FS Digest

A long time fisherman using spinning rods and bait casters. Getting ready to retire in a few months and want to start fly fishing some. I have a cheap 3 wt combo from Cabela's in a Three Forks rod and a Prestige reel that I picked up in 2008 and never really used. I want to get new line for the combo just to get me started. Decent line but nothing too expensive for this combo. From what I've read, I'm currently looking at Orvis Clearwater wf 3wt @ $49 or RIO Mainstream wf 3wt @ $38. Any advice on these 2 or another option in that price range?

If I enjoy it, I plan to upgrade to a $200-300 rod and better reel probably in a 5 wt. Is there a chance that this combo is so low end that it might be a bad experience? I'd say that most of my spinning rod or bait casting combos are in the $300+ range, so I know good equipment can make for a better experience.

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by wskerber

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

wskerber: I must disagree. You can have great fun with a cane pole and bobber for a float. Yes, you can go and spend even bigger bucks, but that won't necessarily make for a better experience, it might for the dealer!

Spend more time fishing, be inquisitive about what others are using and what works for them. Now, realize I know absolutely nothing of fly rods and reels. So, if you are trying to impress others, I cannot help you. Just Sayin..RJS

Salesrep Loc: Maryland

A fly line is a fly line, just get the one that you can afford.
Go have fun and just make sure it is a 3wt or nothing more than a 4wt. line that you purchase....I am sure you are talking about a floating line.
Salesrep

Salesrep Loc: Maryland

A fly line is a fly line, just get the one that you can afford.
Go have fun and just make sure it is a 3wt or nothing more than a 4wt. line that you purchase....I am sure you are talking about a floating line.
Salesrep

MSHohman Loc: Nebraska

Last time I’ve talked to Orvis the purposely add extra to a weight forward line so a 3 wt go with a 3 wt line.
Next rod all depends on your target fish. My all purpose rod is a 6 wt. it can handle pretty much anything. If I go after pike then I go up to 8 or 9 wt rods. Bigger flys, dealing with more wind you need that extra punch these rods will deliver.

Captain Lahti Loc: Kennewick, WA

Your #3 is a good rod for casting small flys and if it’s around 9 feet or more it makes a good rod for Euro nymphing which you should investigate as a very effective way to fish with weighted nymphs. As to lines, Cartland Air Cell can be had for less than $30 from Amazon right now. They are good lines. And don’t break the wallet. I’m sure the reel you have is matched to the rod and the only other thing would be a spare spool to use for a sinking line or to set up for euro nymphing which you will find really doesn’t depend on the fly line but on a very long leader set up. But sinking lines aren’t really needed for most wet fly applications. Really only if you want to fish deep water which isn’t necessary for most modest sized fishing like trou, bass, etc.