Flats Class TV

Hey guys,

 

I am looking to get into some inshore fly fishing, it just looks like too much fun to not.  I have very little clue on gear but after doing some research it looks like an 8wt rod and reel would suit me the best.  I will be going after reds and trout on open flats mainly.  If anyone has any suggestions about brand of rod/reel or if I am even in the right ball park with an 8wt, it would be appreciated.  Like I said this will be my first go at it so I don’t want to spend a lot of money but I know you get what you pay for.  Thanks in advance.

 

Jay

Jay,

I've recently gotten into fly fishing as well. I can tell you first off 8wt is a good size for trout and reds. As far as rods and reels I haven't tried out enough to really make a recomendation. I have a Pflueger Trion and an Okuma Helios and they both work great. I have learned most of what I know (and I do not claim to know much) from talking to more experienced fly guys. I have two fly shops around me that I frequent. Any time they are doing fly tying events I make it a point to go hang out. Just to watch and listen you gain a wealth of knowledge and recomendations.

C.A., If you see this when are you and Ray gonna do a FCTV episode to show off some of your skills with a buggy whip?

-Jared E.

im just getting started, and have picked up alot in the last two months from alot of trial and error.

the faster the rod the better, which allows you to be able to load the rod and cast to a fish with one false cast.

im using the rio bonefish line which is a tropical line with an integrated taper that is very gradual... which seems to work well when you need to carry alot of line.

and practice, practice, practice...

hope this helps,

jack
15
orlando

Thanks for the input guys. I'm looking forward to getting one and trying to figure it out. Im sure I will have plenty more questions as time goes by.

Jay

Hey guys just wanted to let you know i got a great deal on a TFO Lefty Kreh Signature Series 8wt and Battinkill LA reel.  Thank you for all of your help and I will post my progress as time goes by!

The rod you bought is very good, excellent bang for the buck. The reel is decent as well. The only problem I have found with the Battenkill series is over time the drag slips and can over spool on a hard running fish. Over time you'll be able to slow a fish by palming the reel so it may be a non issue. Plus Orvis has a very good warranty. I know flyfishing equipment can be costly, but I think you did well with your purchase. Also here is a tip for you. I ALWAYS tape my ferrels together with electrical tape to prevent them working loose from all the false casting you'll be doing. Sometimes your ferrels will be loose without you knowing and it can shatter your rod on a hook set. Good luck and tight lines. Chris

Chris,
Thanks for the advice! I think I am going to need electrical tape for my shoulder not just the rod! exactly how are you taping them? just putting some on the "male" end before putting them together? or wrapping the connection together?  I am looking forward to being able to actually cast on the water and not in my front yard! Thanks again!

Jay

I just give the ferrel two tight wraps after I put them together on the out side of the blank. I picked this up from some Pacific Northwest guys several years ago. I even tape my two piece spinning rods as well.
As far as your shoulder goes...well maybe a couple of advil and a vodka tonic will fix that. That TFO pro series rod is very fast. If you overload the rod with say a nine weight line that has a heavier grain weight will take off some of the pressure and also learn to double haul....if you haven't already. Not only will this allow the rod to load better you can slow down your casting stroke....less shoulder fatigue. Tight lines...Chris