Fly Rods
Guideline 4 Piece ULS 2.0 Switch Rod - 11ft
Available in #7, #8 models
Guideline 4 Piece ULS 2.0 Switch Rod - 11ft. The Ultra Light Scandi series is a versatile powerhouse, excelling in tasks from streamer casting and Trout Spey to swinging flies for larger migrating species like Atlantic salmon and Steelhead across various rivers and streams.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 9ft
Elevation 9ft #4-5-6: The 4 and 5 wt are typical all-round trout rods for dries, nymphs and lighter streamers. The 6wt is the choice for bigger flies, bigger fish and more windy conditions. Elevation 9ft #7-8-9: Typical rods for the heavier fishing after migratory trout, pike, salmon, seatrout and bonefish. These rods suit rivers, lakes, coastal and flats fishing where big fish and demeaning conditions are common. Unique balance and wt for rods in this category.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 9ft. The Elevation series is a super light and smooth medium fast action range of rods. Designed for anglers at all levels. Utilising sustainable production and eco friendly components.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 9ft 9in
Available in #6, #7, #8 Elevation 9'9ft #6-7-8: Rods made for both lake and river fishing after trout, seatrout and salmon. The new length of 9'9ft is the ultimate compromise between 9'6 and 10ft. It gives you the power of the 9'6ft and the reach/distance of the 10ft.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 9ft 9in. The Elevation series is a super light and smooth medium fast action range of rods. Designed for anglers at all levels. Utilising sustainable production and eco friendly components.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 10ft
Available in #6, #7 models. Elevation Rods utilises the very latest in material and pattern technology, as well as featuring several more environmentally friendly components, these rods are revolutionary.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 10ft. Elevation Rods utilises the very latest in material and pattern technology, as well as featuring several more environmentally friendly components, these rods are revolutionary. We have now started the journey towards more sustainable products at Guideline and this Rod series will show the way for future rod production. We have worked hard and into the details to do whatever is possible to make these rods the best choice for those anglers who care about
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Double Handed Fly Rod - 12ft - #7/8
Elevation 12' #7/8 and 13' #8/9: Possibly the lightest rods ever produced in their respective line weight and length. Fast action with a sensitive and responsive tip are make these rods a super option for small to medium sized salmon/seatrout rivers. They work superb with all types of Scandi style casts and Shooting Heads, no matter if you use a Multi Tip or a full sinking version.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 12ft - #7/8. The Elevation series is a super light and smooth medium fast action range of rods. Designed for anglers at all levels. Utilising sustainable production and eco friendly components.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Double Handed Fly Rod - 14ft - #9/10
Elevation 14' #9/10 and 15' #10/11: Powerful, strong rods that will manage both Skagit type Heads and all kinds of Multi Density sinking heads with ease. The tip sections on these rods are have more power than the two shorter and lighter rods above. They are designed this way to manage larger flies, more wind and the heavier types of lines often used with these line weights. Incredibly light and well balanced.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 14ft - #9/10. The Elevation series is a super light and smooth medium fast action range of rods. Designed for anglers at all levels. Utilising sustainable production and eco friendly components.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Double Handed Fly Rod - 15ft - #10/11
Elevation 14' #9/10 and 15' #10/11: Powerful, strong rods that will manage both Skagit type Heads and all kinds of Multi Density sinking heads with ease. The tip sections on these rods are have more power than the two shorter and lighter rods above. They are designed this way to manage larger flies, more wind and the heavier types of lines often used with these line weights. Incredibly light and well balanced.
Guideline 4 Piece Elevation Fly Rod - 15ft - #10/11. The Elevation series is a super light and smooth medium fast action range of rods. Designed for anglers at all levels. Utilising sustainable production and eco friendly components.
Guideline Kaitum Trout Fly Fishing Kit - 9ft
Available in #5, #6 - These kits are assembled and ready to be used straight out of the rod case. Just add a fly of your choice and attach it to the leader and start fishing. The reel is fitted with a standard weight forward 5Wt or 6WT line
Guideline Kaitum Trout Fly Fishing Kit - 9ft. Guideline flyfishing kits have been updated with a totally new range of rods called Kaitum, Epik and Laxá. They whole series have new actions, new look and improved performance across the board.
Guideline Laxa Sea Trout Fly Fishing Kit - 12ft - #7/8
These kits are assembled and ready to be used straight out of the rod case. Just add a fly of your choice and attach it to the leader and start fishing.
Guideline Laxa Sea Trout Fly Fishing Kit - 12ft - #7/8. Guideline flyfishing kits have been updated with a totally new range of rods called Kaitum, Epik and Laxá. They whole series have new actions, new look and improved performance across the board.
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Coastal Single Hand Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #7, #8, #9 #10, #11, #12 models. The two heavier #10 & #12 models in the Coastal Series lend themselves extremely well to either Sea fishing for Halibut, Pollack and Tuna, or for Tropical fishing targeting, Permit, Jacks, Tarpon and other Gamefish that roam in warmer waters.
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Coastal Single Hand Fly Rod - 9ft. The two heavier models in the Coastal Series lend themselves extremely well to either Sea fishing for Halibut, Pollack and Tuna, or for Tropical fishing targeting, Permit, Jacks, Tarpon and other Gamefish that roam in warmer waters. These rods are strong, yet very light and are built to have enough power to fight big fish efficiently from the bottom part of the rod, while maintaining a good casting action through a more tolerant and
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Chrome Fly Rod - 9ft 9in
Available in #6, #7 #8 models
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Chrome Fly Rod - 9ft 9in. LPX Chrome fly rods are designed and built with a brand-new Guideline rod action. They have a ¾ deep load and power that kicks in earlier in the cast without sacrificing the speed in the rods. They have a lightness, stability and responsiveness that connect you with the cast in a totally new way. LPX Chrome single hand rods are powerful and designed for river fishing after migratory trout, salmon, seatrout and steelhead. A premium fly rod stacked f
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Nymph Fly Rod - 10ft 2in
Available in #3, #4 models
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Nymph Fly Rod - 10ft 2in. Guideline LPX Nymph is packed with high-end features and components that will satisfy the most demanding euro-nymphing anglers. Thanks to our C.A.P M4.0 advanced blank construction technology, these rods are incredibly light for their length (78g for a 10'8 #3) and have an action that takes nymph rods to the next level. The feeling is superbly sensitive, making it possible to detect even the most subtle of takes. The tip is very sensitive with grad
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Nymph Fly Rod - 10ft 8in
Available in #2, #3 models
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Nymph Fly Rod - 10ft 8in - #3. Guideline LPX Nymph is packed with high-end features and components that will satisfy the most demanding euro-nymphing anglers. Thanks to our C.A.P M4.0 advanced blank construction technology, these rods are incredibly light for their length (78g for a 10'8 #3) and have an action that takes nymph rods to the next level. The feeling is superbly sensitive, making it possible to detect even the most subtle of takes. The tip is very sensitive with
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Tactical Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7 models - TROUT & SALMON Recommends May 2023 - 9ft 9in 4wt 'An excellent rod for dry-fly and conventional nymphing, it stood out from the crowd and got the nod from both testers. Effortless loops with excellent feedback'
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Tactical Fly Rod - 9ft. Guideline LPX Tactical Single Hand fly rods has a medium/fast flex action with well-balanced power, and the delicacy needed for stealthy presentations plus effective fish-fighting capabilities.
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Tactical Fly Rod - 9ft 9in
Available in #2, #3, #4, #5 models
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Tactical Fly Rod - 9ft 9in. Guideline LPX Tactical Single Hand fly rods has a medium/fast flex action with well-balanced power, and the delicacy needed for stealthy presentations plus effective fish-fighting capabilities.
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Predator Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #5, #6, #7, #8, #9 models
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Predator Fly Rod - 9ft. Guideline LPX Predator single hand fly rods is a speciality rod series for large predatory fish with a well-balanced power to be a superb casting rod that doesn’t fatigue the angler during long hours. The action is fast but with a flex and curve that lets you cast and fish big flies with ease. They feature a high quality cork grip with extra length and a reinforced foam front for extra durability, same as on our Coastal rods. The whole rod speaks rug
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Tactical Fly Rod - 10ft
Available in #6, #7 models
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Tactical Fly Rod - 10ft. Guideline LPX Tactical Single Hand fly rods has a medium/fast flex action with well-balanced power, and the delicacy needed for stealthy presentations plus effective fish-fighting capabilities.
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Chrome Double Hand Fly Rod - 12ft 3in - #6/7. A truly light and small double hander. Designed to be use in small to medium sized rivers when gentle presentations after spooky fish is essential. Yet powerful enough to handle both larger fish and flies, as well as various types of lines and casts.
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Chrome Double Handed Fly Rod - 12ft 6in - #7/8. Great for small to medium sized rivers like in Iceland. Ultra-light rod with superb stability and response that will keep you going for hours with ease.
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Chrome Double Hand Fly Rod - 12ft 9in - #8/9. This rod works in a wide variety of rivers from small to medium sized. Perfect for those summer days with medium to low water fishing. A rod that truly connects you with the cast in a totally new way. One of our favourites!
Guideline 4 Piece LPX Chrome Double Handed Fly Rod - 15ft 9in - #10/11. THE big gun. Bring me hell or high water - this is not a rod for beginners! Designed to stand the toughest conditions chasing salmon or steelhead in the biggest rivers on the planet.
Guideline 4 Piece NT11 Lake & Anadrome Fly Rod - 10ft
Available in #6, #7, #8 models
Guideline 4 Piece NT11 Lake & Anadrome Fly Rod - 10ft. NT11 fly rods are the result of taking advantage of the very latest and most sophisticated SOA (State of Art) graphite materials used in the aerospace industry today. When applied to and used in flyrods, some remarkable benefits are achieved. The most evident effect being an amazing recovery power and crispness in the blanks, created by combining the incredible armoring and strength increasing effects of T1100G graphite with layers of the hi
Guideline 4 Piece NT11 Trout Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #4, #5, #6 models
Guideline 4 Piece NT11 Trout Fly Rod - 9ft. NT11 fly rods are the result of taking advantage of the very latest and most sophisticated SOA (State of Art) graphite materials used in the aerospace industry today. When applied to and used in flyrods, some remarkable benefits are achieved. The most evident effect being an amazing recovery power and crispness in the blanks, created by combining the incredible armoring and strength increasing effects of T1100G graphite with layers of the highest modul
Guideline 6 Piece NT11 Salmon Double Hand Fly Rod - 12ft 9in
Available in #7/8, #8/9 models
Guideline 6 Piece NT11 Salmon Double Hand Fly Rod - 12ft 9in. NT11 fly rods are the result of taking advantage of the very latest and most sophisticated SOA (State of Art) graphite materials used in the aerospace industry today. When applied to and used in flyrods, some remarkable benefits are achieved. The most evident effect being an amazing recovery power and crispness in the blanks, created by combining the incredible armoring and strength increasing effects of T1100G graphite with layers of
Guideline 6 Piece NT11 Salmon Double Hand Fly Rod - 13ft 9in
Available in #8/9, #9/10 models
Guideline 6 Piece NT11 Salmon Double Hand Fly Rod - 13ft 9in. NT11 fly rods are the result of taking advantage of the very latest and most sophisticated SOA (State of Art) graphite materials used in the aerospace industry today. When applied to and used in flyrods, some remarkable benefits are achieved. The most evident effect being an amazing recovery power and crispness in the blanks, created by combining the incredible armoring and strength increasing effects of T1100G graphite with layers of
Guideline 6 Piece NT11 Salmon Double Hand Fly Rod - 14ft 9in
Available in #9/10, #10/11 models
Guideline 6 Piece NT11 Salmon Double Hand Fly Rod - 14ft 9in. NT11 fly rods are the result of taking advantage of the very latest and most sophisticated SOA (State of Art) graphite materials used in the aerospace industry today. When applied to and used in flyrods, some remarkable benefits are achieved. The most evident effect being an amazing recovery power and crispness in the blanks, created by combining the incredible armoring and strength increasing effects of T1100G graphite with layers of
Guideline 4 Piece NT11 Salmon Double Hand Fly Rod - 15ft 9in - #10/11. NT11 fly rods are the result of taking advantage of the very latest and most sophisticated SOA (State of Art) graphite materials used in the aerospace industry today. When applied to and used in flyrods, some remarkable benefits are achieved. The most evident effect being an amazing recovery power and crispness in the blanks, created by combining the incredible armoring and strength increasing effects of T1100G graphite with
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Light Trout Outfit - 9ft #5 Fly Rod, Black NOVA fly reel, a floating WF fly line, backing, and a leader.
A classic setup for trout, rainbow trout, and grayling. This kit excels in dry fly fishing, presentations, and light streamers, making it the perfect choice for this style of fishing.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Outfit - 9ft #5. Fly fishing for species like trout, grayling, char, and rainbow trout is a beautiful pursuit that requires a well-balanced rod, reel, and line. We have developed two different kits to cover most situations a trout angler will encounter, whether fishing at a local river or on a trip abroad. Embrace trout rods come with a black NOVA 46 fly reel, a floating WF fly line, backing, and a leader.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Saltwater / Predator Outfit - 9ft #7 Fly Rod, Black NOVA fly reel, a floating WF fly line, backing, and a leader.
If your main focus is coastal fishing or casting larger streamers, this is the ideal choice. The rod and line offer more power to handle large flies and strong winds. This setup is perfect for targeting big trout, sea trout, and even light salmon and predator fishing.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Outfit - 9ft #7. Fly fishing for species like trout, grayling, char, and rainbow trout is a beautiful pursuit that requires a well-balanced rod, reel, and line. We have developed two different kits to cover most situations a trout angler will encounter, whether fishing at a local river or on a trip abroad. Embrace trout rods come with a black NOVA 46 fly reel, a floating WF fly line, backing, and a leader.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Saltwater / Predator Outfit - 9ft #9 Fly Rod, Black NOVA fly reel, floating WF fly line, backing, and a leader.
Fishing for larger predatory fish has become increasingly popular, and with this setup, you’re ready to take on big fish. Primarily designed for pike, it also works well for carp and saltwater species.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Outfit - 9ft #9. Fly fishing for species like trout, grayling, char, and rainbow trout is a beautiful pursuit that requires a well-balanced rod, reel, and line. We have developed two different kits to cover most situations a trout angler will encounter, whether fishing at a local river or on a trip abroad. Embrace trout rods come with a black NOVA 46 fly reel, a floating WF fly line, backing, and a leader.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Double Handed Salmon Outfit - 12ft #7/8 Fly Rod, Black NOVA fly reel bundle.
Includes mono shooting line, floating multi-tip body, and intermediate tip. A light double-hand rod that’s great for slightly larger waters, offering excellent control for steelhead and salmon.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Outfit - 12ft #7/8. Whether you’re targeting salmon, steelhead, or large migratory trout, these setups are perfect companions for the chase. The Embrace Switch includes a WF MultiTip line and intermediate tip, while the double-hand rods come with a mono shooting line, floating multi-tip body, and intermediate tip. These versatile setups let you add tips of different densities and lengths to suit changing conditions.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Double Handed Salmon Outfit - 14ft #9/10 Fly Rod, Black NOVA fly reel Bundle. .
Includes a mono shooting line, floating multi-tip body, and intermediate tip. Perfect for larger rivers and early-season fishing, this 14’ rod covers big waters while remaining comfortable for all-day use. Includes a multi-tip line with optional additional tips.
Guideline Embrace Fly Fishing Outfit - 14ft #9/10. Whether you’re targeting salmon, steelhead, or large migratory trout, these setups are perfect companions for the chase. The Embrace Switch includes a WF MultiTip line and intermediate tip, while the double-hand rods come with a mono shooting line, floating multi-tip body, and intermediate tip. These versatile setups let you add tips of different densities and lengths to suit changing conditions.
Primal 4 Piece Conquest Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #5, #6, #8 models
Primal 4 Piece Conquest Fly Rod - 9ft. These rods have everything you need, and nothing you don’t, for your next fly fishing CONQUEST.
Primal 4 Piece Bold Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #5, #6, #8 models
Primal 4 Piece Bold Fly Rod - 9ft. Fortune might favour the brave but fly fishing favours the BOLD. Fish with confidence using the best tools available to help you grow your skill set on the water.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 7ft 4in – #3
With this rod’s deep flexing action, touch sensitive tip, and small size, it’s perfect for short casts with dries and dry-dropper rigs in tight quarters. More accurate with higher line speed than glass, this is a great choice for people who prefer lighter quicker rods or fish in windy conditions on small waters. Recommended line weight 95-110 grains
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 7ft 4in – #3. The Scott GT Series represents a modern benchmark in feel, sensitivity and real-world fishability. Handcrafted in Montrose, Colorado, each rod combines contemporary carbon technologies with Scott’s celebrated small-batch craftsmanship. The 7'4" length is crafted for intimate water, stealthy approaches and ultra-sensitive dry-fly presentations. This model is all about touch, precision and refined control.
Scott 5 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 4in - #3
So smooth and balanced you won’t believe it’s a 5-piece rod. This little gem is perfect for hike in fishing on small streams and lakes where dries and dry-dropper rigs are the norm and packability is key. Recommended line weight 95-110 grains
Scott 5 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 4in - #3. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 5 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 4in - #4
A versatile smooth 4 weight for days when mixed techniques on small to medium sized streams and lakes call for nymphs, dries, or small streamers. This 5-piece is delicate enough to enjoy the tug of a small fish but has plenty of power to handle heavier flies and the big fish you didn’t expect to eat your hopper. Recommended line weight 115-125 grains
Scott 5 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 4in - #4. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #3
When midges or tricos are hatching bring your 7X, the 8103, and your A-game. This is hands down the finest technical dry fly fishing 3 weight we’ve ever built. Incredibly smooth with a delicate but precise tip, this rod is laser accurate and alive with feel. Recommended line weight 95-110 grains
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #3. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #4
A trusted friend who has fished Scott rods for over 40 years proclaimed, ‘this is the greatest 4 weight of my life’. We’d have to agree. There’s magic here. The rod perfectly balances a sensitive tip with smooth even power. Effortless to cast and control, incredibly precise, and a joy to fish. Recommended line weight 120-130 grains
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #4. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #5
This rod will handle heavier nymph rigs and let you fish the afternoon midge hatch on 7X. Endless possibilities with this ‘one rod to rule them all’. Long roll casts, precise overhead casts with long leaders, reverse curve casts. It’s a do it all rod that does it all well. Recommended line weight 140-150 grains
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #5. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #6
Drift boat fishing, a big Chubby with two weighted nymphs underneath, salmon flies, streamers. When you need to serve them a big meal, this is the rod. Smooth and powerful, it excels at loop size control, long roll casts, and controlling big fish. Recommended line weight 160-175 grains
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 8ft 10in - #6. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 9ft 8in - #4
Perfect for technical nymphing and tricky tailwaters. The extra reach of this rod helps extend long drag free drifts with little flies for finicky fish. It turns over the longest leaders with precision and protects light tippets. Recommended line weight 120-130 grains
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 9ft 8in - #4. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 9ft 8in - #5
A great rod for big water nymphing, single hand spey casts, or stillwater fishing. This powerful 5 weight comes with a fighting butt and excels and long smooth casts. It’s sensitive enough for tricky fishing like chironomid hatches and has the power to huck a streamer a country mile.
Scott 4 Piece GT-Series Fly Rod – 9ft 8in - #5. The GT Series blends high-modulus carbon engineering with Scott’s exceptional hand craftsmanship, offering stability, feel and high line-speed performance across multiple fishing styles.
Scott 4 Piece Wave Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, #11, #12 - Appointed with top grade components like SiC stripping guides, custom machined aluminum and graphite reel seats, and super grade cork, Wave rods are finished with as much thought as the technology loaded blank designs. Simply put, Wave rods are the greatest performance value Scott has ever created.
Scott 4 Piece Wave Fly Rod - 9ft. Light in hand, Wave rods easily generate high line speeds and controlled tight loops to cut through wind and deliver flies on target. With pulling power to spare, Wave rods are the perfect tool for pursuing powerful fish species in all fresh and saltwater environments.
Scott 4 Piece Session Fly Rod - 8ft - #3. Our team designed and crafted a series of rods to help you get the most from your time on the water-the most success, and the most enjoyment. Session rods are high-performance hand-crafted fly rods that blend some of our most acclaimed design approaches with our latest materials and technologies.
Scott 4 Piece Session Fly Rod - 8ft 6in - #4. Our team designed and crafted a series of rods to help you get the most from your time on the water-the most success, and the most enjoyment. Session rods are high-performance hand-crafted fly rods that blend some of our most acclaimed design approaches with our latest materials and technologies.
Scott 4 Piece Session Fly Rod - 9ft
Available in #4, #5, #6, #7, #8 models
Scott 4 Piece Session Fly Rod - 9ft. Our team designed and crafted a series of rods to help you get the most from your time on the water-the most success, and the most enjoyment. Session rods are high-performance hand-crafted fly rods that blend some of our most acclaimed design approaches with our latest materials and technologies.
Scott 4 Piece Session Fly Rod - 9ft 6in
Available in #5, #6 models
Scott 4 Piece Session Fly Rod - 9ft 6in. Our team designed and crafted a series of rods to help you get the most from your time on the water-the most success, and the most enjoyment. Session rods are high-performance hand-crafted fly rods that blend some of our most acclaimed design approaches with our latest materials and technologies.
Fly Rods
What Are Fly Rods and How Do They Work?
Fly rods are specialised fishing rods designed specifically for fly fishing, a technique where the weight of the fly line — rather than the lure — is used to cast an almost weightless artificial fly. Unlike conventional fishing rods, fly rods are built to load and unload energy smoothly, allowing anglers to present flies delicately on rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and saltwater flats.
At their core, fly rods work by flexing under the weight of the fly line during the casting stroke. This flex stores energy, which is then released to propel the line forward in controlled loops. The rod’s length, action, and line rating all influence how it casts, how it handles fish, and how comfortable it feels in use.
Fly rods are used across a wide range of disciplines, from light-line trout fishing on small streams to powerful saltwater fly fishing for species such as bonefish or bass. When paired with the right fly fishing reels and balanced with suitable fly lines, a quality fly rod becomes a precise and responsive tool that enhances both accuracy and enjoyment.
How to Choose the Right Fly Rod for Your Needs
Selecting the right fly rod depends on where you fish, the species you target, and your level of experience. While there is no single “best” fly rod, understanding the key specifications will help narrow down the options.
Rod Length
Most fly rods range between 7ft and 10ft. Shorter rods are often favoured for small rivers and tight, overgrown streams where accuracy matters more than distance. Longer rods offer better line control and mending, making them ideal for rivers, lochs, and stillwaters.
Line Weight (AFTM Rating)
Fly rods are rated by the weight of fly line they are designed to cast, typically from #2 through to #12. Lighter line weights suit small flies and delicate presentations, while heavier ratings provide the power needed for larger flies, windy conditions, or bigger fish.
As a general guide:
• #3–#4 rods suit small streams and light trout fishing
• #5–#6 rods are versatile all-rounders for rivers and lakes
• #7–#8 rods are popular for reservoir fishing and light saltwater use
Rod Action
Action describes where and how a fly rod bends. Fast-action rods flex mostly in the tip, offering high line speed and long-distance casting. Medium-action rods bend more progressively and are forgiving for developing casters. Slow-action rods flex deeply and excel at short-range accuracy and delicate presentations.
Materials and Build Quality
Modern fly rods are predominantly made from high-modulus carbon fibre, offering excellent strength-to-weight ratios and fast recovery speeds. Higher-end rods typically feature better-quality blanks, corrosion-resistant fittings, and refined cork handles for comfort during long sessions.
Durability is also important. If you regularly fish in challenging environments, consider rods designed to withstand frequent travel and variable weather, especially when paired with protective rod tubes and appropriate fly fishing clothing.
Top Fly Rod Brands and Models at Uttings
At Uttings, we stock fly rods from some of the most respected names in fly fishing, chosen for their performance, reliability, and innovation.
G. Loomis fly rods are renowned for cutting-edge blank technology and exceptional sensitivity, making them a favourite among experienced anglers seeking precision and power.
Scott fly rods blend traditional craftsmanship with modern performance, offering smooth actions that appeal to anglers who value feel, control, and refined casting characteristics.
Snowbee fly rods deliver outstanding value and versatility, with ranges suitable for beginners through to seasoned anglers looking for dependable performance across different fishing styles.
Whether you are upgrading your setup or starting from scratch, these brands offer fly rods suited to everything from small-stream trout fishing to demanding stillwater applications.
Fly Rod Tips and Expert Advice
Getting the most from your fly rod is about more than just the rod itself. Correct matching and good technique make a noticeable difference.
Beginners often benefit from a medium-action #5 or #6 rod, which provides enough power to learn basic casting while remaining forgiving of timing errors. Pairing the rod with a balanced reel and correctly weighted line helps improve casting rhythm and reduces fatigue.
More experienced anglers may choose specialised rods for different venues. For example, a fast-action 10ft rod improves reach and line control on large rivers, while a shorter rod enhances accuracy on intimate streams.
Regular care also extends the life of your fly rod. Rinse after use, particularly following saltwater fishing, and store sections dry in their tube. Investing in quality accessories from related fly fishing accessories categories can help protect your gear and improve efficiency on the water.
Why Buy Fly Rods at Uttings
Uttings is a family-run business based in Norwich, established in 1976, with decades of experience in outdoor and field sports retail. Our fly rods are carefully selected from the world’s leading brands to ensure anglers have access to equipment they can trust.
With over 45,000 five-star reviews on Trustpilot, Uttings is known for expert customer service, fast delivery, and a genuine passion for the great outdoors. Whether you are a first-time fly angler or a seasoned professional, our knowledgeable team is always on hand to offer practical advice and help you choose the right fly rod for your needs.
Fly Rods FAQs
What fly rod weight is best for beginners?
A #5 or #6 weight fly rod is widely considered the best starting point, offering versatility, manageable casting, and suitability for many trout fishing situations.
What does fly rod action mean?
Action refers to where the rod bends during casting. Fast-action rods bend near the tip, while medium and slow-action rods flex deeper into the blank.
How long should a fly rod be?
Most anglers choose rods between 9ft and 10ft, which provide a good balance of casting distance, control, and versatility.
Can one fly rod be used for rivers and lakes?
Yes, a general-purpose #5 or #6 fly rod can perform well on both rivers and lakes, making it ideal for anglers who fish multiple venues.
Are expensive fly rods worth it?
Higher-end fly rods often offer lighter weight, improved recovery, and refined actions, which experienced anglers may appreciate, though excellent results are still achievable with mid-range rods.
What fly line should I use with my rod?
Fly rods are designed to match a specific line weight, so always pair your rod with the corresponding AFTM-rated fly line.
How durable are modern fly rods?
Modern carbon fly rods are strong and resilient, but proper care, transport, and storage are essential to avoid accidental damage.