Fly fishing gear advice

murraybiscuit

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Oct 10, 2008
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Dubai
Anybody round these parts fly fish?
Trout specifically...
I've got an ancient rod and want to upgrade but I'm not really an expert and don't want to spend a lot - I'm really only aiming to go a few times a year.
My reel's still fine, so where do I start?
 
Where do you plan on fishing? Dams or rivers?

I'd suggest a 5 weight rod which is a nice multi purpose rod for trout and the occasional bass. Go for a medium action rod which is easier to learn with.

Keep in mind that with fly fishing you need to match your rod reel and line for the best results so you may need to replace all three.

As for line you want a weight forward taper. This is good for the beginner as it allows easier distance and casting. Floating lines are also considered good for beginners but obviously if you prefer deep water nymphing go for a sinking line.

Unfortunately it has been years since I bought flyfishing equipment so I can't give brand/model recommendations. Go to a proper flyfishing/fishing shop and speak to their experts with what I have posted in mind. Don't expect good advice from Sportsmans Warehouse.
 
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probably dullstroom or underberg.
i can cast fine, no problems there - i've been fishing for a while.
but i've never actually bought my own kit, mostly been given or borrowed.
i guess i may need to get a new reel etc. darn.
anybody know a good outlet that sells a decent range of affordable gear?
 
Sometimes I think there is a clued up dude on this (IT) forum for every possible topic regardless of how obscure. Props BrendanD.
 
Best advice I can give is go to Mia's in Woodmead, ask for a bit of advice from Mohammed, and then see how each of the rods in that category "feels" to you.
... does the handle fit your hand, how's the balance of the rod , what do you think of the looks (everyone wants sweet looking gear ... and hey, I know okes who go so far as to want their rod to match their clothing), does the rod suit your reel?
5 wt is a good all round rod, but might take a bit of strain if you do decide to pull some big bass. If you might then think about a 7wt .

I've got to confess that I've had as much of a good time fishing with my old "cheapie" gear as I have with the shiny new expensive stuff. Unless something breaks there's no way I'm going to "upgrade" in a hurry again
 
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This is pretty much something that boils down to personal preference. I prefer tip-flex/fast action rods.

My favourite setup was a Stealth fast action rod paired with a 3M reel. Unfortunately for me I left it on the bank one day to go fetch a beer from the chalet about 20m away and when I go back it was gone, would like to know the size of the fish that took it.
http://www.stealth.co.za/
 
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