Superb advice, according to how most fisherman think here in Italy. My dry fly rod is also a 7’ 6” - 3 wt and my go to nymphing rod is a 10’-3wt as it can handle most of my needs. I do have a 10’-4wt but use it only on a certain river where I know some big fish require it. Most competitors on the FIPS Mouche European & World Championships use the same on rivers. I used to be a judge & international supervisor with these events. For some of them with nymph fishing, the longer the rod the better using over 10’ rods now. I’m still learning after over 20 years of fishing here, and am starting to think that I’m finally starting to have a bit of knowledge with so so much more to learn.
Took this advice and I have instantly gotten better. Tight banks here in N. Ga. and the 10' is amazing. Gives you some reach above and some powerful roll casts.
Thanks Drew! As a vacationing fly fisher, I’m always with a guide and most over complicate this topic. You make it simple to understand and low stress! Merry Christmas and thanks for the year of adventure and learning!
Merry Christmas and Happy new year! Happy to share my view on it...I've simplified my approach over the years. Life's complicated, fishing shouldn't be!
Stuff most shop guys won't tell you but important. I have a smallish fly rod and caught a lot on small streams but had trouble on bigger ones so I got out my spinning rod. Your videos motivated me to get some rods and hit the road and streams. I know a couple places you were near where the geode collecting is grea, and agate, jasper, minerals and other gems. Los of gems out there besides the beautiful fish and you effortless casting. Love you channel! Besides fishing, I love to rockhound.
Haha, I have no idea what u said but glad I could share some of my views on rods! Pretty much all I can speak intelligently on these days...and it's a stretch to say intelligently lol!
Good advice for sure, once one gets the basics and wants more than a 9' 5wt. I use my 10'6" Spey rod with my 6wt. reel as a nymphing rod when I'm not Spey casting with it, and like the control Drew speaks of (e.g. mending, etc.). ☮ from North Idaho.
Good info drew, for my neck of the woods I use a 7.6ft.4wt. 7ft.3/4wt. A 6ft 2wt. And a 5ft.2wt. I've enjoyed all of them for years, but the 5ft.2wt.for small stream tight fishing is a blast, like a ultra light flyrod. Thanks for sharing, until next time. 👍
I fish a 20 foot rod mostly. It’s a 10 weight but it doesn’t matter. I like watching my line flow. I can cast or fish any size, but prefer the 150-300 foot casts. I can fish the Fraiser or Snake, and the Indian side of the Descutes from the non Indian side.
Was out in Idaho also this summer, and exclusively used a 10’ 3wt rod - a Euro rod. Carried two reels with me, one set up with nymph rig, and one with 5wt delicate floating line, and found it a decent one-rig setup.
I have a 3wt euro rod as well, I have a wt4 full sink wt4 full float and a 150gr skagit setup. HIGHLY recommend you get a 150gr head, it’s a blast to single spey small light rods with soft hackles.
My grandfather always bought me 9’ 5 or 5/6 fly rods to fish open water on the river. Great for dry fly fishing I’ve found. I also recently bought a 10.5’ 4wt for a medium sized stream and that’s excellent for gaining some reach euro nymphing. But even with a 4wt, when trying to land 4lb fish from 3’ of moving water, it’s tough. Way easier to land fish with the 5-5/6. But yes, there are several benefits and drawbacks overall, for sure. Great video. Some really nice footage.
I just got back from asheville nc. Small stream trout fishing at its best. I took all 3 setups. 7.5ft 4wt. 9ft 5wt and 9ft 6wt. 100% agree with this video. Have options, you don't know what you will get into. Where I went, a shorter rod was perfect. I could have done it with a longer rod, but it would have made things far more challenging.
Thanks for posting this excellent video. You explanation lets me know that I'm on the right track to becoming a better fly fisherman. My growing fly rod collection consists of a (6'6", 3 wt) and (6'11", 4 wt), which I alternate between depending on the water flow and canopy of the stream. I'll often rig one for nymph fishing, and the other for streamer fishing. I live near a large, powerful river (the Penobscot, in Orono, ME). To fish it, my "go to" rods are a (9', 6wt) for smallmouth bass fishing and a (9'6", 8/9 wt) for Stripers. PS) Methinks that I might need a 10', 4wt for Christmas...wonder where I got that idea?
If I ever recover from two frozen shoulders I'm going to take up fishing again. You are an inspiration that's for sure. In the meantime have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Definitely hope that happens for you. Fishing is good medicine...some say the best. I know it has a significant impact on my personality...I'm difficult if I don't fish often lol! Merry Christmas!
Great video and information Drew. In water bigger than a creek, I almost always use my 10' 4wt rod. Like you say, it has great reach, additionally it's performs like a 5wt rod due to it's length.
Great vid! I love watching your strictly fishing vids too, but I'm still very new to fly fishing, so these types of vids are really helpful. I'm always looking for opportunities to learn from experiences anglers, so thank you. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for the feedback! I definitely make these for those that are looking for more information and have asked for it. RUclips tells me they suck and that most of my audience isn't interested in this topic lol!
@@LooknFishy that's understandable. I imagine most people are here for the fishing content. I learn plenty just from watching how you work different sections of water. Regardless, I'm looking forward to more content on the channel!
Just found your channel, great video in some beautiful waters! I have salt water fly fished for over 25 years. I recently moved near some awesome trout waters in northwest NJ and have decided to try my hand. I have been undecided on what setup to go with, I own nothing smaller than a 7wt. The typical 9' 5wt Swiss army knife of trout rods just didn't seem right to me for the small to mid size waters. This video has helped make my final decision, 8'.6" 4wt it is! And the future will hold a 7'.6" 3wt to pack on my Harley for my many trips to the Blue Ridge/Great Smoky's and those mountain streams. Thanks for the great info and for taking the time to produce and post this video, you have a new subscriber!!!
So stoked that you reply! I love the stuff you do. Im going to be out this summer doing colorado, wyoming, montana, and idaho. Id love to see you out brother
Just got a 10' 4# for my quiver. Use my 6# on the Miracle Mile in WY where wind & 5-10lb++ fish are very real. Please don't change your net over the winter. Looks perfect with all those zip ties. Merry Fishmas & a real happy new year! Tight Lines.
I've found a long rod is surprisingly versatile on many waters, including some small fairly overgrown streams. When you don't have room to cast or roll cast you can just dead drift off the end of the rod. So if I had to have two rods I would have an 11' and a 7'6". I use my 11' for all lakes from boat and bank and most rivers. Been fishing 40 years mostly with a long rod in a Scottish inspired style based/adapted on Loch fishing techniques.
Great videos Drew! BTW, Thanks for your service to our country! I’ve watched all of your vids. Live in Edmond, OK and fish all over from Wyoming, Montana, CO, and mostly in in your home waters in AR and MO. Love Crain Creek and the White. Fav all time stream is the Soda Butte in YNP. Made more than 20 trips there. I’ve noticed through the years you’re a big Orvis fan. I looks like your 7 1/2 3wt and 8 1/2 4wt are Super Fine rods. I am a big fan of those. Could you at some point like in down time back home talk about why you prefer the fuller flex rods and describe some of your equipment? Thanks again.
Thank you. Yea, the more time I spend out west the more I need! Orvis has been good to me. They've replaced or loaned me rods last minute after I broke one or needed one for a trip...and I had no social following. Just good people doing good stuff. So I appreciate that probably more than anything!
Boom Awesome stuff! I have a 4 weight as well. I love how you can see in your videos all of the strikes using the indicator secondary fly, although you seem to hook quite a few on that fly.
Great video Drew!! I have 3 of the 4 here in Idaho and love them. You are right on!! Will check into the 7’6” for sure!! Merry Christmas brother!! Stay safe!!
I’m pretty close to what you do. 7 1/2 ft 3wt, 8ft 4wt, 9ft 4wt. 8 1/2ft 5wt, 9ft 5wt and lastly a 9ft 6wt. Is what I take out west. The 8ft 4wt and 3wt are my go to rods in the driftless area along with a 7 1/2ft 5wt. The short 5wt is a decent little streamer rod for the driftless, works for mouse patterns after dark too. Have a wonderful holiday.
Cool, not far off my setups: 6.5' - 2 wt (I've landed fish up to 17" with this rod, with quick enough fights even on 6x tippet. This is my go to around North Georgia) 8.5' - 4 wt (just got this rod, I anticipate this will become my go-to for my 2 month trip to Idaho next summer) 9.5' - 6 wt (streamers, nymphing on big streams) If I planned on any serious time strictly big water nymphing, I might prefer a 10' 3 wt to the 6 wt, but it doesn't come up much in GA.
Cool video. I totally agree with the 10ft to have line control . Mending and reach. I have a Scott fiber touch F series 7’2 3wt total noodle but have been sling out single nymph rigs. Have a few 10ft rods for big water 5 and 6 wt’s have a 8ft 4wt. Have used them all a lot over the yrs. Love your videos. Especially the way you hit the pools and and seams. Hope you have a great holiday season. Due for another red fish video aren’t you? 😂
Been watching the weather everyday for a month...nothing good yet. Plus my favorite area was destroyed by a hurricane so not sure I'll get one in before Feb.
I pretty much fish exclusively with my 7 and 1/2 foot rod. It is big enough to handle bigger fish and as you note, easier to use on small streams, which I prefer.
My quiver is: 8ft - 3wt (creek/small river rod) 8.5ft - 6wt (nymphing, dry flies to bigger fish, smaller streamers) 9ft - 8wt (big streamers, I fish alpine lakes a lot so it's nice for roll casting with trees everywhere)
Thanks Drew, was debating a 4wt 9' or a 10', definitely getting a 4wt 10'. I'm in Colo, and fish Wyoming alot, definitely need that 6wt for the Mighty North Platte and that wind! Tight lines! 👊🏽
Once again great video! What like do you prefer for your 1004? I picked up a Scott Centric and currently have a Rio Gold but am curious what you prefer. Guys at the shop tried to sell me a euro line but I don’t want to be pigeon holed into euro nymphing. Thanks!
My wife and I switched to fly fishing last year and we’re loving it. We both have 9’ 5wt Orvis set ups for fishing the white (cotter, Flippin, etc.. as well as below Beaver). I enjoy fishing the smaller creeks around here for bass and perch (think Crooked Creek). I was looking at getting a 7’6 3wt for that. What are your thoughts?
I haven't ventured into the over 9' rod market yet. Maybe that'll be my next rod🤔 Ive got a 7.5' 3wt, 8.5' 4wt and 9' 5wt. I do need a good streamer rod though, and I'd like something to go after pike with maybe an 8wt. Damnit.... This is getting expensive 🤣
you convinced. I now have a 7.5 inch 4 weight, a 9 ft 5 wt and a ten foot 5 weight that I can mix and match to my needs...I have a 5 weight but that is for bass..
Makes a lot of sense. If I were starting over I might go 8.5ft 4wt, not the standard 9ft 5wt that I have. Not sure though the difference is enough to go out and replace my perfectly functional 9ft 5wt. I have a 10ft 3wt I love for nymphing or even small streamers or dries. My next might be a 7.5 ft 3wt, don't have anything in that range now. Nice video.
I used to use that 2&3 weight shit creekin but found out pretty quick it's virtually useless to cast when high winds arise and when a surprise thumps that 3 wt tearing off fly line then making a beeline underneath a root wad, snapping you off like whispy sewing thread. Save your money and just use your 4 weight. It's light enough where it's still a fun battle on small fish yet stout enough to make serviceable casts in gusty winds and landing your surprises briskly without killing them critters from over exhaustion 😪
I have a rod locker with 4 spots that I normally use. But wasn't able to get a roof rack before my summer trip so I just keep one or 2 broken in half stored in my folded up back seat.
Hi Drew. Can you comment on what weight line you use with your rods? For instance, do you over line your 4 wt by putting 5 wt line on your reel? Thanks. I'm from Colorado and it is a wise thing to bring a heavier wt rod with you, simply because of the wind. Too many times I've watched my fishing friends get their 4wt lines thrown all over the place by the wind here. I've enjoyed your series of videos and I appreciate the time and effort you put into producing them.
I use the appropriate weight for the rod. Imo, overling negatively impacts presentation which is most important to me. If I needed a heavier rod for wind I'd bring it instead, just how I do it.
Was that a really dark cutthroat at 3:30 into the video. My nephew caught one last summer that was exactly like that and we were not 100% sure that it was a cutthroat.
I have a 8"4' 3wt for for small creeks and lakes and a 9" 7wt for trout on streamers, bass on streamers/poppers and fishing the San Diego bay with a sink tip. Im able get it all done with those two rods.
8.5f or 10ft 4wt....but depends on the water u see most. With the 10ft you'll be able to high stick runs and not worry with mending as much. This will ease some of the frustration. With that said, the 8.5ft was what I used most in ID. This vid shows which and why I chose the rod based on water type! The 10ft 4wt is my go to for almost everything
I have learned so much. I live in Colorado and you were fishing some streams I would have passed on. Waiting for the season. Question, Where you from? I don't want your address just what state? You mentioned "out west". You found streams much more than I have here (embarrassed) Going to southern Wyoming. Any recommendations on fly shops?
I agree with the 7' 6" #3 wt, I have one & it's perfect on headwater streams. I agree with every thing you said about that weight & length. I don't have any 10' or #4 rods. I have 2 #5 9' rods but have often thought one with and extension section wound be very versatile. I have seen them but not for some years now.
Most 10' 3 wts and 4 wt are completely different weapons. The taper of the blanks are different. The 3 wts are more euro style tuned kinda like a fatter but section than most 3 wts but the tip is lighter. I'd say the 3 wt might handle a fish better if you fight it with the butt section, but might not be a better fishing tool for your style. I've caught small Atlantic Salmon and steelhead up to 7-8 lb range on 10' 2 and 3 wts while euro nymphing, it handled it no prob.
Why orvis rods? I know their reels are worth the extra $$ (I have 2x LT III's). I mean, does the feel justify the extra outlay on a top end rod when you're mostly fishing short?
I never mentioned any brands, just length and weight. Personally I like Orvis...their customer svc is top notch but to each their own...recommending brands is like recommending beer...no way to know what u like! But I wouldn't say I fish short mostly, got tons of videos where I'm casting at distance and throwing mends on my channel from this road trip and over the last 2 yrs. All with my 10ft 4wt h3f!
@@LooknFishy A good beer haha that's a great way to put it! The White wrap is hard to miss on the Orvis. Having a some power in reserve is always good. Other hand I'm guilty of buying beers (and plenty of fly gear) that is overkill for the situation.
How far can you cast with the 7 and a half feet rod? Could you cast arround 40 ft? That's the maximum I've ever need to cast cause most of the rivers I fish in are at most 50 ft.
Can that 10’ 4 wt euro nymph effectively? I’m trying to get a big water nymphing rod that can still euro nymph well while also being able to cast indicator rigs with a simple change of spool when the situation calls for it. Also how does it fish dries and dry droppers?
Never tried euro but doubt it. It gets heavy high sticking...I'd compare it to a light 5wt. Definitely throws dries well...my dry fly paradise video is a good example. All of Idaho was dry/dropper!
This video is about the length of rod I suggest, not about a particular brand. Recommending a brand is like suggesting a particular beer...everyone has their own taste and I happen to like orvis. Their customer svc is great. They repaired a broken 8.5ft recon in 2 days! Hope u enjoy the vids!
I am right there with you on these. I have 1-7wt rods but fish an 8’3” 4 wt 90% of the time. 1 wt I could give up any day. Worthless. Rarely grab a a 5+ unless big streams or streamers for browns/salmon.
9.5ft 6wt lol! Like a little extra length for long leaders and heavy nymph rigs. Plus, I fish this a ton for bass in my kayak and 9.5ft clears the bow easily when fish run under the kayak!
Hi Drew, Although I'm going to Belize in May, after watching your videos for the last week all I can think of right now are thin blue lines and trout opportunities in SW Colorado. In all fairness I fished the LMFR at Beaver's Bend and the Little Red in May of this year and that may have had something to do with my trout-fever. I picked up a copy of the Benchmark Atlas for Colorado and I'm going through every NF MVUM that I have looking for new routes to explore. I want to add a small stream rod to those that I'll be taking to Colorado this June. I'm interested in a Grey's 3wt that is available in the US again but it is only available in a 7' length. Do you think the 6" loss in reach would be significant enough that I should consider other mfgs that offer a 7'6" graphite rod? My shortest rod right now is 9'.
Hey I'm going to post a video to my channel of my first time fly fishing and casting I'd really appreciate if you could give me some pointers awesome video thanks for sharing the info I'm fishing with a 7-ft four weight rod
Superb advice, according to how most fisherman think here in Italy. My dry fly rod is also a 7’ 6” - 3 wt and my go to nymphing rod is a 10’-3wt as it can handle most of my needs. I do have a 10’-4wt but use it only on a certain river where I know some big fish require it. Most competitors on the FIPS Mouche European & World Championships use the same on rivers. I used to be a judge & international supervisor with these events. For some of them with nymph fishing, the longer the rod the better using over 10’ rods now. I’m still learning after over 20 years of fishing here, and am starting to think that I’m finally starting to have a bit of knowledge with so so much more to learn.
Took this advice and I have instantly gotten better. Tight banks here in N. Ga. and the 10' is amazing. Gives you some reach above and some powerful roll casts.
Thanks Drew! As a vacationing fly fisher, I’m always with a guide and most over complicate this topic. You make it simple to understand and low stress! Merry Christmas and thanks for the year of adventure and learning!
Merry Christmas and Happy new year! Happy to share my view on it...I've simplified my approach over the years. Life's complicated, fishing shouldn't be!
Stuff most shop guys won't tell you but important. I have a smallish fly rod and caught a lot on small streams but had trouble on bigger ones so I got out my spinning rod. Your videos motivated me to get some rods and hit the road and streams. I know a couple places you were near where the geode collecting is grea, and agate, jasper, minerals and other gems. Los of gems out there besides the beautiful fish and you effortless casting. Love you channel! Besides fishing, I love to rockhound.
I keep the best but the rest is easy to sell.
Haha, I have no idea what u said but glad I could share some of my views on rods! Pretty much all I can speak intelligently on these days...and it's a stretch to say intelligently lol!
Good advice for sure, once one gets the basics and wants more than a 9' 5wt. I use my 10'6" Spey rod with my 6wt. reel as a nymphing rod when I'm not Spey casting with it, and like the control Drew speaks of (e.g. mending, etc.). ☮ from North Idaho.
Good info drew, for my neck of the woods I use a 7.6ft.4wt. 7ft.3/4wt. A 6ft 2wt. And a 5ft.2wt. I've enjoyed all of them for years, but the 5ft.2wt.for small stream tight fishing is a blast, like a ultra light flyrod. Thanks for sharing, until next time. 👍
Thank u!
Still in first couple years of fly casting...and you have shared so much info in this one presentation...Thanks, Drew!
Glad it was helpful!
I fish a 20 foot rod mostly. It’s a 10 weight but it doesn’t matter. I like watching my line flow. I can cast or fish any size, but prefer the 150-300 foot casts. I can fish the Fraiser or Snake, and the Indian side of the Descutes from the non Indian side.
😂 love it , but I still think a 30 foot 1 wt with a shooting head sink tip is the go.
Spey Rod?
@@robertmclean9737 no it’s a fast action rod. Overhead casting. 65 foot head that I false cast the send it to about 200 ft
Was out in Idaho also this summer, and exclusively used a 10’ 3wt rod - a Euro rod. Carried two reels with me, one set up with nymph rig, and one with 5wt delicate floating line, and found it a decent one-rig setup.
Awesome, definitely plan to play around with that style one day!
I have a 3wt euro rod as well, I have a wt4 full sink wt4 full float and a 150gr skagit setup. HIGHLY recommend you get a 150gr head, it’s a blast to single spey small light rods with soft hackles.
My grandfather always bought me 9’ 5 or 5/6 fly rods to fish open water on the river. Great for dry fly fishing I’ve found. I also recently bought a 10.5’ 4wt for a medium sized stream and that’s excellent for gaining some reach euro nymphing. But even with a 4wt, when trying to land 4lb fish from 3’ of moving water, it’s tough. Way easier to land fish with the 5-5/6. But yes, there are several benefits and drawbacks overall, for sure. Great video. Some really nice footage.
I just got back from asheville nc. Small stream trout fishing at its best. I took all 3 setups. 7.5ft 4wt. 9ft 5wt and 9ft 6wt. 100% agree with this video. Have options, you don't know what you will get into. Where I went, a shorter rod was perfect. I could have done it with a longer rod, but it would have made things far more challenging.
Thanks for posting this excellent video. You explanation lets me know that I'm on the right track to becoming a better fly fisherman. My growing fly rod collection consists of a (6'6", 3 wt) and (6'11", 4 wt), which I alternate between depending on the water flow and canopy of the stream. I'll often rig one for nymph fishing, and the other for streamer fishing. I live near a large, powerful river (the Penobscot, in Orono, ME). To fish it, my "go to" rods are a (9', 6wt) for smallmouth bass fishing and a (9'6", 8/9 wt) for Stripers. PS) Methinks that I might need a 10', 4wt for Christmas...wonder where I got that idea?
If I ever recover from two frozen shoulders I'm going to take up fishing again. You are an inspiration that's for sure.
In the meantime have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Definitely hope that happens for you. Fishing is good medicine...some say the best. I know it has a significant impact on my personality...I'm difficult if I don't fish often lol! Merry Christmas!
Great video and information Drew. In water bigger than a creek, I almost always use my 10' 4wt rod. Like you say, it has great reach, additionally it's performs like a 5wt rod due to it's length.
I agree completely...like a light 5 with presentation of a 4!
Great vid! I love watching your strictly fishing vids too, but I'm still very new to fly fishing, so these types of vids are really helpful. I'm always looking for opportunities to learn from experiences anglers, so thank you. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for the feedback! I definitely make these for those that are looking for more information and have asked for it. RUclips tells me they suck and that most of my audience isn't interested in this topic lol!
@@LooknFishy that's understandable. I imagine most people are here for the fishing content. I learn plenty just from watching how you work different sections of water. Regardless, I'm looking forward to more content on the channel!
I dig that puzzle in the background!!
My daughter loves to puzzle and gave me this one! Love it !
Just found your channel, great video in some beautiful waters! I have salt water fly fished for over 25 years. I recently moved near some awesome trout waters in northwest NJ and have decided to try my hand. I have been undecided on what setup to go with, I own nothing smaller than a 7wt. The typical 9' 5wt Swiss army knife of trout rods just didn't seem right to me for the small to mid size waters. This video has helped make my final decision, 8'.6" 4wt it is! And the future will hold a 7'.6" 3wt to pack on my Harley for my many trips to the Blue Ridge/Great Smoky's and those mountain streams. Thanks for the great info and for taking the time to produce and post this video, you have a new subscriber!!!
So stoked that you reply! I love the stuff you do. Im going to be out this summer doing colorado, wyoming, montana, and idaho. Id love to see you out brother
Definitely try to!
If you ever try the Metolius they have massive bull trout and incredibly beautiful native rainbows. Seems like the perfect river for you.
I like your underwater videos of the coastal cutthroats
Have looked it up since you've mentioned it...looks fantastic!
Wish you and your family a merry Christmas and plenty of good fishing next year. Torben
Merry Christmas Torben! Thank u for the kind thoughts!
Just got a 10' 4# for my quiver. Use my 6# on the Miracle Mile in WY where wind & 5-10lb++ fish are very real. Please don't change your net over the winter. Looks perfect with all those zip ties. Merry Fishmas & a real happy new year! Tight Lines.
No chance, my net has become part of me! Yep, I can see how a 6wt would be the rod of choice on the mile! Merry Christmas!
I've found a long rod is surprisingly versatile on many waters, including some small fairly overgrown streams. When you don't have room to cast or roll cast you can just dead drift off the end of the rod. So if I had to have two rods I would have an 11' and a 7'6". I use my 11' for all lakes from boat and bank and most rivers. Been fishing 40 years mostly with a long rod in a Scottish inspired style based/adapted on Loch fishing techniques.
So cool to hear how others do it. Thx for sharing!
@@LooknFishy long rods give you more control over the fly.
Hey Drew great video! would you spend more money on a premium 10 foot rod or more money on a premium 8.5 rod? PS loving the new trip footage!
Great videos Drew! BTW, Thanks for your service to our country! I’ve watched all of your vids. Live in Edmond, OK and fish all over from Wyoming, Montana, CO, and mostly in in your home waters in AR and MO. Love Crain Creek and the White. Fav all time stream is the Soda Butte in YNP. Made more than 20 trips there. I’ve noticed through the years you’re a big Orvis fan. I looks like your 7 1/2 3wt and 8 1/2 4wt are Super Fine rods. I am a big fan of those. Could you at some point like in down time back home talk about why you prefer the fuller flex rods and describe some of your equipment? Thanks again.
Thank you. Yea, the more time I spend out west the more I need! Orvis has been good to me. They've replaced or loaned me rods last minute after I broke one or needed one for a trip...and I had no social following. Just good people doing good stuff. So I appreciate that probably more than anything!
love it, great info thank you! Merry Christmas Drew
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Good content as usual. Would like to say thanks for sharing. Also wish you and your family a merry Christmas and best fishes for the New Year.
Thanks Mike! Merry Christmas!
Thanks for a Stupendous Year of Content Drew
Enjoy a Wonderful Christmas 🎄
✨🎣💫
Thank you!
Boom Awesome stuff! I have a 4 weight as well. I love how you can see in your videos all of the strikes using the indicator secondary fly, although you seem to hook quite a few on that fly.
Yea, my top shelf hopper puts a few in the net and acts as a great indicator dry too!
I have seen the videos with the smaller rod, 7.5 3w. I went and bought one and it works really well with the small streams.
Good stuff, Drew.
Great video Drew!! I have 3 of the 4 here in Idaho and love them. You are right on!! Will check into the 7’6” for sure!! Merry Christmas brother!! Stay safe!!
Right on! Merry Christmas man! You as well.
Enjoy those instruction videos. Thanks.
Glad you like them!
I really like an 8ft 6 in 5 wt I have it is very accurate short distance great rod
Great info man. I appreciate you sharing.
Any time!
I’m pretty close to what you do. 7 1/2 ft 3wt, 8ft 4wt, 9ft 4wt. 8 1/2ft 5wt, 9ft 5wt and lastly a 9ft 6wt. Is what I take out west. The 8ft 4wt and 3wt are my go to rods in the driftless area along with a 7 1/2ft 5wt. The short 5wt is a decent little streamer rod for the driftless, works for mouse patterns after dark too. Have a wonderful holiday.
Thank u and happy holidays!
Cool, not far off my setups:
6.5' - 2 wt (I've landed fish up to 17" with this rod, with quick enough fights even on 6x tippet. This is my go to around North Georgia)
8.5' - 4 wt (just got this rod, I anticipate this will become my go-to for my 2 month trip to Idaho next summer)
9.5' - 6 wt (streamers, nymphing on big streams)
If I planned on any serious time strictly big water nymphing, I might prefer a 10' 3 wt to the 6 wt, but it doesn't come up much in GA.
Awesome, everyone has their favorites!
Cool video. I totally agree with the 10ft to have line control . Mending and reach. I have a Scott fiber touch F series 7’2 3wt total noodle but have been sling out single nymph rigs. Have a few 10ft rods for big water 5 and 6 wt’s have a 8ft 4wt. Have used them all a lot over the yrs. Love your videos. Especially the way you hit the pools and and seams. Hope you have a great holiday season. Due for another red fish video aren’t you? 😂
Been watching the weather everyday for a month...nothing good yet. Plus my favorite area was destroyed by a hurricane so not sure I'll get one in before Feb.
i am very grateful for your content. it is helpful
Glad to share how I do it!
I pretty much fish exclusively with my 7 and 1/2 foot rod. It is big enough to handle bigger fish and as you note, easier to use on small streams, which I prefer.
More of these please!!!
Noted, thank u!
Great info…..well done video. thank you
Thanks Pard.
My quiver is:
8ft - 3wt (creek/small river rod)
8.5ft - 6wt (nymphing, dry flies to bigger fish, smaller streamers)
9ft - 8wt (big streamers, I fish alpine lakes a lot so it's nice for roll casting with trees everywhere)
Cool to hear what works for others!
Great advice!!
Try to add some in occasionally!
Awesome video, my thoughts are the same but instead of a 7’6” I run a 7’ but hey what’s 6” between friends lol
Great Advice, Thank You
Thanks Drew, was debating a 4wt 9' or a 10', definitely getting a 4wt 10'. I'm in Colo, and fish Wyoming alot, definitely need that 6wt for the Mighty North Platte and that wind! Tight lines! 👊🏽
Guided on the N. Platte for 30 yrs. Have three sage RPL Nine foot 4# 6# #8
Great advice! Very practical. :-)
Once again great video! What like do you prefer for your 1004? I picked up a Scott Centric and currently have a Rio Gold but am curious what you prefer. Guys at the shop tried to sell me a euro line but I don’t want to be pigeon holed into euro nymphing. Thanks!
My wife and I switched to fly fishing last year and we’re loving it. We both have 9’ 5wt Orvis set ups for fishing the white (cotter, Flippin, etc.. as well as below Beaver). I enjoy fishing the smaller creeks around here for bass and perch (think Crooked Creek). I was looking at getting a 7’6 3wt for that. What are your thoughts?
The 5 is what I use most on ozark smallies. A 3 is light for throwing any weighted streamers or deer hair bugs.
@@LooknFishy good to know. Thank you.
What rods did you use in the Driftless area? Thanks for the great videos and Merry Christmas!
These in the video. 7.5ft 3wt mostly. Can see where the 8.5ft 4wt might become my go to! Merry Christmas!
I haven't ventured into the over 9' rod market yet. Maybe that'll be my next rod🤔 Ive got a 7.5' 3wt, 8.5' 4wt and 9' 5wt. I do need a good streamer rod though, and I'd like something to go after pike with maybe an 8wt. Damnit.... This is getting expensive 🤣
you convinced. I now have a 7.5 inch 4 weight, a 9 ft 5 wt and a ten foot 5 weight that I can mix and match to my needs...I have a 5 weight but that is for bass..
Makes a lot of sense. If I were starting over I might go 8.5ft 4wt, not the standard 9ft 5wt that I have. Not sure though the difference is enough to go out and replace my perfectly functional 9ft 5wt. I have a 10ft 3wt I love for nymphing or even small streamers or dries. My next might be a 7.5 ft 3wt, don't have anything in that range now. Nice video.
I used to use that 2&3 weight shit creekin but found out pretty quick it's virtually useless to cast when high winds arise and when a surprise thumps that 3 wt tearing off fly line then making a beeline underneath a root wad, snapping you off like whispy sewing thread. Save your money and just use your 4 weight. It's light enough where it's still a fun battle on small fish yet stout enough to make serviceable casts in gusty winds and landing your surprises briskly without killing them critters from over exhaustion 😪
How do you transport your rods? Have you considered a roof mounted rack like the Ultimate Rod Rack, a homemade version, or something similar?
I have a rod locker with 4 spots that I normally use. But wasn't able to get a roof rack before my summer trip so I just keep one or 2 broken in half stored in my folded up back seat.
Great video!
Thank you!
Hey Drew. Thanks for your input. What brands/models are your fly rods?
Hey Drew, thanks. Love the info. How do you like the vice you have on your bench if I may ask?
I dig it. Does everything I need and will hold hooks 2/O to 24 ish w/o much trouble.
@@LooknFishy The reason I ask is because I own and use the same vice and I love it too. Thanks again. Stay safe out there.
Hi Drew. Can you comment on what weight line you use with your rods? For instance, do you over line your 4 wt by putting 5 wt line on your reel? Thanks. I'm from Colorado and it is a wise thing to bring a heavier wt rod with you, simply because of the wind. Too many times I've watched my fishing friends get their 4wt lines thrown all over the place by the wind here. I've enjoyed your series of videos and I appreciate the time and effort you put into producing them.
I use the appropriate weight for the rod. Imo, overling negatively impacts presentation which is most important to me. If I needed a heavier rod for wind I'd bring it instead, just how I do it.
Was that a really dark cutthroat at 3:30 into the video. My nephew caught one last summer that was exactly like that and we were not 100% sure that it was a cutthroat.
What line ya using/recommend for a 7’ 3wt creeks and ponds?
I have a 8"4' 3wt for for small creeks and lakes and a 9" 7wt for trout on streamers, bass on streamers/poppers and fishing the San Diego bay with a sink tip. Im able get it all done with those two rods.
I don't have a set-up. But have been watching tons of mixed content. What do you suggest I should be looking into as a beginner in Idaho?
8.5f or 10ft 4wt....but depends on the water u see most. With the 10ft you'll be able to high stick runs and not worry with mending as much. This will ease some of the frustration. With that said, the 8.5ft was what I used most in ID. This vid shows which and why I chose the rod based on water type! The 10ft 4wt is my go to for almost everything
Thank you
Anytime!
I have learned so much. I live in Colorado and you were fishing some streams I would have passed on. Waiting for the season. Question, Where you from? I don't want your address just what state? You mentioned "out west".
You found streams much more than I have here (embarrassed) Going to southern Wyoming. Any recommendations on fly shops?
I actually live in Arkansas. Fortunately, my life decisions allow for chasing experiences rather than possessions!
I agree with the 7' 6" #3 wt, I have one & it's perfect on headwater streams. I agree with every thing you said about that weight & length.
I don't have any 10' or #4 rods. I have 2 #5 9' rods but have often thought one with and extension section wound be very versatile. I have seen them but not for some years now.
Hey, I was wondering, how far can you cast with the 7' 6'' #3 wt rod?
I need to cast max 40 feet. Can I do it?
Super helpful video! I have been considering getting a 10’ 3wt but idk if it’s able to handle fish like a 10’ 4wt
Most 10' 3 wts and 4 wt are completely different weapons. The taper of the blanks are different. The 3 wts are more euro style tuned kinda like a fatter but section than most 3 wts but the tip is lighter. I'd say the 3 wt might handle a fish better if you fight it with the butt section, but might not be a better fishing tool for your style. I've caught small Atlantic Salmon and steelhead up to 7-8 lb range on 10' 2 and 3 wts while euro nymphing, it handled it no prob.
10ft 4 wt has been good to me everywhere I've been...White, Juan, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado etc!
What line are you using on your 10ft?
I live in ID and MT, and I use an 8ft4# more than anything.
thanks!!
Hey Drew what line are you using on the 4wt?
What brand or type of reels do you prefer?
Sehr schön,schöne Fische und Ein interesanter Film! Petri Heil! Super!
Thank u man...no idea what u said but you check in often and always positive!
@@LooknFishy that's how it is dear friend,i can't speak englisch.
@@LooknFishy Translates to.... "very nice, nice fishes and an interesting film! Goof Fishing! Super!"
Is the 8’6 4w a recon? I’m considering one of the those for my main trout rod. Currently have the Clearwater 9’0 5w and a 9’0 7w axiom II x for bass.
Why orvis rods? I know their reels are worth the extra $$ (I have 2x LT III's). I mean, does the feel justify the extra outlay on a top end rod when you're mostly fishing short?
I never mentioned any brands, just length and weight. Personally I like Orvis...their customer svc is top notch but to each their own...recommending brands is like recommending beer...no way to know what u like! But I wouldn't say I fish short mostly, got tons of videos where I'm casting at distance and throwing mends on my channel from this road trip and over the last 2 yrs. All with my 10ft 4wt h3f!
@@LooknFishy Orvis is a great company all around. Not one to glorify a brand, but Orvis is definitely deserving of praise.
@@LooknFishy A good beer haha that's a great way to put it! The White wrap is hard to miss on the Orvis. Having a some power in reserve is always good. Other hand I'm guilty of buying beers (and plenty of fly gear) that is overkill for the situation.
Most times when having my favorite beers I come home with a new ORVIS super fine !!
Brand rods/reels do you have or prefer?
I have a Helios 2 10' 4wt and can attest to its versatility.
Heard that one might be the best ever!
@@LooknFishy it is light in weight and gives me good reach when indicator nymphing. Merry Christmas!
How far can you cast with the 7 and a half feet rod?
Could you cast arround 40 ft? That's the maximum I've ever need to cast cause most of the rivers I fish in are at most 50 ft.
The White River in AK. The oldest woman I ever met lived in a cabin on the White River.
Can that 10’ 4 wt euro nymph effectively? I’m trying to get a big water nymphing rod that can still euro nymph well while also being able to cast indicator rigs with a simple change of spool when the situation calls for it. Also how does it fish dries and dry droppers?
Never tried euro but doubt it. It gets heavy high sticking...I'd compare it to a light 5wt. Definitely throws dries well...my dry fly paradise video is a good example. All of Idaho was dry/dropper!
I’ll take a rod like that too.. let me know if you find one.,!
You missed the 6’, my absolute favorite! Just about thrown everything else away!
Haha, everyone has a favorite best thing about fly fishing is not really a wrong way!
Your videos are great man. Really enjoy them.
So you fish all high end Orvis Rods and Reels. Do they sponsor you?
This video is about the length of rod I suggest, not about a particular brand. Recommending a brand is like suggesting a particular beer...everyone has their own taste and I happen to like orvis. Their customer svc is great. They repaired a broken 8.5ft recon in 2 days! Hope u enjoy the vids!
I am right there with you on these. I have 1-7wt rods but fish an 8’3” 4 wt 90% of the time. 1 wt I could give up any day. Worthless. Rarely grab a a 5+ unless big streams or streamers for browns/salmon.
Awesome! 4's definitely have my back!
At the risk of being redundant. Would that be a 9’ 6wt?
9.5ft 6wt lol! Like a little extra length for long leaders and heavy nymph rigs. Plus, I fish this a ton for bass in my kayak and 9.5ft clears the bow easily when fish run under the kayak!
If my budget is 100 and I need a rod and full reel do I give up on this hobby?
Are you from arkansas?
my 9 foot ,8 wt , IM 12 carbon is all I need ,it does it all never use my 5wt now IM12 carbon is what I recommend.
Hi Drew, Although I'm going to Belize in May, after watching your videos for the last week all I can think of right now are thin blue lines and trout opportunities in SW Colorado. In all fairness I fished the LMFR at Beaver's Bend and the Little Red in May of this year and that may have had something to do with my trout-fever. I picked up a copy of the Benchmark Atlas for Colorado and I'm going through every NF MVUM that I have looking for new routes to explore. I want to add a small stream rod to those that I'll be taking to Colorado this June. I'm interested in a Grey's 3wt that is available in the US again but it is only available in a 7' length. Do you think the 6" loss in reach would be significant enough that I should consider other mfgs that offer a 7'6" graphite rod? My shortest rod right now is 9'.
No, I think 7ft would be solid. Anything 7 to 8 would give plenty of reach and still allow u to fish longer leaders as needed.
I was gifted two 8'6" fly rods one's #6 the other is #8
Thanks, ;-)
Hey I'm going to post a video to my channel of my first time fly fishing and casting I'd really appreciate if you could give me some pointers awesome video thanks for sharing the info I'm fishing with a 7-ft four weight rod
2022
Preferred reels?
Anyone …
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You have lost weight, Drew..
Dropped a 5wt now I'm mostly in the 4wt range lol!
i still don't understand what's big fish what's the small fish, if you think that is the small fish go fish in ocean whales and sharks...
The he is looking and acting fishy