soft interior that keeps your guides and blank parts protected. These are nice when you plan to carry your travel rods separate from your luggage. Or keep them in a vehicle on your travels.

A travel rod roll is just a cloth sleeve with individual pockets for each piece of the blank and then you roll it up with flap that closes on one end and tie it off with the attached ties. These can be nice for putting a rod or two into your other travel bags or a small compartment in your vehicle.

A travel bag can be just a cloth bag or a padded foam bag that houses and protects the rod simultaneously. I’m a fan of these as they keep your pieces from falling out as sometimes happens with rolls. And they keep the blank pieces with a bit of added protection. The padded bags are ideal in my opinion.  

Best Travel Rod Brands

In the freshwater space, the best travel rod makers are often synonymous with the best rod makers. Makers like Daiwa, Shimano, St. Croix, Megabass, Ark Rods, Fenwick, and others have really solid travel rod options. Others that many don’t know offer travel rods have good options like Favorite, Bass Pro, and BnM Poles.  

Here are the travel rod brands we reviewed and liked:

• Favorite Fishing
• B’n’M Poles

Having said all that, let’s take a closer look at some of our personal favorites in various travel rod categories.

Best Telescoping Travel Combo

Daiwa travel combo.

We chose the Daiwa Travel Combo as the best combo because it comes with a good reel, telescoping rod that is better than most and it’s own sling carry bag that is big enough to put several travel rods and reels in. This combo compacts down to 26 inches making it a perfect option for any trip whether it be in a car or a plane.

The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch Medium power fast action rod. It’s a solid rod and stayed extended as we fished with it. The reel is a 2-bearing Daiwa Crossfire LT 2500. Even though it’s only 2 bearings, it performed very smoothly and effortlessly with a very smooth drag. It’s a solid spinning combo and it’s offered in EVA or Cork grips.

The combo costs $149 but if you just want a good combo without messing around with pairing rods and reels, this is a quick easy choice.

Buy at TackleWarehouse

Best Travel Rod for Bass

Shimano zodias travel rod.

The fact that Shimano took one of their best rod lines and converted it into a high-end bass travel rod got me excited. And when I got the new rod in my hand, I was very impressed. I am a big fan of the original Zodias line and was so excited to see this level of quality in a 5-piece travel rod.  

This travel rod condenses down to 19 inches when packed, meaning you can literally take it anywhere. And when full assembled you have a very high quality rod full of all the features of the high end one-piece blanks. The 5-piece construction gives the rod more uniform bend than a 2-piece model would.  

It has so much power and a steady consistent load when casting. You will forget it’s a travel rod by your second cast. It’s a high end rod that just happens to be in 5 pieces. It has a CI4+ reel seat for lightweight strength and a full carbon monocoque grip which eliminates the use of EVA giving a light rod more sensitivity.

Hi-Power X construction which makes the blanks outermost layer wrapped with carbon tape form that X appearance on the blank that gives more precise actions to the rods with more strength.  

You can really lean into fish with this rod without worry. It’s one of the nicest travel rods we’ve tested.

Buy at FishUSA.com

Buy from Omnia

Runner Up: Daiwa Ardito Travel Rod

This is another high-end rod that has been brought down to a travel rod form factor. This rod comes with a very nice hard case and it breaks down to 30 inches (32 in its case). It features a V-flex ferrule joint system. These ferrules don’t require you to jam the rod pieces all the way together and then struggle to separate them. You simply push them until they snug together and you are all set. You can break down and put the rod together in seconds and be fishing as fast as you can thread your line.  

The rod has a high-modulus blank, Fuji Aluminum Oxide guides, unsanded micro-pitch blank, split Eva grip and machined nut hood. It’s a high quality rod that pairs nicely with your favorite bait caster. It comes in 7-foot medium, 7-foot medium heavy and 7-foot, 6-inch medium heavy.

Buy at BassPro.com

Best All-Around / Saltwater Travel Rod

St. croix avid trek rod.

This is a finely crafted American rod with incredible blanks offering uniform performance, strength and ultra-perceptive sensitivity. The premium cork full grip, and quality blanks featuring St. Croix’s IPC mandrels, SCII high modulus carbon, slim profile ART ferrules, Sea Guide Hero hi-grade guides with zirconia rings and stainless gun smoke frames, sea guide hook keeper, and a 15-year-transferable warranty.  

This rod can literally do it all. Going to Louisiana to fish the marshes for bass and redfish, this is your rod. Strong, light, smooth, sensitive and easy to pack. The 3-piece rod is 6-foot, 6-inch MH rod with a lot of power but great castability. This rod is a joy to fish with and you can expect it to last a long time with that kind of warranty.

Best Telescopic Travel Rod

Bass pro aventur1 telescoping rod.

I was pleasantly surprised by the Aventur1 telescoping rod. It features 6 sections but 8 guides for uniform castability and a nice line path while fighting fish. The unique guide system has floating guides as well as guides permanently affixed to the rod sections. So you won’t fight with line on the blank on this travel rod.  

The 7-foot medium power rod fished really well and I was pretty taken aback at how nice this rod fished for $59. A rod that will likely always be in my travel plans. With an RT2 graphite blank, Fuji aluminum oxide guides, Fuji reel seat, with EVA split grips and X-Wrap rubber cork butt cap, this is a pretty functional telescoping rod for travel fishing.

Best Big Swimbait Travel Rod

F5 departure travel rods.

The folks at F5 Custom Rods make some of the nicest big swimbait rods available today. These are custom made rods from blanks to handles to accents. They are often very selective in how they build rods and you usually have to get lucky enough to catch a rod on a drop. However, the F5 Departure Travel Rods are often in stock and I picked up a H and XH rod a year or so back.

These are two of my favorite big swimbait rods that I use for crankdowns like the Bull Shad 4×4 and the Toxic Whippersnappers, for glides like the 86 Baits Doomrider, KGB Swimbaits Chad Shad or the Deps Slide Swimmer 250 and of course for my jointed swims like the Bull Shad 8 inch.

The rods are both 3-piece rods and are custom made with a full extra long camo EVA handle. The ones the often sell are split grips. The rod blanks are solid. Even with three pieces I had no issues heaving big baits like the Slide Swimmer which weighs 6 1/2 ounces.

They are going to run you about $289 a piece for these rods. But I am so happy to have them because I can take a pack of my favorite big baits and a very high-end swimbait rod literally everywhere I go to chase trophies all over the country and out of the country for that matter.

Buy at F5 Custom Rods

Best Travel Rod on a Budget

Favorite fishing army geo rod.

This is an impressive rod not only for the price but for how well this 4-piece rod fishes and fights fish. We caught some really quality bass on this rod this spring and it is a legit fun spinning rod to fish. I love that I threw it in my suitcase, loaded up and went to Arkansas and broke it out and caught a bunch of nice bass that were moving shallow to spawn.  

Even my brother-in-law enjoyed fishing with this travel rod. And at $39, it’s a hard rod to pass up. The 4 pieces in their hard travel tube are 26 inches. The pieces are barely 23 inches. The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch medium-heavy spinning rod. I used it to skip Senkos around shallow cover a lot this spring. And it sets a nice hook and has a ton of backbone to land big bass. Our biggest on it was 6 pounds, 4 ounces this spring.

Buy at FavoriteUSA.com

Runner up: Ugly Stik GX2 4-piece Travel Combo

At $44 at Walmart, you can’t go wrong with this nearly indestructible travel rod. The Ugly Stik has been the staple of affordable travel rods. They can take abuse and continue to catch and land fish.  

Buy from Walmart.com

Buy at Scheels

Best Trout Travel Rod

St. croix trout series pack rod  .

For the adventurer who needs a light and packable trout rod to get to remote locations, this is the Cadillac of adventure rods. This rod says trout, but it’s a dynamite bluegill, crappie and even smallmouth rod for remote streams and creeks. It’s a beautifully built rod at only 2.9 ounces and 3 pieces, it compacts down to be no added weight in your backpack.  

I paired it with a small 1000 spinning reel and 4-pound line and really enjoyed fishing this rod a lot. It will become one of my staple creek travel rods now. It throws little baits effortlessly and had a nice backbone for such a light rod. A real joy to fish with.

Buy from FishUSA.com

Best Panfish Telescoping Rod

Bnm poles little mighty telescoping rod  .

I have to admit, I’m a little blow away by this rod. I grew up crappie and bluegill fishing with my father in Florida and Arkansas with telescoping fiberglass rods from B’n’M Poles. So I have a lot of nostalgia when it comes to these types of rod. But the new Little Mighty Rod is something special.

While it’s not technically a travel rod, it’s a telescoping rod that reaches out to 20 feet and breaks down to barely 22 inches. It looks like a bright orange track baton but it extends to a masterful reach out and touch a crappie or bluegill telescoping rod quickly.

One word of caution, be sure you extend the rod small sections first. So grab the string tab on the tip and pull it out that way. Don’t slide the sections out by dumping the open end out or you will have issues with sections getting out of order and blocking each other. Same for breaking it down. Big sections first and be sure to leave the string out when you put the cap on.  

Other than that, I enjoyed testing this rod a lot. I honestly didn’t think much of it when I got it. But after using it I can think of all sorts of places I want to take and fish with this rod. Once you get the hang of maneuvering 20 feet of rod with a fish on the end it’s a pretty fun stick to fish with.

Buy at Walmart.com

Buy from BnmPoles.com

Other Travel Rod Considerations

Ark rods genesis rods.

This was my original travel rod and I’ve put a lot of miles on it. It’s caught fish in Nebraska, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. This is a two piece travel rod that comes with a nice padded bag.

Read our full Ark Genesis 2-piece travel rod review

The rod joins together nicely and fishes so well. The very narrow blanks are durable and sensitive. I’ve caught fish just about every way you can on these rods. I have the 6-foot, 8-inch MH and the 7-foot, 6-inch MH rods and have flipped, frogged, spinnerbait fished, jigged, cranked, popped a topwater popper and burned a buzz bait with these rods. A great option that gives no sacrifice in performance in a 2-piece travel rod.

SixGill Argos Travel Rods

A very nicely made travel pack rod, the Argos Travel Rod is a 4-piece rod built on a 24T Toray Carbon blank. Comes with a 25 inch travel case. It fishes like your nicest bass rod but you can tuck it under a jacket and take it with you anywhere. The rod loads nicely on the cast and has enough back bone with it’s 7-foot MH frame to fight any size bass you might tangle with. A very nice travel rod option.  

Buy from Sixgillfishing.com

Zebco 33 Spincast Telescopic Combo

This is an affordable option at $25 but it’s not made to handle big fish in my opinion. It’s a great rod for catching panfish around a campsite, or of the dock on vacation. But it’s not made for fishing for larger fish. The rod bends easily at the tip under load and the line cuts across the rod to the next guide. So just be cautious with bigger fish on this setup. But for $25, you can catch the heck out of a bunch of panfish with this setup.

Buy at Amazon

Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod

I haven’t had a chance to review the latest offerings from Hardy yet, but one of my all time favorite travel rods is my Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod. It’s a 9-foot, 5-weight rod. It is the perfect pack rod for hiking into remote streams and chasing fish on the fly. This is the Ferrari of travel rods in my opinion. Everything is first class from the aluminum case, styled bag, ferrule covers, and beautiful craftsmanship on the Sintrix 440 blank.  

Buy from Hardyrodsandreels.com

Shimano Convergence Travel Rod

This 7-foot, 4-piece rod is another great do-it all travel rod. It’s a great rod for a lot of different species and lures in that 1/4 ounce to 3/4 ounce size. It breaks down to 25 inches so it will fit in almost all your bags and it comes in a nice hard case with a shoulder strap if you want to carry it on your back while you hike. It’s very well made and fished nicely with a variety of reels.

Spinning rod

Casting rod.

Buy at Tackle Warehouse

St. Croix Triumph Travel Rod

This work-horse travel rod serves a ton of different purposes. It’s 6-foot, 6-inch size makes it a great size for tight quarters. I loved fishing some small streams near the house with this rod. A fun little rod for wading creeks or winging around on bigger waters on your travels. It’s small form factor of 24 inches makes it a great pack rod to keep in your vehicle or throw in your bag on long trips. It’s a very nice blank divided into 4 pieces. It’s strong, sensitive and light. A great travel version of their very popular Triumph line.  

Wired2fish Travel Rod Comparison Chart

We review a ton of products and while they don’t always make the best of categories there are a lot of good rods to choose from that can get the job done. We try to give you as many options as possible while identifying some that we think stand out in the array of options. The goal with our guides is to help you be as informed and aggregate as much helpful information and personal experience into helping you with your fishing gear decisions.  

Here is a quick rundown of a lot of travel rod / telescoping rod options:

Currently working as Senior Advisor to Wired2fish. Former COO and Publisher, Jason Sealock came to Wired2fish shortly after inception in January of 2010. Prior to that he was the Editor-in-Chief of FLW Outdoors Magazines. He worked up from Associate Editor to Photo Editor and finally Editor in Chief of three magazines FLW Bass, FLW Walleye and FLW Saltwater. He set the content direction for Wired2fish while also working directly with programmers, consultants and industry partners. Sealock has been an avid angler for the better part of 40 years and has been writing and shooting fishing and outdoors content for more than 25 years. He is an expert with fishing electronics and technologies and an accomplished angler, photographer, writer and editor. He has taught a lot of people to find fish with their electronics and has been instrumental in teaching these technologies to the masses. He's also the industry authority on new fishing tackle and has personally reviewed more than 10,000 products in his tenure. He has a 30-year background in information technologies and was a certified engineer for a time in Microsoft, Novell, Cisco, and HP. He mostly fishes for bass and panfish around the house. He has, however, caught fish in 42 of the 50 states in the US as well as Costa Rica, Mexico, and Canada and hopes to soon add Finland, Japan, Africa and Australia to his list.

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The Best Fly Rods For Salmon

The best fly rods for salmon fishing.

Salmon, and other big game fish such as steelhead and stripers, make their runs with power and aggressiveness.  While different species vary in size and strength, let’s just say it’s not a job for your trout rod. Unless of course you’re in the market for a new one!   Here are the best fly rods for salmon and big game you can count on.

Our Motto: Get You To Better Fishing! TM

Updated September 16, 2020

Why Get A Quality Salmon Fly Rod?

Can your fly rod handle 20-30 minutes of this kind of power and torque, from a 20-40 pound salmon, or even larger?

Alaska West

Put another way, what’s wrong in this photo?

This angler is making a classic mistake that often breaks a sub-par fishing rod, and loses the salmon to boot.  Without a 2nd upper cork grip, and / or a cork butt section below the reel, to use 2 hands he is forced to place his own hand directly on the fly rod.  That focal point of stress will break the rod, because the load is no longer spread out.  Bye bye rod, and salmon too.

We want you to enjoy releasing a hard fought, large salmon just like this one.  That’s why!

Freshwater Fisheries Society, BC

Summary Of The Best Fly Rods for Salmon

While many mass produced fly rods are flooding the market, very few are up to the task of landing a powerful salmon.  Or steelhead, striper, or muskie for that matter.  So, we’ve waded through the many choices to recommend only the best rods, in several value categories, to setup well for your next salmon trip.  Here are our picks.

1a. Redington Predator – 9′ 8 Wt Rod

1b. redington predator – 9’ 8 wt combo, 2a. echo epr saltwater 9’ 8 wt rod, 2b. echo epr saltwater 9’ 8 wt combo, 3a. orvis helios 3d – 9′ 9 wt rod, 3b. orvis helios 3d – 9′ 9 wt combo, 4a. sage salt hd – 9′ 10 wt rod, 4b. sage salt hd – 9′ 10 wt combo, related article: awesome fly fishing gifts, detailed reviews – best fly rods for salmon.

Losing a trout is one thing, but losing a trophy fish is another (described by one angler as “worse than being fired from your dream job, or dropped by your girlfriend in front of your friends!”).  You just don’t want to be short handed right when the great moment arrives.

Read on for our detailed reviews and recommendations.  Note that most of these rods can be purchased either as a rod only, or also in combos with reel, backing, and line so you have a read-to-go outfit.

How We Find Best Value For You

Tired of reading gear ratings that have arbitrary ratings in pretty tables, with lots of links to primarily the expensive models, without enough information to tell if the gear is really right for you?   Or that were obviously written by someone in another country who’s never actually seen or used the equipment, much less been an outdoors enthusiast?

In contrast, we are always on the lookout for best value products for you, and we evaluate in detail before presenting anything to you.  Yes, even if it’s not expensive and doesn’t benefit us, we cover it. Here’s how we deliver our proprietary ValueMeter TM ratings to you.

First, we use well defined, meaningful rating categories that focus on what you’re getting for your money:

CHEAP – Not up to the task, prone to breakage (we don’t report on these)

PRACTICAL – fewer features for lower cost, entry level, yet still quality

BEST VALUE – More features and higher quality but for a reasonable cost, excellent all-around and versatile

HIGH END – Best in class, highly specialized, usually more expensive

OUTRAGEOUS – Custom, scarce, unique, collectors, antique, etc.

Second, how do we arrive at our ratings?  Through detailed comparison of features and performance, relative to cost, with a carefully weighted scoring system.

Note, our ValueMeter TM ratings are complimentary to the common 5-star rating system used by most retailers, and does not replace them.  Those tend to be a measure of satisfaction of individuals not only with the product itself, but star-ratings get easily clouded by other issues such as shipping, retailer level of customer service, return policies, etc.  And, it’s nearly impossible to distinguish one reviewer’s view of value versus another.

Our ratings measure directly how much you are getting for your money, factoring out all other variables (such as which retailer sells it, what the shipping experience is, etc.) so you can make a smart choice about exactly what gear best meets both your needs and your budget.  Once you’ve discerned a smart choice for your needs, then the next decision is how and where to buy it!

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Redington Predator – 9’ 8 Wt – Rod or Combo

The Predator deserves our “Best Value” rating, because price relative to features and performance is right in the strike zone.

As a fast-action rod, the Redington Predator’s stiff and robust qualities allow you to quickly capture salmon and other big game fish. You can even flexibly straighten up its loop to create more energy to win battles with the fish.

Redington Predator Fly Rod

The Predator works well for longer casting. What’s more, it handles windy conditions well, performing even in longer distances in the wind.

Redington rods have been known for versatility and that quality is evident in the Predator. It is protected from scratches and dings, thanks to its anodized composition.

Redington Predator Combo

You can even use it for both saltwater and freshwater fly fishing. It is true that it is intended for catching predatory fish like salmon, walleye, and pike, among many others. However, you can adjust it for capturing smaller fish.

Another notable quality of the Redington Predator is it can endure forceful stripping when you’re fishing on or below the surface. So, when you’re stripping large flies, you won’t have to wade as much through the water to manage your casting.

• Multiple models specific to your prey – e.g. Muskie, Pike (though one of these models is sufficient for most large game)
• Allows you to cast larger flies at a distance with excellent accuracy
• Great value for money
• Stunning aesthetics
• Not necessarily an all-around rod
• Considered heavy when compared to other models in its class

Related Article: The Best Fly Reels For Salmon And Big Game Fish

Echo epr saltwater fly rod 9’ 9 wt – rod or combo.

First of all, what you’ll love about the Echo EPR Saltwater fly rod is its fast action. You can consider it a wind tamer that offers smooth action.

With a short stroke, you can load the tip easily, allowing you to make an accurate cast even between 20 to 30 feet. You don’t have to force it just to let it generate plenty of line speed. A true tip action rod, the Echo EPR responds quickly even with a short stroke.

Echo EPR Fly Rod

Second, if looks matter to you, then you’ll definitely like the distinctive snake guides, rod and reel seat which are all black. The black wraps even have a sleek look, thanks to the fine copper tipping. The only area that needs improvement is the rod tube.

You won’t be disappointed with the quality of the Echo EPR saltwater fly rod. The large guides shoot the line freely. For a mid-priced rod, it has an above-average reel seat.

Hint – for pricing on the rod only, click on the picture above.  For the combo, click on the picture below.

Echo EPR Combo

You will also like the comfortable profile of the cork grip. Many saltwater grips start to give out when the front begins to crack, which can be a problem. However, you can trust that the Echo EPR’s cork grip will hold up very well.

• Compared to other salmon fly rods, the Echo EPR is relatively faster
• Simple and lightweight foot guides
• Its accuracy makes it versatile for catching more fish
• Available in models for different situations
• Durable and long-lasting
• Well designed for a new angler trying their hand in fly fishing

Related Article: The Best Waders For Cold Water And Weather

Related video.

We like this intro to how to play and release salmon, by Greys Fishing. Good discussion with tips as they play fish, on how to not horse the fish too much early on, see what it wants to do.  How to keep tension on, deal with a turn upstream, know when you can start reeling in, and even when tired out how they will make another turn and run as they get close to the net.

Orvis Helios 3D – 9’ 8 or 9 Wt – Rod or Combo

The third generation of the Helios series has received rave reviews in the fly fishing community. While it is not yet flawless, you can tell that the company has improved it to near perfection.

Orvis Helios 3D Fly Rod

It has an excellent bend and a fast action core. Indeed, when you take the Helios 3D in the backcountry for large fish, you can have confidence the rod will perform when you need it, well away from a fly shop.

Orvis Helios 3D Combo

You will find most Helios rods in 9-foot lengths. You will also occasionally find 10-foot rods in 7-weight. Most sizes will work for salmon fly fishing. However, if you’re venturing on bigger water with longer casts, it’s better to choose the 10-footer.

Regardless of what you buy, you will get a rod specifically designed for distance. Orvis also re-engineered the line guides and reduced rod vibration to give you a crisp release.

• Excellent warranty
• Reliable accuracy
• Straight and powerful casts
• Performs better in bigger waters
• Stiff action

Sage Salt HD Fly Rod 9’ 9 or 10 Wt – Rod or Combo

Whether casting on a river thrashing in salmon or out on the salt flats, you often don’t have time to negotiate with the rod you’re casting. It’s important that you have the confidence to deliver a perfect cast in one shot.

Sage Salt HD Fly Rod

What you’ll like about the Sage Salt HD fly rod, is the wide variety of weights, up to even an 11-weight version if you truly want horsepower.

Despite being a fast action rod, it can be deadly in close encounters. Of course, you’ll likely take most of your casts closer in, especially when you’re wading.

Sage Salt HD Combo

Another notable quality about the Sage Salt HD fly rod is how it feels in your hands. It has a noticeably softer tip. So, there is an improvement in the energy transfer from the mid-section through to the rod’s entire upper third.

However, when you start casting further out, some anglers notice that the rod may not have as much casting distance as some other brands, and may have slightly less lifting power as well.  So, to consider purchasing one weight above what you are accustomed to is a simple way to adjust for this factor.

• A great fly rod that performs excellently at key flat distances
• Built to be toughed and backed by a great warranty
• Not advisable for open seas or anywhere you’ll need long-distance casting
• Average rod design

There you have it… our top fly fishing rods for catching salmon! See you in the water and get ready to score your trophy salmon with these rods!

What is the best fly rod for Salmon?

Our top 4 picks provide high performance (fast action, strong materials, salt water resistance) in 3 value / price point categories, with the option for rod only or combined package with reel, backing, and line:

1. Redington Predator – 9′ 8 Wt Rod or Combo

2. echo epr saltwater 9’ 8 wt rod, 3. orvis helios 3d – 9′ 9 wt rod, 4. sage salt hd – 9′ 10 wt rod, what weight fly rod do you use for salmon.

For most salmon fly fishing, we recommend fly rod weights, 8, 9, or 10.  Depending on conditions (casting distance, depth) and size of the fish, consider weights 7 or 11.  Use tapers WF, DT, or ST .

How do you set up a fly rod for salmon fishing?

You’ll want 200 yards of 20-30 lb backing. Off your 8-10 weight fly line (usually WF or ST depending on conditions/depth), you can usually use a straight (non-tapered) mono leader of 20-30 pounds depending on the size fish. There are many ways to rig your fly.

When would you use a long heavy fly rod?

Use a 9-10 foot rod for trophy or big game fish such as salmon, steelhead, striped bass, northern pike, and muskie.  The longer rods help make longer casts, with a heavy fly line (8-10 weight), especially in the wind.

What is the best fly rod for the money?

Based on our Best Value review, the best fly rod for the money is the Echo EPR Saltwater.  Depending on your budget and fishing needs, we also recommend the Redington Predator, Orvis Helios 3D, and Sage Salt HD.

How much does a good fly rod cost?

We rate fly rods according to “value,” that is features and performance relative to price.  For trout and panfish, you can expect to spend $100-300 for a quality rod.  For big game fish, you’re looking at $400-900 to do the job right.

Which fly rod should I buy?

The fly rod you buy depends on the type of fish you are after, and fishing conditions.  For trout and panfish, get a 7-8 foot fly rod, matched to 3-6 weight line.  For big game fish, get a 9-10 foot rod, with 8-10 weight line –even longer and larger depending on conditions!

Additional Considerations For Selecting The Best Fly Rods for Salmon and Big Game

Selecting the best fly fishing rods for salmon is like picking out the ideal shoes for a particular purpose. You can’t use training shoes for running. They can lower your performance and even put you at risk for injuries! The same is true when you are fly fishing for salmon. Without the proper rod, you won’t be able to catch those elusive trophies you’ve been dreaming about. Of course, it’s no fun when can’t cast comfortably

When choosing the ideal fishing rod, the size of the fish is among the biggest variable. However, you will need to consider other factors before you invest in any fly fishing gear. For instance, you need to ask yourself the following questions:

• How will I fish?
• Where will I fish?
• What is my budget?
• What is the quality of the fishing rod?

Other technical aspects come into play in selecting fishing rods that will improve the chances of landing salmon. Here they are:

The Length of the Rod

In general, finding the ideal salmon rod will depend on the method of fishing you will do. Salmon anglers commonly use rod lengths ranging from 8’ to 10’. These are perfect for big-game fishing. Of course, you shouldn’t forget the butt sections. As a rule of thumb, it should be anywhere from 6 to 12 inches.

Usually, the rod but will rest into your torso while playing salmon. So, if you get something that’s too long, you might end up stretching out your arms while fighting the fish. Consequently, you can get tired easily. Meanwhile, if you choose something too short, it may not sit in your rod mounts properly, especially when you’re trolling. Compared to a trout fly rod, salmon fly rods are more efficient in handling bigger fish. Typically, fly rods for salmon fishing are within the 9’ to 10’ range.

The Weight and Balance of the Rod

Of course, it is better if you can get away with a lighter rod. Ideally, you should get an 8-weight rod, but a 9-weight may be a bit overkill. On the other hand, a 7-weight may be too small. After all, it may not have adequate backbone to help you snag hefty 25 pounders.

Do not forget about balance because it is also a key factor. You should be able to balance the rod comfortably in your hand when holding it near or at the reel seat. In turn, you wouldn’t have to struggle and deal with greater stress and fatigue. So, you can get the best fun and comfort while fly fishing for salmon!

The Composite of the Salmon Rod

You will find most salmon fishing rod blanks with graphite or fiberglass. Meanwhile, some products have a combination of both materials for added flexibility and strength. Remember that you’re battling fish, so it is important to find a rod primary designed with superior durability and strength. This quality should be chosen over the product’s casting capabilities. Ideally, you should choose a rod with adequate strength for securing a solid hook set right into the bony jaws of salmon. It should also be able to handle the long, intense battles that the fish is known for.

The Price and Warranty

When you’re looking for fishing rods for sale, you should always consider the size of the fish you’re after. Remember that salmon tend to fight with a vengeance. So, it is always better to go with a heavier weight rod. As we’ve mentioned, an 8-weight rod is an ideal size to get. That said, when you’re considering quality, the better it is, the higher the price will be. Here are our tips when you’re looking at price and quality:

• Choose the best fly rods that your budget can allow.
• Ideally, you should find a product with an unconditional lifetime warranty. However, expect to spend at least $200 to find a rod with that offer. Trust us—it is worth the investment. After all, it is not uncommon for anglers to break rods sooner. Aside from that, you will only regret buying a low-quality rod with no warranty, especially when you’re fighting with salmon in saltwater.

All the big rod manufacturers offer great warranties even for their bass fishing rods. If you look around, you may find brands with programs that allow you to get a new rod even within a few days after a break.

Fast Action Fly Rods for Salmon Fishing

If you’re fly fishing for salmon in saltwater, you must ensure that you are choosing a ‘fast action’ rod. Basically, you can expect the rod to be quite stiff, allowing it to deliver optimum power. At the end of the day, you may nurse a tired shoulder. That said, there are still plenty of reasons to choose fast action rods, including the following:

Effective for Combating the Wind

Expect to battle with the wind when you’re fishing for salmon in saltwater. Well, fast action salmon fly rods are designed specifically for that purpose!

Covering Greater Distance

Since fast action rods can deliver optimum power to the line, they can deliver further cast compared to softer rods.

Ideal for Heavier Flies

You wouldn’t cast small bugs to rising salmon when you’re fly fishing in saltwater, right? In most cases, you will use wind-catching, heavy bait fish imitations. And oh boy, they can be tough to cast! That is where you’ll find a stiff, fast action fly rod useful. It will help you pull that fly out of the water, even casting it out further. In contrast, with a soft rod, you will struggle to get the fly out of the water while avoiding to strip a bunch of line.

Freshwater or Saltwater Fast Action Fly Rods?

We know you’d want all the qualities we just mentioned for salmon fly fishing in freshwater. Indeed, when you’re chasing after big fish, most saltwater rods make excellent rods for freshwater. However, you must know that most freshwater fly rods are not ideal for the conditions in the saltwater. So, if you need something that will perform excellently in both salt and freshwater, then you should opt for a fast action rod or one that is intended for saltwater fishing.

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Best Fly Rods for Salmon Fishing in 2024 – Buyers Guide

• Written By: Jamie Melvin
• Last Updated: December 27, 2023

Fly Fisher Pro is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.  Learn more .

Join me as we take a look at some of the best fly rods for salmon fishing on the market. We’ll cover a few different brands and discuss all the details you need to know to pick the right fly rod for you.

When searching for a salmon fly rod fishing is an abundance of options and it can be quite hard to pin down and understand which fly rods will work best for you and where you spend most of your time fly fishing.

Our Best Fly Rods For Salmon Fishing

Sage fly fishing – x fly rod, sage x specs:, overall score.

* How we test and review products .

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Key Features

• Comes in both Spey and Switch options
• Excellent blank and tip recovery for tighter loops on your cast
• A lot of feel for a fast action rod for better accuracy and presentation
• Tough and durable build that will handle freshwater and saltwater
• Great power for throwing 70 feet of line with ease

Tech. Specs

• Wt: 7 weight
• Size: 10 foot
• Action: Fast

The Sage Fly Fishing – X Fly Rod comes in both a two-handed Spey or a switch outfit in a rnage of weights. For salmon fishing, the Spey outfit is what I’d recommend, especially if you travel to large waters. But, the switch option is a happy medium if you often switch between fly fishing for salmon, trout and steelhead on smaller rivers.

Being a Sage fly rod , it has a high price and it might blow the budget but it is top of the line. The blank is built from top-draw graphite for durability and is equipped with Sage KonneticHD Technology for better recovery.

This gives the Sage X fly rod a quick recovery for better energy transfer and tighter loops on your casts. This will not only increase the feel and distance of your casts but also ensure excellent presentation and you’ll see your leader turnover perfectly every time you push a line.

The Sage X salmon fly rod comes with top-quality Fuji guides, a cork handle, and an aluminum unlocking seat for your reels. Everything about the Sage X fly rod is about as good as fly fishing gear gets, and it’s the best fly rod in the review, but it comes at a price.

Redington Chromer Spey Fly Rod

Redington chromer spey specs:.

• Great all-around Spey rod for most steelhead and salmon river sizes
• Super smooth and fast fly rod for accurate casting
• High-quality handle and guides made for cold weather
• Loads quickly and easily for Spey casting a large salmon fly
• Well-balanced and lightweight for consistent performance
• Wt: 6 weight
• Size: 11 foot 6 inches

The Redington Chromer Spey Fly Rod is made from a quality graphite blank and is designed to be smooth but fast . This 6 weight fly rod loads quickly and easily making your Spey casts as effortless as possible.

You’ll typically be able to throw a cast into the 60 feet range and thanks to the excellent feel and energy transfer of the Redington salmon fly rod, it’ll turn over even the big flies , like hitched tubes, you might be swinging for salmon and steelhead.

Another thing I love about this Redington salmon fly rod is that its light. You can cast consistently all day long while slowly making your way down the river or lake swinging salmon fly patterns into the depth of each pool without getting an achey arm.

This Redington salmon fly rod also comes equipped with a durable aluminum reel seat, top-notch cork handle, and polymer pinch grip sections that help maintain your body temperature which is ideal if you love swinging flies for steelhead in the dead of winter.

Orvis Clearwater Two-Handed Salmon Fly Rod

Orvis clearwater two-handed salmon specs:.

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• Durable mixed modulus graphite rod build
• Great power and strength to fight big salmon and steelhead
• Excellent for casting long distances with accuracy
• Top-quality cork handle and reel seat that can survive saltwater
• Excellent length/weight for big and small freshwater lakes and rivers
• Wt: 8 weight
• Size: 11 foot

The Orvis Clearwater Two-Handed Salmon Fly Rod is  made up of a mixture of standard, intermediate, and high modulus graphite which is said to make the Orvis salmon fly rod 10-15% stronger.

This doesn’t mean it’ll survive being slammed in a car door (we have all been there) but it does help when you hook a monster salmon or steelhead, particularly when fishing near snags, as y ou can use the strength and backbone of the fly fishing rod to control the fish.

This Orvis fly rod comes in a range of weights from a 3wt for Czech nymphing for trout all the way to a 10wt for when you’re chasing giant salmon like kings in Alaska. I’d go for the 8 wt fly rod as it is an all-around weight fly rod that will transfer between swinging big flies for trout , bass, steelhead, and it has enough weight to handle a big salmon too.

These Orvis fly rods cast pretty well and you should expect to throw lines of 50-80 feet quite easily, especially with a Spey line on the fly rod. This salmon fly rod comes complete with a top-quality aluminum seat for your reels, a proper premium cork handle, and top-notch guides too.

Echo Swing Two-Handed & Switch Fly Rod

Echo swing specs:.

• Excellent price for the quality of the rod
• Med-fast for a better feel on your Spey cast
• Quality stripping guides, reel seat, and handle
• Great strength for handling salmon and steelhead
• Light for tireless all-day casting
• Size: 13 foot
• Action: Medium-fast

The Echo Swing Two-Handed & Switch Fly Rod is actually a trout Spey rod and would be fitting on a trip to Alaska where the tactics and species you’re after can change in minutes. This Echo fly rod comes in a range of weights from a 6-8 weight and the 7 weight rod in a length of 13 ft is the happy medium outfit.

The extra few feet on this Echo fly rod outfit means you could even use it on big river fishing spots in Oregon and BC with ease but being a 7wt, the outfit will still be light enough so you can swing flies for salmon and steelhead all day long. You might worry that it might not have the power to catch a big 20lb salmon but these fly rods are built tough and can handle it.

These Echo fly rods are medium-fast giving you more feel which is great when you’re pushing a line or just learning how to spey cast. The Echo fly rods load nicely and will have you throwing lines of up to 60 feet with ease.

This Echo outfit comes complete with a great seat for your reels, a top-of-the-line cork handle, and stripping guides. They’re so durable you could even use them in saltwater. One more great thing about this Echo salmon fly rod is the price. It’s a great value rod if you’re on a budget and it still comes with a lifetime warranty.

What types of fly rods are best for salmon?

When it comes to fly fishing for salmon and the fly fishing gear you need, you have two types of fly rods to choose from; switch fly rods and Spey fly rods.

Switch Fly Rods

Switch fly rods are great salmon fly rods for smaller rivers . They are just like single-handed fly rods and but with a small handle on the bottom of the rod. This means you can fish them for multiple fish from trout to salmon and steelhead, and use them to throw your salmon fly with an overhead or roll cast. They are great for smaller rivers but won’t have the power of Spey rods needed on large salmon rivers.

Spey Fly Rods

Spey fly rods have two handles and are long so you can Spey cast the large distances required when fly fishing on wide salmon rivers . If your salmon fish often, and on wide rivers, these are the best fly rods to go for. You’ll always be able to fish your salmon fly where it needs to be, even if that’s 80 feet across the river.

What Weight Fly Rod Is Best For Salmon Fly Fishing?

As with all fly fishing gear you need to match it to the weight of the fish and water you’re fly fishing in . This is why brands make salmon fly rods in a range of weights and lengths.

As a general rule, you should be fishing an 8-10wt fly rod when fly fishing for salmon. These are heavy enough to handle a 20lb plus salmon and if you’re going for king salmon that get up to 50 lbs plus, a 10wt is recommended.

Your gear should never be lighter than a 6wt as it won’t have the strength to cast a hefty salmon fly the distance needed on salmon rivers.

What Length Fly Rod Is Best When Fly Fishing For Salmon?

When fly fishing for salmon how long your fly rods are makes a huge difference to the waters you can fish. When using equipment like Spey rods, you need them to be longer so you can manage the line and make your Spey casts effectively and the happy medium is around 13ft.

When it comes to using fly fishing gear like Switch or single-handed rods for salmon, the rods only need to be about 9-11ft as your overhead cast will help you get the distance needed.

Does it matter what material the fly rod is made from?

Fly fishing gear gets more and more sophisticated every year and when it comes to rods, there are a few materials to choose from including; bamboo, fiberglass, and graphite.

Almost all the fly fishing gear brands make rods in all the materials mentioned above but when it comes to the best fly rods, they are pretty much all made from graphite.

Graphite is strong, doesn’t bend too much like fiberglass or bamboo, and thus performs the best when it comes to energy transfer on the cast. The use of graphite in fly rods is why we have such fast action rods on the market today.

When it comes to salmon, you’ll want to fish with graphite. It’s a lot lighter than both bamboo and fiberglass, is easier to thrown lines with, pushes better distances, and is overall a lot more responsive.

Bamboo and fiberglass can bend almost in half, giving them a slow action and line speed. They are more suited for super delicate presentations of tiny dry flies on short casts to spooky trout.

You might want to check out our post here on making a bamboo fly rod .

Which is the best fly rod to take fly fishing for salmon?

The best fly rod and the clear winner in my eyes is the Sage X salmon fly rod. These fly rods are built to perform and with the Sage X’s fast action and quick recovery, your casting and presentation will be the best it can be. Fly rods from fly fishing gear brands like Sage do come at a high price but they do have a lifetime guarantee – so you’re getting a fly rod for life.

The runner-up best fly rod that’s ideal on a budget is the Echo Swing. This outfit is one of the best fly rods for switching between salmon, steelhead, and trout that’ll have you pushing those long lines you need on larger and smaller rivers. It’s also durable, light, and like all the brands, Echo gives you a lifetime guarantee too.

Thanks for reading my article, I hope you enjoyed it and found the right salmon fly fishing rod for you. Enjoy swinging those flies this summer and tight lines!

Jamie Melvin

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The 13 Best Fly Rods of 2024 – Rod Buyer’s Guide

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Shop / ZT Double Hand Travel Rod

ZT Double Hand Travel Rod

USD  820.00

In early 2020 the world of travel came to a standstill. But rather than wait out the disruption, we got to work creating the ultimate travel rod. Read more

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Model chart

Product description.

In early 2020 the world of travel came to a standstill. But rather than wait out the disruption, we got to work – with the aim of creating the ultimate fly fishing travel rod.

After nearly two years of research, development and rigorous testing, the world started to open up again, and we we launched the LOOP ZT.

As a travelling angler you can never be fully sure what conditions you might face at your destination, but the majority of travel rods are usually a compromise between two parameters – fast sinking lines vs. floating lines with fine presentation. Or, they have been designed to heavily favour one or the other.

With this in mind, we felt an obligation to produce a series of multi-piece rods that perfectly combines strength and lightness, whilst also maintaining the progressive casting taper that has become synonymous with LOOP. Thanks to the unique incorporation of graphene particles into the nano resin, we firmly believe that we have achieved this perfect balance.

Made using 40-45 ton nano graphene carbon fibre of the highest specification available – ensuring the smoothest, most powerful action of any travel rod we’ve ever come across – the ZT series also features a AAA+ grade cork handle, specially designed lightweight reel seat, ceramic lined titanium stripping guides and titanium plated stainless steel snake guides.

Available in 5 unique models and a 6 piece format designed for easy and safe transportation no matter what the destination – the ZT series is simply the best fly fishing travel companion you’ll ever have.

Model Specs:

6122 – The 6122 is a smooth but still powerful rod that is perfect when stealth, delicacy and presentation is required. Bombers and hitch flies on this rod are amazing but of course it handles the smaller tubes or hook flies equally well. An absolute gem when fishing salmon, sea trout or migrating browns.

7130 – “Steelhead 101” but perfect for medium sized salmon rivers as well. A rod with a smooth, deep, powerful action that is perfect for the Skagit style angler. Although, a Scandi line is an absolute joy to pair this rod with.

8132 – If you are fishing medium to larger rivers the 8132 will cover most situations. The rod works equally well with Scandi style casting as with Skagit style, floating or sinking lines. If you are in need of distance there is certainly enough power in the rod to provide that.

9140 – The all year around rod for most salmon rivers. Just like the 8132, this rod covers most situations you might encounter. The 9140 has even more power to lift and cast sinking lines the way you like it. Still, the rod has very good accuracy and enough finesse to make fishing with floating line and small flies a real pleasure.

10150 – The big gun in the ZT series. Look no further if you are fishing bigger rivers and are in need of a rod that can lift those heavy sinking lines and send them straight over the river again. It is not only a sinking line rod though. If you want to fish floating lines, the rod performs exceptionally with both shooting heads and long belly lines.

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Best Salmon Rods: Our Picks for 2024

More often than I would care to admit, I find myself stuck in the middle of the debate over which fish is stronger: salmon or steelhead.

The answer, in my opinion, is easy, but I get a lot of hate for it: salmon are the harder fighting of the two by far.

Steelheaders can cast hate all they want, but salmon are some of the strongest fish in any freshwater river in my experience.

The question then arises about what gear is best for salmon, and, more specifically, which rod. It’s a question that doesn’t have a cut and dry answer. As with any other fishing, the rod you use is going to depend on the technique. That’s why many salmon anglers have multiple rods rigged up for a day on the water.

Sure, it’s not practical for bank anglers to be carrying a bunch of different set ups with them each and every day, but if you narrow down how you’re going to be chasing these fish, you can then determine what rod you want to use.

To help with that, we've created a buying guide for the best salmon rods to cover any technique:

Best Salmon Rods Reviewed

St. croix triumph salmon and steelhead rod - best spinning rod for salmon.

Recommended Length: 8’6

Recommended Power: Medium Heavy

Recommended Action: Fast

A spinning rod is one of the most versatile when it comes to river salmon.

Veteran salmon anglers all have at least one, and for someone new to salmon fishing, a spinning rod is the best place to start. With the right length, power, and action, a single spinning rod can cover techniques from float fishing to chucking big spoons, spinners, and crankbaits.

And a good spinning rod means not having to carry multiple rods when walking the bank.

Having been handcrafting rods for over 70 years, St.Croix is no stranger to manufacturing high quality rods at a great price. St. Croix’s Triumph Salmon and Steelhead line up of rods is no exception, offering a blend of high quality components at a fraction of the price of higher-end rods.

For an all-around salmon rod that will cover multiple techniques, we recommend going with the 8’6, medium-heavy, fast-action model.

This rod has the length needed to properly present a float while being able to handle the weight of casting lures . With a line rate of 8- to 17- pound test, it’s a rod that can handle big, strong chinook but is still versatile enough that you can downsize for smaller sockeye. Where some rods - even the ‘higher-end’ ones - feel limp, as if they don’t have the power to handle an angry salmon, the Triumph Salmon and Steelhead rod is strong enough to turn a big fish without ever feeling like it's going to let you down.

John's a huge fan of these rods, and he finds that they cast and fight with best he's ever held.

• Every rod is handcrafted in the U.S.
• Premium SCII carbon construction
• High-quality aluminum-oxide guides
• Premium comfortable and durable cork handle
• Loads and casts well
• Great backbone when the fight gets mean
• Heavier than some higher-priced steelhead spinning rods

G. Loomis E6X Steelhead Casting Rod - Best Casting Rod for Salmon

FishUSA | Bass Pro | Cabela's

Recommended Length: 8’6 or 9’

Casting rods are possibly the single most popular rod to use when chasing salmon, and the major difference between casting rods and spinning rods is that casting rods are much better with heavier gear, and big salmon demand tough, heavy gear.

Whether you’re float fishing, drift fishing, or casting lures, casting rods have the power to handle strong salmon in big water, which is why salmon anglers from the west coast to the Great Lakes often turn to them. If you’re looking for a big water rod, a casting rod is the way to go.

Since the early 80s, G. Loomis has been handcrafting high-quality graphite fishing rods for any situation. Having a hand in taking graphite from the lightweight but fragile rod material it was back then, to the strong sensitive rods we know today, G. Loomis is one of the most well known brands in fishing.

Every rod in the G. Loomis lineup is handcrafted with the utmost care, using their multi-tapered design to reduce weight while reinforcing possible weak spots.. Strong, yet sensitive and lightweight, the E6X casting rods feature the qualities G. Loomis is famous for at a reasonable price.

With eleven different models, there is an E6X casting rod for any situation.

Most are best-suited for steelhead, but they can also be great for salmon. We recommend going with the 8’6 medium-heavy, fast-action model. With its length and sensitivity, you'll find that it's a rod that’s perfect for float or drift fishing but can still properly present spoons and spinners, while also having the power to handle a big, angry chinook.

• Multi-taper design reinforces stress points while reducing weight
• Handcrafted in the U.S.
• Light and comfortable cork handle
• Unmatched performance and durability
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Can break if pushed too far

G. Loomis GLX Centerpin Rod - Best Centerpin Rod for Salmon

FishUSA | G. Loomis

Recommended Length: 15’

Recommended Power: Medium Light

Recommended Action: Moderate

While centerpin fishing has exploded in popularity over the years, it's something that is geared toward steelhead and not salmon, which is why there are very few options available in the way of the typically heavier salmon rods.

But not only is centerpin fishing for salmon extremely effective, it's also one of the most exhilarating ways to do it.

With light lines and dragless reels, a centerpin rod takes the brunt of the fighting punishment, acting as a shock absorber to keep those light lines from snapping under the weight of a big salmon. The longer rods also aid in float control, making it easy to mend and control the line above the float and prevent that line from dragging the float and creating an unnatural presentation.

The price of the G. Loomis GLX could be enough to scare anyone, but hold one of these rods, and you’ll quickly understand the care and craftsmanship that go into each and every one. The GLX is lightweight, even for a long rod, perfectly balanced, and incredibly strong. It's also backed by a limited, lifetime warranty. There may be less expensive options out there, but if you're looking for the ultimate centerpin rod for salmon, the GLX is hard to beat.

Most centerpin rods are made to fish with much lighter set-ups than normally used for salmon, and because of that, we recommend the 15’ medium light, moderate action GLX. While not rated for heavy line, the length helps to counteract that during a fight and protects the line, meaning that even when fishing for trophy chinook, you can get away with a lighter setup. With the right terminal tackle, this rod has more than enough strength and power to handle big salmon, and as an added bonus can double as a big-water steelhead rod.

Is this Dan's favorite salmon rod?

Quite possibly!

• Lightweight and perfectly balanced for less fatigue when fishing with a long rod
• High-quality components from the cork to the guides and reel seat
• Strength and durability unmatched by other factory centerpin rods
• Requires a ton of skill to use effectively

Reddington Claymore Spey Rod - Best Spey Rod for Salmon

Recommended Length: 13’6"

Line Weight: 8wt

Spey fishing is a heart-pounding way to catch salmon.

From smaller sockeye to giant kings, if you haven’t tried catching them on a spey rod, then you don’t know what you’re missing!

Typically reserved for the big rivers of the west coast or for Atlantic salmon in the east, spey fishing has also gained steam in Great Lakes tributaries. The downside here is that there are few rivers large enough to effectively fish a spey rod or for it to be necessary, for that matter.

There is no shortage of spey rods on the market, and from the high-quality and expensive, to the bare bones, fly anglers have a lot to choose from. The Reddington Claymore Spey Rod falls right in that sweet spot, where it doesn’t price you right out of fishing, but is also high-quality, lightweight, and easy to fish with - qualities usually reserved for high end rods. A great rod for both beginner and advanced spey fisherman, the Claymore has a smooth and powerful blank that is perfectly balanced to reduce the fatigue that can come with a day of two-handed casting.

The 13’6 8wt model is ideal for salmon, both Pacific and Atlantic, and while it may seem a little on the long side when fishing in Great Lake tributaries, you’re going to love the extra length and power when trying to stop a big salmon. 

• Long enough to really make a difference in the fight
• Anodized aluminum down-locking reel seat improves rod balance
• Fast action for easy casting and efficient hooksets
• Premium cork handle
• Lifetime warranty
• Too long for small water and tight spaces

Echo SR Switch Rod - Best Switch Rod for Salmon

Amazon   | Fish USA

Recommended Length: 10’10

Simply put, a switch rod is a hybrid rod that combines the casting distance of a two-handed spey rod with the accessibility of a conventional, single-handed fly rod. The result is a rod that can be used to fish multiple techniques, from swinging flies to indicator fishing and everything in between. Fishing a switch rod for salmon is an underutilized but effective way to cover rivers using multiple techniques in a single day without having to carry several different rods.

The Echo SR Switch Rod does an excellent job of achieving the right balance to properly present multiple techniques, optimizing two-handed casting while combining it with the ability to single hand cast in tight quarters. No matter what technique you’re using, this rod loads up well and is easy to make long, accurate casts with, even in confined areas.

Dan really appreciates the obvious versatility of this rod, and as one-rod solution to salmon fishing, the Echo SR is a tough choice to beat.

As with a spey rod, we recommend using the longer 10’10 8wt model, as it provides the power needed to battle big salmon without being so long that it’s hard to cast in close quarters.

• Removable and interchangeable fighting butt
• Perfect load awareness to easily cast any type of fly line
• Large stripping guides for heavier line weights
• Durable and comfortable composite cork handle
• Heavier than comparable switch rods

Sage Salt R8 - Best Single-Handed Fly Rod for Salmon

Line Weight: 10wt

Since the inception of two-handed fly rods and switch rods, single-handed fly rods for salmon are rarely seen on the water anymore.

That's a real shame: these older-style rods just don’t get the love they deserve.

But they shouldn’t be ignored, especially when it comes to fishing salmon in tributaries and narrow steams where single-handed rods might be the best option for big fish in tight spaces.

As much as Dan and John love a long salmon rod for working flies - and fighting big fish on a simple reel - length can be an issue when your casting or fighting under overhanging vegetation or hiking into a river through thick woods and entangling underbrush.

And despite it's one-handed design, the Sage Salt R8 is a big fish rod, plain and simple. Designed with the power to handle large, open water ocean fish like tarpon and permit, this rod is just as good at taking control of river kings where casting and fighting space is at a premium.

Moreover, the Salt R8 can cast the heavy, awkward flies used to catch those salmon with ease.

Sage uses the best of the best in materials and technology with this rod, and the price shows it, but so does the quality.

As far as single-handed fly rods for salmon fishing go, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better one.

• Super lightweight
• Great for close-quarters casting and fighting
• Strength and durability to handle the biggest salmon
• Heavy duty reel seat
• Original owner lifetime warranty
• Not great for long distance casting

Selecting the Right Salmon Rod

Choosing the right salmon rod is a matter of personal preference based on the technique you decide to use. What’s best for one angler may not be for another. With that being said, however, there are a few things to take into consideration when selecting the best salmon rod for you.

Determining what technique you’re going to be using is the first and most important step in figuring out which salmon rod is best for you.

While the right spinning rod or casting rod can cover multiple techniques, many salmon rods are single-technique. You’re only going to use a centerpin rod for float fishing or a spey rod for casting big streamers. Deciding how you want to target these fish will greatly narrow down your rod choices.

Once you’ve determined your preferred technique, you’re going to want to consider the rivers you will be fishing. For example, a spey rod isn’t going to be the most ideal choice when you’re fishing small rivers that offer little in the way of casting room. On the contrary, a single-handed fly rod isn’t going to offer the casting ability needed to get your fly out to the fish holding in big water.

Target Species

From the multiple different species of Pacific salmon to hard-fighting Atlantic salmon, your target species is going to determine the specifics of the rod you choose. For smaller sized salmon, you may be able to get away with something lighter, a rod more comparable to what you might use for steelhead or resident trout. On the other hand, chasing big kings is going to mean you’ll need something much heavier and more powerful.

Final Thoughts

There's no disputing the fact that salmon are strong - stronger than most freshwater fish, and more and more people are targeting them in the rivers they migrate to. As angler interest grows, so too does the amount of gear available, most notably fishing rods.

Choosing the right rod for salmon fishing can be more than a little overwhelming at times. No matter how experienced with salmon fishing we are, innovation in not just the rods themselves but the techniques used continue to make that decision a tougher one.

We hope we were able to shed a little light on the process with our picks for the best salmon rods.

Leave us a comment and let us know what you think!

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How Do I Choose a Fly Rod?

Start by determining which weight of fly rod you need, based on your target species. If you’re interested in mid-sized or larger trout, look for a 4-, 5-, or 6-weight fly rod. For bass, look at a 6- or 7- weight fly rod. Steelhead and salmon will require a 7-, 8-, or 9-weight fly rod.

Then think about length. Rods in the 8’6” and 9’ range are the most versatile and most common. But small stream anglers tend to like easy-to-maneuver rods in the 6’ to 7’ range.

Finally, consider other aspects of your fishing to determine which rod will suit you best. Orvis designs and produces fly rods that fulfill the specific needs of expert anglers, as well as affordable, incredibly well-made fly rods that welcome newcomers to the sport.

What Does the Weight of a Fly Rod Mean?

The weight of a fly rod is the size of the fly line that rod is designed to cast. Heavier lines can be cast farther; can cut through wind on open saltwater flats and big rivers; and can help punch bigger and heavier flies through the air. Heavier lines put more force on a rod, and thus require a sturdier fly rod. Lighter-weight lines allow for delicate presentations of smaller flies, and so lightweight fly rods are built with precision presentation in mind. Choose your rod weight and fly line weight based on which type of water you’ll primarily be fishing. You can get by within 1 to 2 weights of the ideal rod/line weight for a piece of water. So if you’re fishing a big river for big trout and should be using a 6-weight rod and line, for example, you could get away with a 5- or 7-weight.

What Is the Best All-Around Fly Rod Weight?

The best all-around fly rod weight for freshwater is a 4-, 5-, or 6-weight in 8’ 6” or 9’ lengths, and for saltwater an 8- or a 9-weight in a 9’ length. A tremendous variety of fishing can be accomplished with these options.

Which Orvis Fly Rod Should I Use?

• Helios: If you’re an experienced angler who demands precision and accuracy, explore our Helios line of fly rods. We engineered the Helios rods to reduce the variables and harness the energy behind each cast—translating to impressive accuracy. No window is too small for this precise rod, thanks to the increased hoop strength that reduces vibration for a truly accurate cast. Place flies right where you want them—every time—with the enhanced power and pinpoint accuracy of our Helios fly rods. Cast the Helios D if you’re looking for reliably easy distance; it blends unmatched power with incredible accuracy. For tricky water, spooky fish, and tiny dries, rely on the finesse-focused Helios F , which will consistently present a fly at 60 feet, with a delicate presentation and surprising sensitivity. The Helios fly rod offers power, accuracy, and feel, whether you’re fishing a stream or the flats.
• Clearwater: In our bestselling Clearwater series , you’ll find the ideal weight and flex for any application. Our budget-friendly Clearwater Switch & Spey rods put the world of two-handed casting within reach.
• Recon: Our Recon series of fly rods is designed with the adventure angler in mind. Four-piece construction allows for easy storage, and convenient straps secure the rod to a backpack when trekking deep into parts unknown. This rod is incredibly lightweight, yet stands ready to tackle the toughest fish on the greatest adventures.
• Superfine : Our Superfine fly rods have the power and precision to accurately present flies with a delicate touch to avoid spooking fish. You’ll crave the crisp, clean cast and slow action offered by this fiberglass rod. Superfine glass boasts modern technology that mingles with a decidedly classic look in a fly rod you’ll want to show off.
• Encounter: Our affordable Encounter fly rod outfits are armed with high-grade components perfect for new anglers, and for seasoned anglers looking for a bargain on a spare. The Encounter fly rod outfit comes equipped with a large arbor Encounter reel, weight-forward floating fly line, backing, and leader.

Our fly rod selector tool can help narrow your search to specific rods of the right series, weight, and length, based on your fishing environment, target species, fly box, and other variables that are important to you.

How Do I Choose a Fly Rod Weight?

Choose your fly rod weight based on your target species. The size of what you’re fishing for determines the weight fly line you’ll need, and your line weight matches your fly rod weight. For example, if you’re heading to a local stream for brook trout, a 5-weight rod with a 5-weight line will do. For chasing barracuda or permit in saltwater, you’ll need a 10-weight rod and line. Generally, 1- to 4-weight rods suit smaller trout. A 5-weight rod is a great all-around option, and a 6-weight is suitable for larger trout, bass, or smaller steelhead. Seven- to 9-weight rods are at the top of the freshwater spectrum, and rods weighted from 10 upwards are reserved for bigger saltwater species.

What Weight of Fly Rod Should I Use?

Use the fly rod weight that best supports the fly line that will handle your target species. In other words, you should choose your fly rod weight based on the type of fish you hope to catch. Here are some general guidelines for fish size and fight with the corresponding rod weight:

• 1–4 WT rod:  smaller trout, panfish
• 4–6 WT rod:  bass, average-to-larger trout
• 6–8 WT rod:  carp, salmon, bass, monster trout, some smaller saltwater species like bonefish or redfish, steelhead
• 9–10 WT rod:  big salmon, steelhead, striped bass, muskie
• 10–14 WT rod:  tarpon, mahi-mahi, bluefin, giant trevally, sailfish

Do Heavier-Weight Fly Rods Cast Farther?

A heavier-weight fly rod does not guarantee a farther cast. As a rule of thumb and all things being equal, a longer rod will cast farther than a shorter rod, and a heavier weight line can go farther than a lighter weight line. A long 5-weight rod is capable of swinging as far as 90 feet, although most anglers will need to cast only to about 50 feet. In the end, what matters most for longer casts is proper technique.

What Is a 5-Weight Fly Rod Good For?

A useful all-around fly rod, the 5-weight is good for trout, grayling, and bass.

What Is a 7-Weight Fly Rod Good For?

A 7-weight fly rod is good for huge trout, carp, salmon, and bass.

What Length of Fly Rod Do I Need?

Rod lengths vary greatly, but there are only a few variables to consider when deciding which length you need. Shorter rods between 6 and 8 feet perform well on small creeks with obstacles you’ll have to cast around, such as logs or rocks. Longer rods between 8 and 10 feet suit larger bodies of water where you need to make lengthier casts to reach fish, or gain added reach to avoid drag. If you’re a beginning fly fisher, any rod with the right line weight between 8 and 9 feet long is probably a reliable choice.

The Best Fly-Fishing Rods in the Industry

Browse our large selection of premium fly rods, fly rod combos, and fly-fishing outfits to find the perfect setup for any species or budget. With more than 150 years of rod building experience, it’s no wonder anglers look to Orvis for the highest-quality fly rods in the industry. Our fly rods are the best on the market, the culmination of cutting-edge technology, precision, and expertise. Explore our collection and find exactly what you're looking for to equip your next fly-fishing adventure. Discover a fly rod for every excursion—saltwater, freshwater, Spey casting, small creeks, and warm-water adventures. When you’re ready to choose a new fly rod, start by determining which weight of fly rod you need, based on your target species. If you’re interested in mid-sized or larger trout, look for a 4-, 5-, or 6-weight fly rod. For bass, look at a 6- or 7- weight fly rod. Steelhead and salmon will require a 7-, 8-, or 9-weight fly rod. Then think about length. Rods in the 8’6” and 9’ range are the most versatile and most common. But small stream anglers tend to like easy-to-maneuver rods in the 6’ to 7’ range. Finally, consider other aspects of your fishing to determine which rod will suit you best. Or start with our handy fly rod selector to get an idea of the best option for you. Orvis designs and produces fly rods that fulfill the specific needs of expert anglers, as well as affordable, incredibly well-made fly rods that welcome newcomers to the sport. We take great pride in outfitting fly fishermen and women around the globe, as we have for well over a century. Our goal remains the same as it was in the beginning—providing a superior collection of quality fly rods at reasonable prices for the discerning angler.

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Guideline continues to lead the way in the inovation of modern salmon fishing, commonly known as the Scandinavian style or simply “Scandi”. The majority of our double-hand rods are optimized for the Scandinavian casting and fishing style, featuring short to medium-long casting strokes. However, they can also accommodate the more traditional style of spey casting. The utilization of shooting heads with various densities places significant demands on rod design, and this quality serves as a benchmark for all Guideline double-hand rods.

NT11 6-piece double handers featuring the latest in technology in a travel friendly package without sacrificing any performance. Taking the scandi style fishing to the next level.

1 099.99 USD

Guideline Stoked bring entry level double hand fly rods to a new dimension of performance. Features eco-friendly components and the latest in materials and production technology.

Let us introduce our new type of rod action - Fast Full Flex, a rod action type that truly merges the best with the feeling of a super light rod and explosiveness, but together with an almost nostalgic type of feeling.

NT11 Fast Full Flex 6-PC

NT11 4-piece double handers featuring the latest in technology and are just slightly softer but has the same fantastic rod action as the 6 pc models, and will cast and perform at equal levels.

1 049.99 USD

The Elevation series is a super light and smooth medium fast action range of rods. Designed for anglers at all levels. Utilising sustainable production and eco friendly components.

Elevation DH

The LPX Chrome 6pc Double Hand fly rods feature a brand-new rod action that connects you with the cast in a totally new way. C.A.P M4.0™ technology delivers ultra-light blanks with superb stability and response.

LPX Chrome 6-PC

Super light and strong double hand rods with a deep progressive rod action. Built with C.A.P M4.0™ technology, an advanced carbon layup that creates a unique rod flex. Premium rod stacked full of features, rarely seen at these prices.

LPX Chrome 4-PC

Since 1993, knowledge and passion have been reflected in each of our products. We are dedicated to meet the high expectations of the modern fly angler with lesser impact on nature, while giving rise to everlasting moments by the water.

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Santiam fishing rods... designed and perfected on our own home waters here in oregon and alaska. built to offer the best fishing experience . we proudly offer quality products at a great price.

Salmon Steelhead Rods

Salmon and steelhead angling is a technical challange. whether you jig, drift, toss spinners, side-drift, or pull plugs--we offer many great 3 and 4 piece rods for all your fishing styles. models ranging from 7' to 10'8" to cover all your fishing demands..

Surf Fishing Rods

There are many surf rods used for saltwater fishing but few as 4 piece intended for travel ranging from 9' to 12' in length. we  produce compact, durable and rugged surf rods for travel. our rods are built with a slim x flock grip for casting ease, durable anodized aluminum reel seat, and ceramic guides..

Halibut Big Species Rods

There are many big rods you can use for big species fishing but few as a 2 piece rod intended for travel. our big species rods offer durable guides and tip with heavy-duty braced conventional guides, and a powerful ferrule and handle system.

Kokanee/Trout/ Panfish Rods

Our light rods are great for trout, crappie, bass, and most any pan-fish you may desire to catch. these rods break down so small, there is no reason not to have one within reach at all times., fly fishing rods.

With a passion for fly fishing, we set out to produce quality and value for all our fly rods. We have relied on our own experience and many fishermen's advice in creating what we believe are the perfect travel rods. We truly beleive that we offer rods with true performance at a great price. 

• Angler Resources

The Best Salmon Rods: Top Picks for Every Technique

By: FishUSA Staff

September 10, 2024

Salmon fishing is an exhilarating experience that requires the right gear to maximize your success on the water. Whether you prefer spinning, trolling, or fly fishing, having the correct rod is crucial for landing these powerful fish. Below, we explore some of the best salmon rods available for each technique, highlighting their unique features and why they are highly regarded by anglers.

Table of Contents

Best spinning rods for salmon, best trolling rods for salmon, best fly rods for salmon.

• Salmon Rod Buying Guide

Final Thoughts

Fishusa flagship salmon & steelhead spinning rods.

The FishUSA Flagship Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Rods offer an exceptional combination of value and performance. Designed with input from experienced anglers, these rods provide the proper action and strength needed to handle large salmon. The rods are lightweight yet robust, allowing for long fishing sessions without fatigue.

Key Features

• Length: Available in various lengths, ideal for different fishing conditions and techniques.
• Action: Moderate-fast action for a balanced mix of power and bend to keep fish pinned.
• Material: Strategically placed blend of 36 and 24-ton graphite in the blank and tip allows for strength and durability without sacrificing proper action or weight.
• Best For: Anglers looking for a versatile spinning rod that can handle various salmon fishing scenarios, from float fishing to casting spoons, spinners, or other lures.

G. Loomis GCX Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Rod

The G. Loomis GCX Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Rod is a premium choice for serious anglers. Known for its exceptional sensitivity and power, the GCX series allows you to detect the lightest bites and handle aggressive fish with ease. This rod is designed to provide maximum control and casting accuracy, making it a favorite among experienced salmon anglers.

• Length: Available in a range of lengths to suit different fishing environments.
• Action: Fast action for quick hook sets and superior control.
• Material: High-modulus graphite construction for a lightweight yet strong build.
• Best For: Experienced anglers who demand top performance in challenging conditions.

Lamiglas X-11 Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Rod

The Lamiglas X-11 Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Rod is a well-balanced rod that offers excellent performance at an affordable price. This rod is known for its durability and versatility, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned anglers. The X-11 series is designed to handle a variety of fishing techniques, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.

• Length: Multiple lengths available, providing flexibility for different fishing styles.
• Action: Noodle, Moderate-fast, and Fast actions to provide an option for any salmon fishing style or angler preference.
• Material: Fiberglass and graphite composite for enhanced durability and performance.
• Best For: Anglers seeking a reliable and versatile rod that won’t break the bank.

FishUSA Flagship Trolling Rods

The FishUSA Flagship Trolling Rods are built specifically for the rigors of salmon trolling. These rods offer the strength needed to handle large fish and heavy tackle, while still providing the right actions to troll a variety of baits in numerous ways. The Flagship series is designed with high-quality components to ensure long-lasting performance, including hard ceramic inserts on certain rod model’s guides for trolling with wire and copper lines.

• Length: Available in various lengths to accommodate different trolling setups.
• Action: Moderate action, perfect for absorbing the shock of strong runs.
• Material: 24-Ton Graphite composite construction for a strong yet responsive rod.
• Best For: Anglers who want a durable and effective trolling rod at a reasonable price.

Shimano Compre Salmon Trolling Rod

The Shimano Compre Salmon Trolling Rod is a high-performance rod that is perfect for dedicated salmon anglers. Designed with Shimano’s advanced technologies, this rod offers superior control, making it easier to land powerful salmon. The Compre series is built to withstand the harsh conditions of trolling while maintaining excellent performance.

• Length: Offered in multiple lengths, ensuring you have the right tool for your trolling needs.
• Action: Moderate action for enhanced control and power.
• Material: High-quality graphite for a lightweight yet powerful rod.
• Best For: Serious anglers who need a dependable rod for long days of trolling.

St. Croix Onchor Salmon & Steelhead Trolling Rod

The St. Croix Onchor Salmon & Steelhead Trolling Rod is designed for maximum durability and performance in the demanding world of salmon trolling. St. Croix is known for its craftsmanship, and the Onchor series is no exception, offering superior strength and sensitivity. This rod is ideal for anglers who troll in challenging conditions and need a rod that can handle the pressure.

• Length: Various lengths available to match your trolling strategy.
• Action: Moderate action for smooth control and a good landing percentage.
• Material: SCIII carbon fiber construction for a robust and responsive rod.
• Best For: Anglers who need a high-performance rod that can handle the toughest trolling conditions.

Orvis Clearwater Big Game & Saltwater Fly Rod

The Orvis Clearwater Big Game & Saltwater Fly Rod is a versatile and powerful rod designed for targeting large salmon and other big game fish. This rod offers a smooth, powerful casting action, making it ideal for handling a lot of weight and battling strong fish. The Clearwater series is known for its excellent performance and value, making it a top choice for both beginners and experienced fly anglers.

• Length: Available in various lengths to suit different casting styles and fishing environments.
• Action: Fast action for powerful casts and precise control.
• Material: High-quality graphite for a lightweight and durable rod.
• Best For: Fly anglers targeting large salmon in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

Douglas LRS Fly Rod

The Douglas LRS Fly Rod is a high-performance rod designed for anglers who demand the best in their fly fishing gear. The LRS series is known for its smooth casting action, excellent sensitivity, and strong backbone, making it perfect for targeting powerful salmon. This rod is built with high-quality components to ensure durability and long-lasting performance.

• Length: Available in lengths that cater to both short and long casts.
• Action: Fast action for quick, powerful casts and excellent line control.
• Material: High-modulus graphite for a strong, lightweight build.
• Best For: Serious fly anglers who need a rod that can handle the power and speed of large salmon.

St. Croix Imperial USA Fly Rod

The St. Croix Imperial USA Fly Rod is a beautifully crafted rod that offers a perfect balance of power and finesse. Designed for salmon and steelhead fishing, this rod provides the strength needed to fight big fish, while maintaining the sensitivity to make delicate presentations. The Imperial USA series is built in the U.S. and is known for its premium performance at a competitive price.

• Length: Available in a variety of lengths for different fishing scenarios.
• Action: Moderate-fast action for smooth casting and precise control.
• Material: SCII graphite construction for a durable and responsive rod.
• Best For: Fly anglers who want a high-quality, American-made rod that excels in both power and performance.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Salmon Rod

When selecting the best salmon rod, it's essential to consider various factors that can significantly impact your fishing success. Here’s what you need to know:

Type of Fishing

Spinning rods are versatile and easy to use, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced anglers. They are suitable for a variety of techniques, including casting and drifting.

Trolling rods are designed for dragging lures behind a moving boat. They need to be strong enough to handle the pressure of the water and the fish, yet sensitive enough to detect strikes.

Fly Fishing

Fly rods for salmon are built to cast a lot of weight and handle powerful fish. They need to be flexible for casting yet strong enough to battle large salmon.

Shorter Rods (8-9 feet)

Shorter rods offer better control and are ideal for casting in tight spaces or smaller rivers.

Longer Rods (10-14 feet)

Longer rods provide better line control, making them ideal for drifting baits or managing long casts in open water.

Fast Action

Fast action rods bend mostly at the tip, providing quick hook sets and excellent control. They are ideal for experienced anglers targeting aggressive salmon.

Moderate Action

Moderate action rods bend more towards the middle, offering a balance between sensitivity and power. They are suitable for various fishing techniques and conditions.

Material and Build Quality

Graphite rods are lightweight, sensitive, and strong, making them a popular choice for all types of salmon fishing.

Fiberglass rods are more durable and flexible, making them ideal for beginners or those fishing in rugged conditions.

Composite rods blend graphite and fiberglass, offering a balance of sensitivity, strength, and durability.

Target Species and Fishing Conditions

Larger salmon.

For targeting larger salmon, choose a rod with a strong backbone and the ability to handle heavier lines and lures.

Smaller Salmon

For smaller species or more delicate presentations, a lighter rod with a softer action may be more appropriate.

Price and Value

Budget-friendly options.

If you're new to salmon fishing or on a budget, rods like the Lamiglas X-11 provide excellent performance without a hefty price tag.

Premium Rods

For serious anglers, investing in top-tier equipment, such as the G. Loomis GCX or the Douglas LRS, offers the best in durability, performance, and comfort.

Selecting the right salmon rod is crucial for maximizing your success on the water. Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out, the rods listed above offer a range of features and price points to suit every need. From the versatile FishUSA Flagship models to the premium G. Loomis GCX and Douglas LRS rods, there's a perfect tool for every angler and technique. Consider your fishing style, target species, and preferred conditions when making your choice, and you'll be well-equipped for your next salmon fishing adventure. Happy fishing!

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Premium Gear for Exceptional Anglers

Experience the pinnacle of fly fishing with Sage’s expertly crafted rods, reels, and accessories, designed to elevate angling adventures.

Why We Love Fishing with Sage Gear?

Premium Craftsmanship

Meticulously crafted rods and reels for superior performance and durability.

Advanced Technology

Innovative materials and engineering deliver unmatched precision and power.Duis porta ligula rhoncus euismod pretium tellus.

Ergonomic Design

Comfortable and easy to use, allowing for longer, more enjoyable fishing sessions.

Stylish and Functional

Aesthetic designs that don’t compromise on functionality.

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Sonic Fly Fishing Rod

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SAGE Trout Spey Reel

Arbor XL Fly Fishing Reel

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SPECTRUM Fly Reel

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Sage accessories.

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Sage Fly Fishing Neoprene Reel Case

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Sage Fly Fishing – FOUNDATION Outfit – Fly Rod, Reel & Line Combo

Discover the Ultimate Fly Fishing Experience with Sage Gear

Crafting excellence in fly fishing gear.

Since 1980, Sage Fly Fishing has been at the forefront of innovation and quality in the world of fly fishing. Founded by legendary rod designer Don Green on Bainbridge Island, Washington, Sage set out with a clear mission: to create the finest performance fly rods and reels.

From the beginning, Sage focused on pushing the boundaries of technology and craftsmanship. Each rod and reel is meticulously handcrafted, utilizing the latest advancements in materials and design to ensure unmatched precision, strength, and durability. Sage’s commitment to excellence quickly earned a reputation among professional anglers and enthusiasts alike.

Over the years, Sage has expanded its product line to include a comprehensive range of gear, from freshwater to saltwater fly fishing. Despite this growth, the core values of innovation, performance, and passion for the sport have remained unchanged.

Today, Sage continues to lead the industry, delivering products that enhance every angler’s experience. With a blend of tradition and cutting-edge technology, Sage Fly Fishing stands as a symbol of quality and dedication to the art of fly fishing. Every cast, every catch, and every adventure is a testament to the craftsmanship and spirit that defines Sage.

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Sage rods have transformed my fly fishing experience. The quality and performance are unmatched. Highly recommend!

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Travel Light, Fish Right: Best Travel Fishing Rods For On-The-Go Anglers

Disclosure: Some posts contain affiliate links, which earn us a commission if you make a purchase through them. Positive Fishing © participates in various affiliate networks including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.

Whether planning a week-long fishing trip or hoping to escape and do some fishing on a family vacation, travel fishing rods are essential for any angler. Due to their construction, they pack down to fit in a rucksack so you can easily carry them on a motorbike, bus, or even as a part of your checked baggage on an airplane.

Whether you are a fly, spin, carp, or saltwater angler, all have excellent travel rod choices.

In this article, I will cover the following: 

• What To Look For When Choosing A Travel Fishing Rod
• Travel fly rods
• Travel spinning rods
• Travel carp rods
• Travel sea fishing rods
• Frequently Asked Questions

What To Look For When Choosing A Travel Fishing Rod 

When purchasing a travel rod, you want to make sure you’re paying attention to a few separate essential details! 

Travel Rod Length 

Most anglers searching for travel rods aren’t hopping on an airplane and traveling worldwide to pursue a unique species. Many jump in the car or take public transportation to their favorite location. As a result, you want to make sure the rod you travel with is collapsible. If possible, ensure your rod can collapse down to 36 inches! 

Depending on the rod type, you may be able only to find one that can break down to a length of 40” or 46”. So choose wisely, as you don’t want to sacrifice quality for a smaller length.  

You’ll find that many companies are making their own versions of travel rods that are not quality. They are often affordable, but anglers pay the price when they hit the water. The rods easily break, or they aren’t as advertised. 

Stay with well-known fishing brands that can be trusted and have a warranty. You wouldn’t waste your money on a poor-quality normal rod, so follow that same protocol with your travel rod! 

Best Travel Fly Rods

Thankfully, most fly rods are “travel-ready.” Many break down into four pieces, typically around 36” in length. However, if you need even smaller rods, some good options exist! 

Orvis Clearwater 6 Piece

If you’re familiar with Orvis, you know how high-quality their fly rods are. The Clearwater 6-piece travel model is the option for intermediate anglers. It isn’t overly complicated to fish. The moderate fast action is good for streams, rivers, and lakes. 

You will likely struggle to find a travel fly rod that’s better than this! You have a 4-weight 8’, 5-weight 8’6”, 5-weight 9’, 6-weight 9’, and 8-weight 9’. These weights and lengths are great for trout, bass, steelhead, and salmon fishing. This rod will fit anywhere on a plane or in your car. 

When broken down, the six pieces break down into only 22.5 inches. This is extremely small and can fit into any carry-on or as a personal item! You’ll still have Orvis’ 25-year warranty when you purchase this rod. This is a nice warranty since travel rods get heavy usage, and there is more that can go wrong when there are six total pieces you’re working with. 

Orvis also offers a travel fly combo outfit option, including line and reel. If you aren’t interested in pairing the rig with your own equipment, you can purchase your own reel, and everything will be well-balanced. 

While Orvis isn’t known for bargain basement pricing, you’ll get one of the best travel fly fishing rods on the market for a mid-to-high price range. 

Redington Trailblazer Fly Rod 

The Redington Trailblazer is another travel fly fishing rod that will be up for any challenge that you put to the test. Redington makes both a 3-weight and 5-weight option for anglers. The 7’6” 3-weight is great if you head to backcountry mountain streams or small alpine lakes . The 9’6” 5-weight is good if you’re heading somewhere with bigger fish or more challenging conditions. 

When broken down, the rod tube is only 30”, so you should be able to fit it on a plane on your carry-on or under the backseat of your car. Wherever you use it, it’s going to store away nicely! Many anglers will choose to use this as their backcountry rod. While fly rods aren’t heavy, the Redington Trailblazer is especially light! It’ll fit nicely on your backpack, and you won’t notice it. 

The red and yellow colors look great! It’s a unique design in terms of fly rods. Don’t worry about the quality. Redington’s lifetime warranty protects it so that you can fish this hard. 

In the mid to high-priced price range, you’ll have a similar price to the Clearwater from Orvis. They’re similar rods in terms of quality! Redington is a reputable brand that has continuously flown under the radar. Don’t underestimate the quality of these rods. 

Best Travel Spinning Rods

In terms of travel rods, you will find the most options available come in the form of spinning rods. Companies that don’t even specialize in fishing equipment have found themselves in the travel spinning rod market. It’s those poor, cheap-quality travel rods you should avoid!

My two choices are far from the unknown; Shimano and Fenwick are right at the top of their game regarding fishing rods.

Shimano S.T.C. Mini-Tele Spinning Rod

Shimano has been a reputable fishing company for years. Anglers of all levels have success with these rods! The mini-tele spinning rod is a unique design that is perfect for travel. This rod comes in two pieces. The first piece includes the cork handle and reel seat. The next section of this rod is the telescopic portion. The total extended length ranges from 70 inches to 106 inches! 

Whatever rod you choose, you can choose from eight different weights and lengths to fit whatever type of fishing you’re doing. All of these models have eight line guides regardless of the weight and length of the rod you choose. 

These rods are made with Shimano’s XT60 blank material, a full cork grip, and a Shimano DPS reel seat. You have all the normal guarantees of Shimano packed into the travel rod. 

These rods break down into a case and are easily stored in a backpack or the trunk of your car. When fully broken down, the longest models are only 15 inches long! Take them with you as you bike, hike, or take public transport to a local lake or river. Trout, panfish, and even fish such as small-sized bass and pike are all catchable with this rod. However, large bass and other fish over 5 lbs are not suited for this rod. 

This is my only telescopic choice in all of my rods for travel, and I am not a big fan of telescopic rods due to their usually inferior quality and strength. However, the Shimano STC is the exception – it’s well-constructed and is a top telescopic option for a travel rod.

Fenwick HMG Travel Rod 

The HMG Travel Rod from Fenwick is another affordable and high-quality option for anglers looking to fish while traveling. If you know fishing history, you’ll remember that Fenwick rods were the first to use graphite technology. 

The rod uses Powerlux 100 resin technology, a lightweight graphite blank with stainless steel guides, and a cork handle. The Powerlux technology increases the rod’s strength by over 10 percent compared to previous models. 

Fenwick provides anglers an extra tip in case you snap or break yours. This is a great feature for travel rods. Since they’re used in challenging and tight spaces, accidents can happen. The extra tip gives you peace of mind that you can fish the rod hard without worrying about what could go wrong. 

The rod breaks down into three sections that work well for traveling. When fully broken down, it’s only around 30 inches. When packed in the rod tube, you can fit it easily in your trunk or on the side of your backpack. The most common option for anglers is the 7’6” model. Depending on your needs, this comes in medium light and a medium action. 

Both the Shimano STC Mini-Tele and the Fenwick HMG travel rods are mid-price range options. This means you’re getting a great deal choosing either of them for fishing when traveling! 

Best Carp Fishing Travel Rods

Carp rods are a prized possession for many anglers. With carp being a species easily found worldwide, it’s hard not to travel with your carp rod! You never know when you will have a chance to get away and fish a local pond or river packed with them. 

Buying a carp travel fishing rod is also a great option for stalking carp in the margin areas. Their shorter length enables them to get to the harder-to-access areas, where trees are overhanging, and it’s near impossible to cast with longer rods.

Nash Scope Rod – Full Shrink

Nash is a trusted and popular brand amongst carp anglers. The Full Shrink handle model is one that many anglers could use in various situations. It’s all one piece, but the rod telescopes into itself and packs into a nice and compact design. 

You can choose a 9-foot and 10-foot long rod option with test curves ranging from 3 lbs, 3.25 lbs, and 3.5 lbs. These options are sufficient for almost any carp; I use the 9-foot option combined with a 3.25lb test curve option. 

Many anglers can cast upwards of 150 yards with the 9ft scope. You can fish the margins or larger waters, and the rod will be at home in either place. When fully contracted, the 9-foot models fold down to 44 inches, and the 10-foot models fold down to 50 inches. No, they don’t fold down as small as other travel rods, but the longer sizes ensure high quality. You won’t find these rods breaking after two or three uses.

You can haul in 30-pound carp with no problem with the Nash Scope rod. Also, if you get the chance to target salmon, pike, steelhead, or bass, these will equally work well for those. They’re designed to tackle carp, but they can land most other freshwater species. 

This rod is suitable for any angler. If you’re an experienced angler, you’ll find that you can get more out of this rod than you would think. If you’re new to carp fishing, it is a great first travel option, lasting many years. 

The Nash Scope Rod is an affordable travel rod at a mid-point price range.  

X5 Max Travel Fishing Rod 

The X5 Max Travel rod is one of the market’s most unique fishing rod designs. Within this one rod, you have nine different length combinations that you can use. It can be used as a travel spin casting, bait casting, float fishing, carp fishing, and fly fishing rod. Twelve interchangeable sections work together to create the type of rod you need. 

Once you have determined the right combination of tips, even decent sized carp can be landed with the heavier casting weight setup. 

The four separate tips come with rod casting weights ranging from 10-20g, 15-30g, and 25-50g. It is a remarkable rod with all the different features and pieces included. Most anglers find one method that works for them and stick to it, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can change things to be whatever you need. 

All aspects of this rod can fit in a 17” travel case when broken down. It’ll fit nicely into your backpack and is well protected with the camo color case. For a mid-range priced portable rod, you’re getting an impressive rod that’s up for whatever challenge you need. Anglers often find themselves surprised by how capable this rod is. It’s a jack of all trades that is one of the best and most versatile travel rod options. 

Best Sea Fishing Travel Rods

Travel sea fishing rods can be a point of contention for some anglers. Obviously, sea fishing rods are going to have to be extremely durable . You’re catching generally much larger fish and in a less forgiving environment. Travel saltwater fishing rods must be able to match the power and durability of a standard saltwater rod. Otherwise, you can snap your travel rod at any point.

Fiblink Portable Saltwater Offshore Travel Rod 

The Fiblink Portable Saltwater Offshore Travel Rod breaks down into three pieces and comes in four sizes. You have a 6’ heavy, 7’ medium heavy, 7’ heavy, and 8’ heavy. The heavy models can handle a 30-50 pound test, and the medium-heavy models can handle a 15-30 pound test. 

Fishing Rod Guides & Tip Tops: Why Are They Important?

The Fiblink is built for saltwater use. As a result, you don’t have to worry about saltwater corrosion. A good clean with fresh water will keep this rod in great shape once you’re done. Anglers have hauled in 80-pound sharks with this rod! Give yourself a chance to target some heavy fish and see what you find.  

This rod only breaks into three pieces, so it doesn’t lose quality or power compared to a 4-piece rod. Each piece is either 2 feet or 2.5 feet, depending on the rod size you purchase. While this isn’t the top-of-the-line sea fishing rod, it can hold its own and will last if you take good care of it. Most anglers wouldn’t use it as their primary fishing rod, but it works great for short-day trips to the sea! 

At an affordable low to mid-range pricing, you’ll get a quality rod that can fight the vast majority of saltwater fish you plan to target. 

World Traveller Travel Fishing Rod & Reel

Unlike all the other rods on the list, the World Traveller travel fishing combo comes with both the rod and the reel. This makes it my only travel combo rod and reel on this recommended list. One of the most significant challenges anglers face with travel rods is finding a reel that balances well with the weight. The World Traveller has a decent rod and gives you a properly balanced reel to match. 

The two options available for this rod are medium and heavy. The medium rod is 7’ long and can handle bass, panfish, and smaller pike. The heavy rod is 6’2” and can handle larger fish. 

One of the nice features of this rod and reel is that two additional tips come with the rod. Both are made of fiberglass and are relatively powerful. Also, this rod breaks down into six separate sections, which makes storing it especially easy. When broken down, this rod is only 16 inches long. 

The reel has a decent 5:1:1 ratio. You also receive an extra spool when you make the purchase! The spinning reel is saltwater ready. A quick rinse at the end of the day will prevent corrosion when fishing in saltwater areas. 

The pairing reel that World Traveler provides in this travel combo has an interchangeable handle for left or right-hand retrieve.

World Traveller offers anglers a two-year warranty when purchasing this brand-new rod. This is a great chance to fish this rod hard and see what it can do. You’ll struggle to find a travel rod that’s as high quality and reputable as this. At around mid-ranged pricing, you’re getting a great deal, and it even comes with a 2-year warranty! 

Best Travel Rods Summary 

There are hundreds of travel fishing rods for anglers to purchase. These decisions can be overwhelming! These packable fishing rods are typically not your regular rods, but they still should be up to the challenge of whatever fish you find. 

Again, please don’t buy cheap, inferior travel fishing rods from lesser-known manufacturers.

Travel Fishing Rods – Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between a travel rod and a regular rod.

Generally, travel rods are collapsible and can be stored in smaller storage tubes. This way you can travel easily with them. Regular rods are troublesome to carry around and, in many cases, heavier and prone to damage.

Can I Take A Fishing Rod On A Plane?

Yes, airlines will allow fishing rods to be carried on a plane. If it is oversized (in length) like a normal fishing rod, you must check it separately, which could cost an additional fee. However, with short travel rods, you can easily hand carry or pack them safely into your check-in luggage. 

Check out this Jetstar Airlines notification: Can I bring my fishing rods on the plane? Most airlines will allow fishing rods on the plane.

What Are The TSA Regulations On Fishing Rods?

TSA allows fishing poles and also other tackle for carry-on and checked bags. For the most up-to-date information, check out the official TSA link!

What Is The Best Travel Fishing Rod For Bass?

There is no specific travel rod that you must use for bass fishing. The Shimano STC telescopic has all the features, strength, and versatility needed for a travel bass fishing rod. It can be used for various fishing styles in rivers or lakes, including lure fishing and when using natural baits.

Final Thoughts

Some anglers get concerned about buying a travel fishing rod. The quality is always a question for many anglers. There are always horror stories about hooking into a massive fish, but it breaks off due to one of the sectioned pieces snapping. 

All my recommended travel rod choices above will perform without worrying about them breaking. You never know when the opportunity to fish will come up on a trip, so it’s best to be prepared.

I hope this article was helpful and gave you all the information you need; check out my other posts on fishing rods covering a full range for every type of fishing style.  

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Best Travel Fly Fishing Rods | Buyer’s Guide (2023)

Page Contents

Chucking Bugs On the Go

Obsession knows no bounds, and I am obsessed with catching fish on the fly. If you’re like me, the chance to wet a line in an unfamiliar body of water is not just a challenge, but an opportunity to come into contact with different species of fish than you may normally target. 

To do this effectively, a dependable and functional travel fly rod is a must. Here, I’ll review some travel fly rods so that you can buy with confidence and be ready for those unexpected opportunities to fish at a moment’s notice. 

In this article we’ll cover:

• Best overall travel fly rods
• Best travel fly rod for the money
• Best telescoping fly rod
• Travel bags & accessories
• What to look for in a traveling fly rod?
• And much more!

Let’s dive in!

Best Travel Fly Rods (Overall)

These are our picks for the top performing travel fly rods while on the water and during travel.

1. Orvis Clearwater 6 Piece, 5 wt

The Orvis Clearwater model has consistently proven itself to fly fishing enthusiasts from the east coast to the west coast as an affordable and durable travel fly rod. 

The Orvis name is usually indicative of quality, and the Clearwater six-piece is no exception to the hype. With a $249 price tag, you get a lot of bang for your buck and the Orvis 25-year guarantee.

Many anglers that reviewed the Orvis Clearwater made note of the fact that, although it is a six-piece travel rod, it quickly found its way into everyday use due to its ability to pack small and perform big.

Features/Specs

9’ length six-piece, chrome snake guides, gray rod tube included, orvis 25-year guarantee.

View on Trident Fly Fishing →

The 5 wt is the standard for multi-species fishing, but it also comes in a lighter 4 wt for creeks and blue-lining, and up to an 8 wt for bass and pike. The rod tube that is included is as durable as the rod itself and is a valuable bonus for the price.

Whether you’re stowing the rod in your backpack to bring along while hiking or keeping it in your truck for pond-hopping on the way home from work, the Orvis Clearwater is a well-rounded, dependable fly rod for the money. 

It’s hard to get fly fishermen to agree on some things, but the Orvis Clearwater is an agreed-upon standard when it comes to travel fly rods and is highly recommended.

For more on this setup, see this dedicated Orvis Clearwater review

2. Echo Trip 8 Travel Fly Rod

The Trip takes travel fly rods to the next level. It is an eight-piece rod that packs into an 18” case. There’s no real reason not to take this compact rod with you on your travels. 

The case packs so light, Echo recommends taking it along as a backup wherever you’re fishing. As someone who has experienced the horror of a broken rod tip after a two-mile hike, this is a valid selling point.

Echo’s advancement in ferrule technology means that this eight-piece performs like many four-piece setups.

9’ Length Eight-Piece

18” segments, low friction snake guides, medium-fast action, improved ferrule technology, echo lifetime guarantee.

View on Amazon →

The Medium-Fast action allows the user to throw dries as well as streamers with ease, and I find this particularly useful in a travel rod meant for varying conditions. The dark green finish is elegant and goes well with the chromed snake guides aesthetically. 

Echo honors a very forgiving lifetime return policy, but I must say, the durability of their travel rods may mean you won’t have to use them. With a $279 asking price, it is only slightly more expensive than the Clearwater, and packs smaller. 

Here again, people that use the Trip extensively say that although they purchased the rod as a backup, its ease of use and versatility often means it ends up as a mainstay on fishing trips where more than one rod accompanies the angler. 

It is highly reviewed and definitely worthy of consideration when choosing a travel fly rod.

Increase efficiency with euro-style streamers

3. Douglas Upstream Ultralight Fly Rod

With this series of rods, Douglas has bridged the gap between graphite and classic bamboo . Upstream rods are incomprehensibly lightweight. 

I have never thrown a fly rod this light, and can only imagine the sensitivity and delicate presentation that they provide. 

I am a big fan of pursuing native brook trout in a small stream setting, and these conditions were exactly what the Upstream series was created for. Fishing high mountain streams call for precise placement of small flies , and the Upstream excels at this.

2-4 wt Models

Incredibly light (1.13 oz–1.75 oz), 6’6” two-piece to 8’0” six-piece models, graphite construction emulating traditional cane, brushed aluminum rod tube and sock.

Douglas has used everything that is good about graphite and combined it with the moderate-slow action that a classic bamboo fly rod would have. 

These rods are not for big water! However, regarding their inclusion here as travel fly rods, I can think of no better rod to accompany me up the mountain or to a hidden spring creek. 

Some models of the Upstream break down into six pieces for transportation, and every model, from the 2 to 4 wt, are feather-light and pack small (in a traditional brushed aluminum rod tube).

The Upstream series may be more expensive than the rods previously reviewed here, but this price reflects the uniqueness of the product. 

In a world where bamboo is becoming highly sought after (and EXPENSIVE) these rods stand out as a modern angler’s solution to achieving that classic feel and action.

 Other Fly Rod Related Articles

Best 3wt Fly Rods

Best fly fishing rod & reel combos (top 5 reviewed), top 7 saltwater fly rods | buyer’s guide, the tfo bvk fly rod: a guide’s review, best fly fishing starter kits (top 4) | buyer’s guide, best travel fly rod for the money.

Looking for something inexpensive for your next vacation? Check out this option. This rod packs down small and delivers great fishing performance, at a much more affordable price.

4. Maximum Catch 8 Piece Travel Fly Rod

MaxCatch is a company that I’m sure plenty of anglers on a budget are familiar with. 

They make affordable products meant for heavy use and abuse, and their eight-piece travel rod is a perfect choice for an all purpose rod. 

The action on these rods is fast, so the 5 wt can stand up to throwing some chunkier streamers and indicator rigs. It packs easily into a backpack for on the go use and comes with a cordura tube to store it in while traveling. 

9’ Eight-Piece Construction

Fast action, included 17” cordura tube, ceramic stripping guide, cork handle, affordable price.

Some people that reviewed the MaxCatch said it was a bit stiff, but at this price point, that is hardly a game changer. If you’re looking for something reliable and affordable that still packs light, I would recommend the MaxCatch for your first travel rod, or as a backup companion to the rod you already use.

Best Telescoping Fly Rod

Telescoping rods are more common for spin fishers or Tenkara fishing . However, we found a great telescoping fly rod that even comes with a fly reel and line!

5. REYR Telescoping Fly Rod

REYR has done something special with this telescoping fly rod. When I got into fly fishing, I quickly realized how much trouble it was to try to fish a stream that was covered with overhang and brush. 

It was a nightmare to try to navigate a rod and line into deep holes for trout and then back out to hike to the next pocket of water. 

I was told by fishermen more experienced than I was then, to avoid telescopic rods, and that they were usually cheap and meant to catch the fisherman, not so much the fish. REYR has made the telescoping rod relevant again here. 

19” Collapsed, 9’ Extended 4 wt

Quick setup, no knots, aluminum cnc reel included, internal line feature, neoprene case.

This rod collapses to 19” for travel purposes, which is manageable, but its internally routed line feature is what really makes it stand out. The line runs up through the rod internally and comes out the tip. 

This not only means you can leave a fly attached and ready for use on the rod, but also that you can extend it to the length you need and start casting. There’s also less exposed line to become tangled in branches and brambles. 

The rod does sacrifice distance due to the friction of this internally routed line feature, but you don’t need to cast long distances on small water. 

I still find most telescoping rods to be stiff and fragile, but REYR has put a lot of time and effort into redefining what a telescoping rod can do. It’s definitely worth considering especially if you hike and backpack near mountain streams. 

Best Travel Fly Fishing Bags

It can be challenging to keep all your fishing gear neat and organized while traveling. These two gear bags are perfect for those traveling by air or taking a road trip. 

6. Allen Company Fly Fishing Rod and Gear Carrying Case

Allen Company has created a rugged and dependable travel bag for when you know you’ll be spending some time fishing. 

This bag holds an impressive 4 four-piece rods, meaning you can cover just about any desired method of fly fishing (light dries to bigger streamers and in between) with what you can bring along. 

The bag has a slim profile and packs small for what it can carry.

Fits up to 4 Four-Piece 9.5’ Rods

Eight exterior adjustable dividers, 31.5” long, 9.5” high, padded shock-absorbing construction.

The exterior dividers and zippered pockets can hold a variety of reels and a selection of fly boxes . This bag does not skimp on organizational aides. 

The case is padded and can withstand long distance travel. A few satisfied customers said that the slim profile of the bag enabled them to easily keep it at hand on flights and trains. 

7. Fishpond Teton Rolling Carry-on Bag

Fishpond has created the perfect companion for the frequent flyer and fly fisherman. 

Their Teton Rolling Carry-on bag is a suitcase for your fly gear that can hold everything you’ll need for an extended stay where there’s water. 

This bag was designed for use on planes and fits the size requirements of most airlines. The Teton would work equally well packed into a loaded van.

It is secure and tough and can hold the supplies necessary to keep you fishing longer while traveling. 

Carry-on Size Rolling Luggage with Handle

Compression molded bottom, ventilated mesh on interior pockets, multiple exterior pockets.

With numerous organizational options and enough pockets to keep this bag as decked out as your vest, Fishpond’s commitment to quality and functionality makes this bag a must when transporting high-end rods, reels, and everything in between. 

 Other Gear Related Articles

• Best Fly Tying Desks & Organizers | Buyer’s Guide
• Best Wading Boots On The Market (Top 5)

Best Fishing Pliers | Saltwater, Steel, & Titanium

Best wading pants for fishing | buyer’s guide, best fly fishing reels for the money (complete guide), what makes a travel fly rod.

A travel fly rod is usually a many-ferruled rod that packs smaller and lighter than a two or four-piece rod, for ease of transportation. 

Whether it’s kept in your vehicle for use on your commute to or from work, or packed into a hiking bag to prospect a spring creek, the characteristics of a travel fly rod are usually the same; light construction with all-purpose line weight and length, the ability to pack down to a manageable size, and the durability necessary to withstand the dangers of transportation. 

What will it be used for?

Some things to look for in a travel fly rod are directly related to what it will be used for, and your own definition of “travel.” Many of us won’t be taking our rods with us on an airplane, but some might. 

You may only need your travel rod for fishing on the banks, or for use when you don’t have access to waders or watercraft. 

Durability is a must , and while I respect the anglers that can take a 2 or 3 wt rod into overgrown and complicated areas, I usually opt for a heavier line weight to endure the inevitable snags, brush, and obstacles that come with trailblazing and tough conditions. 

Using your travel rod as a backup should something happen to your pricey primary rod is another option. It only takes one bad event to leave you deep in the water with a broken tip or busted eyelet, and having another rod with you can save an otherwise ruined day. Know what the intended purpose of your travel rod is and buy accordingly. 

Reeling it in

There was a time when a travel rod consisting of more than four ferrules lacked play, and durability and took a hit to performance, but with all the modern advancements in graphite and ferrule technology, I would wager those days are for the most part over. As mentioned above, some of these travel rods perform so well and pack so light, they find their way into a fisherman’s normal rotation of rods. 

A travel rod is worth the investment, even if it just remains in the front seat. Not having to sacrifice much in terms of performance is a plus, and the ability to get an hour of fishing in at a moment’s notice is priceless. Consider one of the options reviewed above to stay ready and keep those fish fly educated!

Related Reading :

• Some of the Wildest Fishing Destinations on Earth
• Strategies When Traveling With Fishing Gear
• Fly Fishing Alaska | Complete Guide, 2020 (interactive map)

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The new atlas graphene layering system.

Mackenzie Fly Fishing is proud to launch this exciting new development in the clothing industry. By incorporating graphene into our new clothing range, we have developed clothing that is not only stylish and comfortable but offers a range of benefits for the wearer.

Read more here:

The Mackenzie brand from the outset has been a market leader in innovation and the adoption of new materials and engineering techniques. There is no better example of this than the new Mackenzie FX1 Graphene. It is the first double-handed salmon rod to use Graphene, a Nobel Prize winning material that has revolutionised carbon-composite engineering.

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Mackenzie Caps

Sale price Price £20.79 Regular price

The Future!

Caught my first DH Salmon last season on the 15" FX1 Graphene rod, so much power with a super fast tip recovery , was a superb fish fighting and casting machine! These rods are the future!

1st Class...

Mackenzie 15' FX1 rod is simply amazing. Fast tip recovery and found the softer I cast, the better and further the line flew. 1st class rod.

FX2 Graphene

• Nobel Prize winning Graphene material

• FX technology

• Dual Construction: Graphene & Aerospace Technology

• Custom made Alps reel seat

• Titanium snake eyes

• Titanium stripper guides

The DTX Development Team

Over 125 years angling experience, 5 world spey casting championships titles and world records broken.

NX1 - Range

 Our new and exciting NX1 range of rods are the next generation from the highly successful and award winning G2 range of Mackenzie DTX rods.  These new 4 piece models incorporate the latest nanotube technology which reduces rod weight and increases overall carbon strength, resulting in improved energy transfer and feel throughout the rod, giving them a real sense of soul. 

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New fly fishing gear: September 2024

by Hatch Magazine - Wednesday, Sep 18th, 2024

Fall is officially upon us, and fly-fishing gear manufacturers are pushing new rods, reels and other goods out to consumers this month. From a handful of new reels — both freshwater and saltwater — to a new high-end trout rod and a surprising entry into the optics market from a traditional rod manufacturer, gear junkies should rejoice.

Here are some of the highlights from in these new September offerings.

Winston Pure 2

In a world where most fly rod manufacturers are touting the latest and greatest is fast-rod tech, it’s refreshing to see a quality, legacy brand offer something a little different. Winston, the Montana-based rodmaker, is launching its upgraded version of its PURE fly rod — aptly and simply named the Winston PURE 2 (pictured at top). This medium-action rod is for true trout anglers, and it comes in weights 2 through 5.

Winston says its new “NanoParticle” materials make the new PURE 2 rods “smooth, delicate and lively,” an impressive combination if accurate. It’s built for a broad range of dry-fly situations, from small creeks to the West’s trophy trout waters. Winston says the slower rods recover well, flex evenly from butt to tip and offer a patented, balanced “Winston feel.” MSRP: $995.

BUY THE WINSTON PURE 2

Bauer SLT saltwater fly reel

More like this.

• New fly fishing gear: January 2023
• New fly fishing gear: December 2023
• New fly fishing gear: August 2023

In the fly fishing discipline where the reel really does matter, Bauer is launching its new SLT reel designed specifically for saltwater fly fishing. Bauer has always produced quality reels using a dependable clutch mechanism in its reels. For the Bauer SLT, though, the company claims to have strengthened the system using carbon fiber and stainless steel drag, all while sealing up the reel in a, you guessed it, “bombproof” package.

For saltwater anglers, having a truly dependable and sealed fly reel is of the utmost importance — saltwater takes its toll on everything, and even the best gear tends to break down in the salt over time. That may be why Bauer put four years into prototyping the new SLT reel, testing it time and again, until it arrived at the product available this month. Bauer claims it has developed the “world’s smoothest, fully impenetrable dual-sealed drag” fly reel. Time will be the ultimate judge, but the company’s confidence in the product is encouraging. MSRP: $895 to $1,095.

BUY THE BAUER SLT

Winston Polarized sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses? From a rod-maker? Yup. Winston is diving into the optics game with its new line of fly-fishing-focused Winston sunglasses . Featuring eight models in three styles, the reputable, longtime fly-rod manufacturer now offers a significant line of polarized eyewear. The glasses, Winston tells us, are designed for everyday outdoor use and offer premium polarized lenses for top-notch clarity and stylish, appealing frames. Frames come in the more traditional “Montana” collection, which is meant to be an all-conditions frame; the “Classic” collection — designed more for everyday outdoor use; and the LVF frames, which offer more coverage and are clearly designed for fly fishing. The lenses, constructed from nylon, come in four colors — green, amber, clear/amber and champagne. The new frames from Winston offer undeniably classic styles (save for the LVF) and a refined aesthetic. Time on the water will tell whether these new entries into the sunglass race — which are light on available specifications, don’t leverage selective light-blocking tech found in popular competitors (unless they do so without bothering to mention it) and aren’t initially available in glass — are serious fishing tools or just seriously nice-looking sunglasses. MSRP: $175-$225.

BUY WINSTON SUNGLASSES

Redington Ace fly reels

Technically released in late August, the new Redington Ace, conceived by Redington reel designer Joseph Conrad, seeks to “maximize rigidity and durability” and is inspired by one of humankind’s most innovative inventions — the bridge. The Reel’s new Lattice Structure — an “x pattern” that’s repeated throughout the reel’s construction — the new reel does, indeed, resemble that engineering marvel that’s helped span canyons for centuries. The large-arbor reel picks up line quickly and that lattice structure allows fly line to dry quickly. It also features a line guard on the drag knob to prevent snagging and a wide palming rim. Redington claims to have improved on its drag system and overall torque to lengthen the Ace’s lifespan. MSRP: $239-$269.

BUY THE REDINGTON ACE

Hardy 1921 Wide Spool Perfect fly reel

The venerable English fly-fishing company is launching three new reels, the first of which is an update on one of its classic products — the Hardy 1921 Wide Spool Perfect fly reel . “Enhanced with a nod to the past,” the updated Perfect 1921 reel includes the familiar Hardy check system that’s been refined to allow for smoother performance. The upgraded version includes a revolving line guard — clearly a nod to the reel’s storied history and the nostalgia many anglers associate with the venerable brand. The reel features a two-toned anodized finish that also conjures up images of old-school angling while also complimenting the durability of the wide-spool reel that’s otherwise constructed of premium bar-stock aluminum. The new Perfect 1921 comes in four sizes for various line weights and it’s available in both left- and right-hand retrieve. MSRP: $795 to $895.

BUY THE HARDY 1921 WS PERFECT

Hardy Resonate fly reel

Hardy is launching its new Resonate freshwater fly reel this month, proclaiming it to be the company’s “finest lightweight performance reel yet.” The new Resonate is a large-arbor reel crafted from bar-stock aluminum for weight control. The reel includes Hardy’s click-check system that uses all-metal load-bearing components. The intent, according to the company, is to provide a durable freshwater reel ideal for everything from trout to bass. A nice feature is the enclosed line guard frame designed to prevent leader, tippet or thin fly line from slipping through the edges of the reel — a common challenge for large-arbor reel makers. And, of course, the Resonate’s click-check system offers that satisfying Hardy click when line is pulled from the reel. The Resonate is available in three sizes to cover line weights 1 through 5. MSRP: $330.

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Hardy Averon Euro Nymph fly reel

As the Euro-nymphing technique continues to become more mainstream in North America, Hardy is responding by offering a new fly reel specifically designed for the technique. Its new Averon Euro Nymph fly reel is billed as a “state of the art” fly reel made for Euro nymphers — it features a shallow and narrow profile large-arbor spool made for holding longer, thinner lines and leaders for high-stick enthusiasts. Its full-cage, tightly bound design virtually eliminates line snagging and the tendency of lighter lines to slip between the reel and the reel frame — a common problem Euro nymphers encounter with more conventional fly reels. The narrower spool and the large arbor design, Hardy says, strike a balance between the ability to retrieve line quickly and store lots of wispy-thin running line that high-stick nymphing requires. The reel features a multi-pad, disc-drag system and offers a precise two-and-a-half turn drag adjuster for precise drag settings. MSRP: $395-$475.

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