Rod Suggestions

JustMark · #1 10-31-2009, 04:04 PM

Some years ago I bought a load of fishing gear at auction. Among this kit, which has been in my shed ever since are a couple of Leeda Dragonfly 80 reels complete with new lines various and two spare spools.

I'm assuming that the '80' designation means they are 8 weight reels?

I'm really keen to try saltwater fly fishing so any suggestions for rods?

Pleccy · #2 10-31-2009, 05:18 PM

I've never used a Dragonfly reel so I can't comment, one of the older guys on here might know.

I assume you intend to focus on UK saltwater fly fishing? For the likes of Bass and Pollack a 9ft #8 rod would be ideal, a shorter rod will help to cut through the wind more easily, maintain tighter loops and more line speed, hence resulting in more distance. Do you have a particular budget that you would like to stick to?

The Greys Platimum XD saltwater and Airflo Bluetooth XT get my vote, both rods retail for around £200 and £99 respectively, however Garry Evans fishing tackle were blowing out the Bluetooth XT's for £59 a few months back.

JustMark · #3 10-31-2009, 05:30 PM

Pleccy, thanks for that. Just the info I needed.

Yes, mainly UK fishing from the beach and rocks. Budget is a bit tight coming up to Christmas, so I may have to look for something used under 50 quid ideally.

Pleccy · #4 10-31-2009, 05:40 PM

I've never used it however the Ron Thompson MPX + 9ft #8/9 seems to get some good, unbiased reviews. Garry Evans have them in at £59.99.

NICK R · #5 10-31-2009, 06:38 PM

The mpx is a cracking rod for the money

iam sure leeda do a dragonfly rod as well

JustMark · #6 10-31-2009, 08:08 PM

Just bought a Flextec XRD44 saltwater rod on Ebay. Sniped it in the last 10 seconds for £29 Result.

Thanks for the help folks

JustMark · #7 10-31-2009, 11:39 PM

Now if there is an experienced saltwater fly angler in South Devon who fancies a couple of beers and maybe even a fish supper on me, in exchange for a day showing me what to do with this kit we're on to a winner ;0)

Jolly Piscator · #8 11-01-2009, 09:04 PM

I too have recently bought a xrd44 from ebay (had to pay £2 more for mine).
seems like a very nice rod for the money . went for the 10'6'' model to help with roll casting for carp , hope the extra length isn't too much of a problem when taking it to the coast .
sorry can't offer you any useful advice as am a novice fly fisherman myself , but wish you luck & maybe meet up sometime for a salty fluff flinging session .
Ps.
check out sportfish.com for bass flies ect.

JustMark · #9 11-02-2009, 06:28 PM

Just been to sportfish.com. Ordered my 2010 "Women in Waders" calander. What did I go in there for again?

JustMark · #10 11-05-2009, 08:46 AM

Well, my new rod has just arrived. It's over 20 years since I last fly fished, and seeing as the last rod I used was my conger rig this seems like a whisker!

I must say though, for the price it's outstanding value. Beautifully finished rod. Four section heavy cloth bag and a wooden rod tube with brass screw fittings to keep the lot in.

I've got some sea trout flies so I'll be off to the beach this weekend to fling some fluff!

Fishing Forum