10-24-2008, 03:23 PM
[quote Brook]
Now, to get the fight with flygodess out of the way: You're right, it's not the best choice for steelies. But a long 5/6 weight's problem would be with the casting, not with the fighting. Compared to the noodle rods of the Midwest, which use #2 and #4 class-test lines, a #6 weight flyrod is heavy tackle. It's a matter of technique, is all.
I wouldn't want to use one on the brawling steelhead streams of the PNW. Fighting the wind and currents and trying for distance casts. But I don't think I'd feel particularly handicapped through most of the Midwest and East.
But, if I had to make a choice for a single outfit for steelies it would be a nine or ten foot #9 weight loaded with a shooting head system. That would work with steelies and salmon anywhere, is ok for flatwater fishing bigger fish (i.e., musky, stripers), and could serve as an introductory outfit in the salt.
A couple of pieces of advice about equipment that might serve.
1. It's always better for a novice to buy a kit rather than individual components. A kit assures that the rod/reel/line are balanced. They're usually a better buy than assembling you own equipment. Etc. My reccomendation is that you decide the size outfit you want, and, if a kit is available, go that route.
2. Buying on-line can get you some bargains, no question. But do you really want to purchase equipment you haven't handled? A description that reads "#6 weight rod, 7 feet 2 inches" can fit a lot of designs. The tapers, physical weight, and action can be what you want. Or it can be something 180 degrees away. Although it's inconvenient, I'd make the effort to visit the fly shop further away, both to handle the equipment and get their advice.[/quote]
No fight here. You are basically saying the same thing I did.
There are some fast action 6 weights out there however that could do a very nice job on steelies.
Try casting a 9' 6 weight BIIx. It could and can do it all and weighs nothing.
Although I don't fish for steelies often, I do have a BIIx in an 8 weight (that feels like a 5 wt) Plus I think WULFF was the one using a short 6 weight Bamboo on HUGE steelhead. The fight is in the butt.
Flies for steelhead are really no different than trout other than color.
I will agree, to feel, smell, taste if need be, any outfit before buying. Sure as a newbie you will have no idea what to look for.
At the store, I would take three different action rods out for customers to cast. What their style, then find a flex that will compliment there casting.
Taking casting classes does and will help in that you do get to cast several different rods and they teach you how and what to look for.
And a combo is a way to start.
[signature]
Now, to get the fight with flygodess out of the way: You're right, it's not the best choice for steelies. But a long 5/6 weight's problem would be with the casting, not with the fighting. Compared to the noodle rods of the Midwest, which use #2 and #4 class-test lines, a #6 weight flyrod is heavy tackle. It's a matter of technique, is all.
I wouldn't want to use one on the brawling steelhead streams of the PNW. Fighting the wind and currents and trying for distance casts. But I don't think I'd feel particularly handicapped through most of the Midwest and East.
But, if I had to make a choice for a single outfit for steelies it would be a nine or ten foot #9 weight loaded with a shooting head system. That would work with steelies and salmon anywhere, is ok for flatwater fishing bigger fish (i.e., musky, stripers), and could serve as an introductory outfit in the salt.
A couple of pieces of advice about equipment that might serve.
1. It's always better for a novice to buy a kit rather than individual components. A kit assures that the rod/reel/line are balanced. They're usually a better buy than assembling you own equipment. Etc. My reccomendation is that you decide the size outfit you want, and, if a kit is available, go that route.
2. Buying on-line can get you some bargains, no question. But do you really want to purchase equipment you haven't handled? A description that reads "#6 weight rod, 7 feet 2 inches" can fit a lot of designs. The tapers, physical weight, and action can be what you want. Or it can be something 180 degrees away. Although it's inconvenient, I'd make the effort to visit the fly shop further away, both to handle the equipment and get their advice.[/quote]
No fight here. You are basically saying the same thing I did.
There are some fast action 6 weights out there however that could do a very nice job on steelies.
Try casting a 9' 6 weight BIIx. It could and can do it all and weighs nothing.
Although I don't fish for steelies often, I do have a BIIx in an 8 weight (that feels like a 5 wt) Plus I think WULFF was the one using a short 6 weight Bamboo on HUGE steelhead. The fight is in the butt.
Flies for steelhead are really no different than trout other than color.
I will agree, to feel, smell, taste if need be, any outfit before buying. Sure as a newbie you will have no idea what to look for.
At the store, I would take three different action rods out for customers to cast. What their style, then find a flex that will compliment there casting.
Taking casting classes does and will help in that you do get to cast several different rods and they teach you how and what to look for.
And a combo is a way to start.
[signature]