FS Digest

I already upgraded from my do-it-all standard 9' 5wt medium-fast action for a slightly better 5wt fast action rod for streamers and heavy nymph rigs. I've been thinking of getting my first dry fly specific 4wt rod (probably the Redington Classic Trout). I've noticed people tend to prefer slightly shorter rods for these, but I'm not sure what (other than being in extremely cramped quarters/tiny mountain brook) should factor into whether I should get a 8', 8'6", or 9'. Any insights appreciated.

--
by kng-harvest2622

fishyaker Loc: NW Michigan (Lower Peninsula)

About the only time I prefer a "shorter" fly rod when casting any type of fly at all is when I am working in tight quarters, where a long rod may get caught up too much in nearby brush, etc.

While a 5 weight line may seem "big" for dry flies...it really depends on what size flies you plan to cast. If you are flicking tiny, mircoscopic #22's, then use a long light leader. At the other end of the spectrum, you may be casting giant sized dry flies the size of a luna moth (bass bugs & giant #2 sized mayflies), and then you will appreciate the 5 weight and long rod for the power needed to propel a variety of dry flies for numerous species.

When you have plenty of room for casting, a long rod in any application is a wise choice (lakes, ponds or streams). The extra rod length will add distance to your casts in almost any circumstance. This can be especially true of roll casting in tight quarters while the space ahead is wide open. Once the "working" segment of your fly line is out of the rod tip it is all about physics, and a longer rod will be more efficient than a short one. You can still be delicate and accurate with the presentation when using a longer rod.

So...I would ponder your usual waters...and not let a short rod dominate your thinking unless you simply want a different "tool" in your kit.

A typical size progression of "dry flies"...for any fish species that enjoys eating bugs!


Since the luna moth has been mentioned in the text, why not include a snapshot!


You might even be imitating a damsel fly with your rigging, so a longer rod will help shoot a feathery imitation of these guys out to your quarry as well!

EdwardL Loc: Tenino Wa.

Damn that was good I was going to say something but you had it covered better than i could have done it
Thank you for your presentation 👏👍😀

fishyaker Loc: NW Michigan (Lower Peninsula)

Thanks Edward. It was a generic question but fun to reply to! I am looking forward to Springtime when we lose the snow and ice in Northern Michigan so that fly casting is back in the mix!

Just spent a few hours jigging for walleye and perch thru an 8 inch hole in the ice. No bites and froze my butt off after my propane ran out for the heater inside the shanty!

Closing this comment with a "night catch" from a previous Summer's outing after dark....

21" brown trout on a large Michigan mayfly imitation...fishing dry. 9 foot 5 weight rod.

EdwardL Loc: Tenino Wa.

That looks nice no ice or snow here up in mountains there is I caught one like that the
Other day but smaller