The eastern United States is full of some great waters for fly fishing for trout. Whether you live in New England and walk-and-wade small streams or live in the South and spend your time fishing tailwaters or Appalachian creeks, choosing the right fly rod for trout fishing is crucial for success. With so many options to choose from the choice can seem daunting, but here is some advice to help you choose the best fly rod and have more success when planning and fishing places to fish near you.

Choose the correct weight rod. The East and South have so much variety, it is crucial to understand line weight. Fly rods are categorized by weight to match the weight of the fly line. A 4 or 5 weight rod is ideal for smaller streams and trout. A 6 and 7 weight rod is ideal for larger rivers and some warmwater species, such a smallmouth bass.

Length matters. Unless you only fish small creeks that have thick brush and over-hanging bushes,  9-foot rod is a good all-around choice, providing versatility for casting and roll casting. The longer the rod the easier it is to set the hook and fish certain types of rigs, like two-fly nymph rigs. But a short rod will be much easier to fish on a small creek because you can cast easier without snagging brush. This length is also versatile because fishing double-nymph rigs or streamers is less of a chore than when fishing shorter rods. Longer rods offer less sensitivity for smaller waters or situations where small flies and light tippets are necessary, such as a spring creek.

Consider the material of the fly rod. With so many smaller waters for fly fishing near you in the East, anglers need to know the difference between graphite and fiberglass rods. Graphite allows for lightweight and sensitive rods that are ideal for most conditions. Fiberglass rods offer a slower action, which can be beneficial for delicate presentations, especially for smaller streams.

A medium, or medium-fast action rod is preferred. Rod action is how it flexes when cast or when a fish is hooked. Slow-action rods may struggle in heavy wind or be outmatched for double nymph rigs. Rods that are too fast or too stiff can't protect light tippets by having a flexible tip if a big fish is hooked. Pick a rod with a medium or medium-fast action because they offer the widest range of casting ease and fish sensitivity.

Cast it before you buy it. Unless you have personal experience with a fly rod, always cast it before you invest in purchasing it. Try to cast it the conditions you will be fishing--if you fish in windy areas try to cast it on a windy day.

Much like hunting or golf, you need tools that are specifically designed to the task you want to accomplish. Here is some advice on choosing the best fly rod for fly fishing for trout in the western United States. You’ve already chosen the perfect tool by using onWater to help you find more places to fish near you, now just be sure you are armed with the best rod.

Be sure to read onWater fishing blog posts to plan better and fish smarter and help you find places to fish near you.

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