Looking for the best fly fishing rod and reel combos? One of the most difficult fly fishing options for beginners is finding and choosing a good fly fishing rod and reel combos. A good fly fishing rod and reel will help you learn and make it easier to cast and catch fish, while a bad rod can be so troublesome that you give up the sport altogether. The challenge is to find the best fly fishing rod and reel combos for the money. And what does money matter? Your budget.
I recommend that you don’t buy a cheap rod from a discount retail store or any cheap knockoffs. Instead, I recommend several affordable fly fishing rod and reel combos that are perfect for beginners and will last for years. All of these fly fishing rod and reel combos combine quality with a relatively low investment that will help you learn to fly fishing without breaking the bank.
Any of the best fly fishing rod and reel combos listed below will pay off for beginners, and they all make great fly fishing gifts. Before I started testing and reviewing rods and reels for us, we used to fish a 9 foot 6 weight Sage fly fishing rod. Weight 6 was ideal for longer casts in larger waters. To balance the weight of 6, I also carried an inexpensive 8 foot 4-weight KastKing fly fishing rod and reel combo for smaller streams or skittish fishing.
How To Choose The Best Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combos For Beginners Of 2023
Warranty
If you always want a guarantee for your equipment, it will break, I promise you. Your wife, your son, or maybe you closed the door of your rod once or twice, mine has done it twice. A good rod comes with a lifetime warranty, most brands stand behind their equipment and will repair or replace your rod very quickly so you don’t lose your fishing.
Target Species
Which fish are you targeting? If you are freshwater fishing and I say you want to fish for trout and bass, then you will want something like a 5 or 6 peso rod. This will allow you to cast heavier flies for bass, but you will still have plenty of action for a fun fight and it won’t wear you out casting it all day.
If striper and musky is your thing, you may want to use something between a 7-9wt rod because you need more rod strength and something to cast heavier flies. Remember that the fly fishing line is casting its fly, so you need a heavier line to cast heavier flies. You won’t get very far with a 5wt trying to throw a 10″ musky streamer.
Rod Material
What do you mean by rod material? What is your cane made of, fiberglass, graphite, bamboo? This is not the most necessary thing to consider, but it will determine how much you spend and how tired you will be of throwing and fighting fish. You won’t find a lot of bamboos, it’s very, very expensive and you don’t have to.
Graphite will be the next most expensive, it will be a faster rod because it is stiff and will make it easier to launch and fight fish. Glass is usually cheaper, not always, but most of the time it is. However, it is a bit more fun, you will find that the rods are shorter, they can be bent very easily and they are very slow casting rods.
However, the glass will make even small fish feel like Jaws is at the end of their line at times. In my opinion, the glass will be more for experienced anglers, but if you can learn to cast on glass, then graphite will be a breeze.
Rod Length and Weight
Yes, we do cover the weight in point number 2, however, we will look at it again with the length because it plays a big role in the length you will buy. You will find that the standard length for most rods between 5wt-10wt will be 9 feet long. It’s when you go to the rods above or below that, that thing starts to change.
So, if your target species is native small brook trout in the Appalachians, you may want a double-rod or both. My go-to for small brook trout is a 5’9″ long 3wt glass rod, the fight is better and I can sneak it into tight spots where casting is not an option. But again, I think the most versatile rod For all freshwater fishing.it is a 9ft 5wt rod because you can catch most fish of all sizes on this rod with the right leaders and the knowledge of how to work with the fish.
What Are The Benefits of the Best Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combos For Beginners?
What are the benefits of buying a best fly fishing rod and reel combos instead of buying individual pieces separately? In fact, there are many benefits. While most of the benefits are geared towards the new and novice angler, even intermediate anglers will find many benefits when purchasing a combo pack. Some benefits include:
Cost Savings
Buying individual pieces is expensive. A general rule of thumb is that a combo/bundle package will save 10-20% of the cost of purchasing the components separately. And sometimes, the savings will be even greater.
Convenience
When purchasing a fly fishing rod and reel combo, the fly fishing reel arrives with the fly line backing and the fly line already wound on the reel. Therefore, a fisherman will not have to try to do it themselves or find a fly shop to do it for them.
Everything Matches
For beginning anglers, this, in my opinion, is the most important benefit of purchasing a combo pack. A combo pack will always contain a correctly matched fishing rod, fly fishing reel, and fly fishing line. Or, to put it another way, the fly fishing rod and fly fishing reel will correctly match the weight of the fly line that comes with the package.
Well Balanced
With most fly fishing rod and reel combos, manufacturers now ensure that when a fisherman holds the fly fishing rod, everything appears “well balanced”. This means that when an angler holds the fly fishing rod parallel to the ground, the rod does not threaten to tilt forward or backward due to the fly fishing reel being too heavy or too light.
9 The Best Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combos Of 2023
Before making a purchase you should think about how you are going to use your best fly fishing rod and reel combos for beginners. Just for a weekend fly fishing trip with a few friends? Are you fairly new to the sport of fly fishing but want to get some advanced tackle to improve your skills? Or are you looking for high-quality equipment?
1. Kastking Emergence Fly Fishing Combo
Kastking Emergence Fly Fishing Combo
The Kastking Emergence Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is a great option if you are new to fly fishing. You have yet to find out if it’s for you. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get going with this fly fishing starter kit.
The Kastking Emergence Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo comes in three versions. The 4wt – 8’6 ″ option is a good option if you are primarily fishing for small streams and streams. The 5wt – 9 ′ is a classic rod for targeting species like trout. It can handle stronger fish and is a great all-around rod. If you are looking to target stronger species like pike or sea bass, the 8wt – 9 ′ is the best option.
With a classic 4-piece fly fishing rod, it’s also great for traveling. It comes with an aluminum fly fishing reel, fly fishing line and backing, a tapered leader, and a selection of 12 flies including dry flies, nymphs, and streamers in a fly fishing box. The best thing about this kit is the fact that the fly fishing reel is already fully loaded with backing, fly line, and leader. This means that you are ready to jump into the water right away.
Plus, the Kastking Emergence Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo has all the little tools you need to handle a fish. Includes clamp, string clamp with a retractor, and strike indicators to make it easier for you to catch your first fish.
Our Verdict: Great entry-level fly fishing starter kit that comes in three sizes. Includes everything you need for your first day on the water. Great value for the price. It is also a great gift idea for people looking to get started in the sport.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 8 ft – 9 ft
Line Weight : 4-8wt
Material : Graphite
Brand : KastKing
Pros
- Graphite rod
- Tons of accessories
- Easy to handle cork grip
- Affordable
- 9ft medium action rod
Cons
- Has no instruction manual for assembly and fly attachment
2. Wild Water Fly Fishing Set
Wild Water Fly Fishing Set
The Wild Water Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is the cheapest way to test a day of fly fishing as far as your gear is concerned. It is not necessary to choose the correct version as the wild water fly fishing starter kit only comes in 4 pieces of 5/6 weight. This is the perfect rod for entry-level fly fishermen as it can basically cover all situations when fishing for species like trout.
The hard case that comes with this is very practical, as you don’t even have to remove the spool. At the top, it has a pocket that can hold your fly box, guides, and tippet reel, very useful. A carrying strap and a hand ring complete the well-thought-out package.
The fly fishing reel even features an adjustable disc brake, something that normally only comes with high-end reels. This means that you can adjust the resistance (stopping power) according to the species you are targeting, a nice feature for an entry-level product like this fly fishing rod and reel combo. You can easily switch the reel recovery from left to right.
To give you a perfect first-day experience, it comes with a fly box that includes 18 flies. Aside from the Kastking Emergence Fly Fishing Rod An Reel Combo, the fly box only includes dry flies. Replacement leaders, forceps, and a line clamp complete the Kastking Emergence fly fishing rod and reel combo.
Our Verdict: For just over $ 100 you can get started fly fishing using this fly fishing starter kit. If you’re sticking with the sport, this won’t be your last fly fishing rod and combo, but it’s a great way to start or give as gifts.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 9 ft
Line Weight : 5-6 wt
Material : Graphite
Brand : Wild Water
Pros
- Affordable Price
- Action (slow)
- Everything is included
- Accurate at short distances
- Very easy to control for beginners
Cons
- Concerns about durability
- Does not have a ton of power for long ranges
3. Orvis Encounter Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
Orvis Encounter Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
The Orvis Encounter Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is our best option when it comes to value for money. Orvis is a brand with a long tradition in fly fishing. They also make high-end rods. It’s always a good idea to source products from such a brand, as you can be sure that they use your knowledge even on their entry-level products, such as tis.
The base of this rod is the Encounter Fly 5wt – 9 ‘rod that comes with a Cordura rod tube. If you had to fish with a single rod, you should probably get a 5wt, as you can cover most fishing situations with it (the bigger the fish you are targeting, the stronger you will need a rod for sure).
With the Orvis Encounter Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo comes an Encounter fly fishing reel, Orvis WF (weight forward) floating line, Dacron backing, and a tapered leader. All that’s left for you is to tie in a fly and voila. If you are looking for flies and a fly box, check out our “Guide to the best fly boxes”.
Our Verdict: It’s a great option if you think you’ll stick with fly fishing. Orvis guarantees high-quality products and this is definitely a set that you can wear for years to come.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 9 ft
Line Weight : 5 wt
Material : Graphite
Brand : Orvis
Pros
- Low and affordable price
- Top brand fly fishing combo
- Durable construction
- You get everything you need: rod reel, line, leader, and backing
- Ideal combo outfit to teach novice anglers how to fly fish
Cons
- No protective case for the reel
- The plastic construction of the reel makes it less durable
4. Redington 590 Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
Redington 590 Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
Redington is another fishing rod manufacturer with a long tradition. Their range of fly fishing rods is not as sophisticated as Orvis superior rods, but their quality is very solid. The Redington 590 Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is no exception to this rule.
It consists of a Crosswater fly fishing rod and a reel that comes pre-wound with a Rio WF line. The cordura rod case allows you to keep the reel attached to the rod during transport.
It is available in a variety of options. You can choose a 4wt if you intend to fish only in smaller streams. If your focus is bigger fish, maybe even in salt water, you should go for a 9wt. The Redington 590 Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo features an aluminum reel, which means you can safely use the rod in saltwater.
Our Verdict: Starting at $ 129, the Redington 590 Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is a great choice for the fly fishing angler or the intermediate woman. As with Orvis, you can be sure that the combined benefits from Redington’s great knowledge.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 9 ft
Line Weight : 5 wt
Material : Composite
Brand : Redington
Pros
- Both starter friendly and professional efficient fly combo
- You will get smooth and pinpoint casting
- Maintains a balance between weight and strength
- This is for both fresh and saltwater use combo
- Different reel seats for different rods makes it identical
- Extremely durable for intensive fishing
Cons
- The outer frames are not durable enough
- The reels become loose very quickly
5. Orvis 2019 Clearwater Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
Orvis 2019 Clearwater Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
The Orvis 2019 Clearwater Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is our pick when it comes to advanced fly fishing sets. This rod and reel combination is a piece of equipment that you will be able to use for many years to come.
In the Orvis 2019 Clearwater Fly Fishing Rod And Reel Combo, the American manufacturer combines its mid-range fly fishing rod and reel. Choosing is easy as this fly fishing rod and reel combination only comes as a 4 piece 5wt 9’0 ″ fly fishing rod. Anyone looking for a great trout setup can’t go wrong with this fly fishing rod and reel set.
In addition to the rod and reel, it comes with an Orvis Clearwater WF fly fishing line (plus backing) and an Orvis tapered leader. All you need to do is tie up your favorite fly. Comes with a cordura wand tube for safe transport.
Our Verdict: This is a great fly fishing rod and reel combo for the advanced fly fisherman who wants his gear to last a few years. It offers excellent value for money.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 9 ft
Line Weight : 5 wt
Material : Graphite
Brand : Orvis
Pros
- The rod looks phenomenal
- Affordable price
- Simple design but elegant
- High class
- Extremely versatile
Cons
- The rod is fairly stiff
6. Sage Fly Fishing FOUNDATION Outfit
Sage Fly Fishing FOUNDATION Outfit
American manufacturer Sage produces some of the best fly fishing rods on the planet. The Foundation fly fishing rod included in this is handcrafted on Bainbridge Island, USA.
Again, what we’ve said before about Orvis and Redington is true. The quality of Sage’s high-end fly fishing rods seeps into the Foundation series. Everything about this fly fishing rod, from the white color to the wraps and snake guides, represents superior quality.
It also includes a Sage Black / Platinum 2200 fly fishing reel. It comes with a Rio Gold Fly fishing line (including backrest) and a tapered leader. The rod and reel case is also included in the set, of course.
Our Verdict: This is a premium fly fishing rod set for any fly fisherman or woman who wants the best in quality. It comes with the renowned Sage warranty. A great investment if you are serious about fly fishing.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 9 ft
Line Weight : 7-8 wt
Material : Graphite IIIe
Brand : SAGE
Pros
- Very comfortable grip
- Versatile and suitable for all conditions
- Affordable price
- Neat finishing on the wraps
- Simple but attractive matte black design
- Made in America
Cons
- Not great for long-distance casts
- A bit heavy
- No alignment dots or hook keeper
7. Echo Gecko for Kids
Echo Gecko for Kids
The Echo Gecko Kids Fly Fishing Kit is a fantastic way for youngsters to get a taste of fly fishing. Echo is a highly respected brand in the fly fishing world and has created a great fly fishing rod and reel combo for kids.
The rod action of the Echo Gecko Kids Fly Fishing Kit is moderate so that even young children around 6 years old can make their first casts. The grip even allows for two-handed throwing, requiring even less force from a child. This kit comes fully loaded with a rod, reel, and line, so your kids can start fishing right away. All you will need is a tippet and a fly.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 3 – 7 ft
Line Weight : 4-5 wt
Material : Fiberglass
Brand : ECHO
Pros
- Very suitable for kids
- Quality build for a great price
- Love the looks on the water
- Short length
Cons
- A little more difficult
8. Redington Fly Fishing Combo Kit 580
Redington Fly Fishing Combo Kit 580
The Redington Fly Fishing Combo Kit 580 is another great option if your kids want to see if fly fishing is for them. This set is aimed a little more at teenage anglers. At 8 feet, the length of the rod is slightly shorter than most trout fly fishing rods, which are often around 9 feet.
The alignment points on the Redington Fly Fishing Combo Kit 580 make it easy to mount the rod even for beginners. Redington is known to produce high-quality fly fishing gear at affordable prices. It is no exception to this rule, as the set comes with a pre-rolled Crosswater reel with a conventional Rio fly fishing line. 1-year warranty included.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 8 ft
Line Weight : 5 wt
Material : Graphite
Brand : Redington
Pros
- Shorter cork grip for easy grip
- Shorter rod length translating to the lightness
- Comes with a Cordura rod tube
- Generally a lightweight combo
- Highly affordable
- Medium action rod
- Rod comes with assembling dots
Cons
- The zipper is too durable even with several washing
9. Redington VICE Combo
Redington VICE Combo
The Redington VICE Combo combines a fast action rod that launches above its price with a solid reel. Redington created this new combination for existing fly fishermen looking for an affordable upgrade from their previous entry-level systems. The venture succeeded – the VICE Combo offers the best performance value because the rod is thrown so well for the price. Read our full Redington VICE review. One more thing: we are fans of green, it looks fantastic in natural light.
Product Specifications
Rod Length : 9 ft
Line Weight : 4 wt
Material : Graphite
Brand : Redington
Pros
- Very accurate
- Affordable
- Fast action yet very manageable
- All-purpose use
- Balanced weight and feel
- Aesthetics on point
- Variety of weights and lengths to choose from
- Comes with a durable Cordura rod tube
Cons
- The rod is a little clunky when casting at short distances
Conclusion
A best fly fishing rod and reel combos is a perfect setup for someone who is new to fishing or is transitioning from a spinning rod. It comes ready to use and the only thought an angler should have is what weight do I need and how long it should be.
Unfortunately, the combos still have a stigma around them, and that needs to be put aside. You can find great outfits for an even higher price and you can wear them for years to come too. Hopefully, after reading this, you’re already armed to go out and find the best budget fly fishing rod and reel combos.
