Types
Fly rods are constructed from graphite, glass or bamboo. The rods are built for actions ranging from stiff and slow to ultra fast. The rods also are available in weights ranging from zero to 15. The reels are built from light, alloy metals and they use a drag system to create tension on the line.
Function
The action of the fly rod varies to suit the fishing application. Fast rods are used to generate line speed for long casts. Slow rods are used to cast heavy flies and battle strong winds. The weight of the rod must match the weight of the line and reel. The weight is determined by the general size of the fish being targeted.
Significance
Fly rods and reels can be used to catch a large variety of game fish. Zero to three weight rods are ideal for small trout and pan fish, four to six weight rods are primarily used for trout and seven to 10 weight rods will suffice for large warm water species, steelhead, salmon and many of the saltwater species. Rods larger than 10 weights are commonly used for large saltwater game fish.
Article Written By Zach Lazzari
Zach Lazzari is an outdoor writing specialist. He has experience in website writing as well as standard newspaper writing. He wrote an outdoor column for the Silver World in Lake City, Colo., and articles for Colorado-mountain-adventure.com. Lazzari is currently completing his bachelor's degree online through Arizona State University and lives in southwest Montana.