Choosing A Rod - Pieces (Are You Sure You Want That 12-Piece Rod?)

Maybe the biggest debate of all in regard to fly rods, we still feel that 2-piece rods are the best option for the average angler (although many disagree with us). Cheaper, lighter, and we feel more true (they just feel better to us) than their multi-piece cousins, 2-piece rods can be transported already put together (and with the fly on!) using a readily available "Reel On" style rod case.

If air travel is an infrequent activity for you, why spend the extra money and deal with the negatives associated with multi-piece rods (more pieces to put together, break or lose, added weight, etc.)? In addition, let us assure you that even a 7-piece rod is no guarantee that they will let you carry it on board the plane. Some airports (especially those that are not in a fly fishing area) simply don't like fly rods!

Regardless, the trends are clear (everyone is making multi-piece rods) and in some areas, multi-piece rods actually outsell 2-piece rods. If you feel the need to buy a multi-piece rod for everyday use, consider one made of an even number of sections (i.e., 4 or 6). This will allow you to carry the rod in a 2-piece case for everyday use and use the factory tube only when traveling, hiking, biking, etc.

As for purchasing a rod specifically for travel, backpacking, etc., in our opinion, the smaller the better. For maximum flexibility, consider a rod in a 5 to 7-piece configuration (these will fit anywhere!). Another valid exception is when that rod you love only comes in a multi-piece model (a fairly common occurrence). When this happens, don't deprive yourself of the rod simply because there are more pieces than you want!

      1. Material (Tradition or Technology?)
      2. Line Weight (One Size Doesn't Fit All!)
      3. Action (There Is A Place For All Of Them...)
      4. Length (Size Does Matter!)
      5. Pieces (Are You Sure You Want That 12-Piece Rod?)
      6. Overlay vs. Internal Ferrules (The Real Difference!)
      7. Standard Snake vs. Single Foot Guides (The Real Deal!)
      8. Factory vs. Custom (Things You Should Know!)
      9. Warranties (Why They Are Important...)
      10. New vs. Used (Is It really such a Great Deal?)
      11. Discontinued Rods (What Are They Really Worth?)

 

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