First Fly Rod

[chrishogs]

Hello all,

Sorry for being the 1 millionth person to post about a first time rod they are looking for, but I need some help. I have been looking around and I think I have found something that I like, but looking for all of your opinions. I live in NJ and looking for a rod to mostly fish on Ken Lockwood Gorge, but also all around Central NJ. I have attached a photo of the cart with what I am currently looking at. Obviously I will need some other gear, was wondering what you guys consider a good starter kit for flies. Thanks in advance for any and all help.

 

[hatchman]

That's a nice set up for where you'll be fishing. You might want to go up one size to a 5 wt. .I say this because once the FlyFishing bug kicks in ,and it will, it won't be long before you'll be venturing up to the upper Delaware
and a 5wt is more suitable there and will be fine for where your planning to start. I started with a Orvis green mountain 6wt starter kit back in 1986 , still have it (along with a bunch more) just changed the reel seat and put a nicer reel on it. The set up your looking at is way nicer and will suit you for a long time.As far as a fly tying kit just buy a cheap starter kit to see if you like it, if you do there's many shops to buy good equipment from. I started with a cheap kit,liked it and bought a regal vise and better tools .

 

[Pete]

For a first rod, which may be your only rod for a while, I agree with hatchman. A five weight will make a much better general purpose rod for eastern trout.

Compared to the 1950s & 60s, when I started, if you go to a reputable shop, it's pretty hard to buy a "bad" rod these days, but it is possible to get one that doesn't fit your "style".

IMHO: Go to a tackle shop that will let you "try before you buy". A few minutes in a parking lot may save you a lot of grief later. Don't just try to see how far you can cast, see how it behaves on short and intermediate "real life" distances as well.

 

[Rusty Spinner]

Your local fly shop will often toss in that expensive fly line if you buy the rod and reel from them, something you won't get off the internet. And you will get local advice on which flies to use and when, what gear is best for NJ waters and other waters, etc. We have several good fly shops in NJ.

 

[lightenup]

Your local fly shop will often toss in that expensive fly line if you buy the rod and reel from them, something you won't get off the internet. And you will get local advice on which flies to use and when, what gear is best for NJ waters and other waters, etc. We have several good fly shops in NJ.

I agree, support your local fly shop.....and you can try it out before you purchase!
I use a five, but, I wish I had a four weight!