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When new to fishing, fly anglers can get overwhelmed by the variety and options on the market.
How do they choose the best trout fly rod as a newbie? Not to mention, the high-tech names have made things harder, making it harder to choose from the assortment of options.
When it comes to fishing for a specific fish, a trout in our case, how do we go about making the choice? Trout fishing has become common as lakes are regularly provided with rainbow trout. In addition to the other species, such as the cutthroat, brook, and brown trout anglers are provided with an increasing number of opportunities to fish. To take advantage of the large supply, you need to equip yourself with the best trout fly rod.
Disclaimer: All products in this guide are independently researched by our team. We only recommend products we believe in and never get paid for the reviews. Learn more about our review process here.
Table of Contents:
An Introduction to Trout Fly Rods
10 Best Trout Fly Rods Quick Answer List
Best Single Hand Fly Rods for Trout Reviewed
5 wt as the Gold Standard of Trout Fly Rods
5wt fly rods are the most common and popular weight class for anglers. It can be used to fish for a variety of species but is commonly used for trout. You can opt to buy a 4wt as well, which is slightly smaller than a 5wt but works to fish for small bass and carp. The versatility of a 5wt, however, is unmatched.
To help you out, we have created a guide to help you understand how to choose the Best Fly Rods for Trout available in 2023. We have identified the three top products for different levels of anglers to help you make the right choice.
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10 Best Trout Fly Rods Quick Answer List
1. Best Value for Money: Redington Classic Trout 9’ 5wt
2. Best Beginner: Fenwick Aetos 9’ 5wt
3. Best Newcomer: Moonshine The Revival Series
4. Best Intermediate: Orvis Clearwater 9’ 5wt
5. Best Mid-Range: Douglas DXF 9’ 5wt
6. Best Allrounder: Echo Trout
7. Best Traditional: Hardy Wraith FWS 9’5wt
8. Best Performance: Douglas Sky G Series 9’ 5wt
9. Best Premium: Sage R8 Core
10. Most exclusive: G. Loomis Asquith 9’ 5wt
Entry Level Trout Fly Rods
In the first part of this ultimate buyer’s guide to the best fly rod for trout, we’ll be looking at entry level products that come in at under $250. The great thing about these trout fly rods is that they won’t break the bank but still offer great quality.
Redington Classic Trout 9’ 5wt
Why we picked it:
In the midst of all the expensive (and yes, even overpriced) options, the Redington Classic Trout 9’ 5wt stands out as one of the lowest-priced options. The rod is perfect for beginners and like most of the rods from the parent company, Far Bank Enterprises, it loads smoothly.
The trout fly rod bends well, easy at the tip, getting stiffer towards the handles. The Redington Classic Trout 9’ 5wt weighs just 2.9 ounces, and its design gives it a lux appearance. An entry level rod that you can easily fish for a few years.
Pros:
– Classic, traditional looks
– Lightweight
– Rosewood reel seat gives the rod a high-end feel
Cons:
– Moderate action is on the slower end, especially for beginners
Fenwick Aetos 9’ 5wt
Why we picked it:
Fenwick has been producing fishing rods since the 50s. Chances are your grandfather may have used a Fenwick back in his days just as you do now. This low-priced model is built for functionality.
The Fenwick Aetos 9’ 5wt has a reverse half wells fly grip and the handle is made of cork. The rod weighs around 3.44 ounces, which is a bit heavy for a 5wt but is perfect for the occasional cast. We found the fast action to be forgiving enough for beginners and intermediates.
Pros:
– High-end black finish
– Line up dots make putting it together easy
– 5-year warranty is a plus in this price range
Cons:
– Lacks a bit of stamina for cast above 50ft
Moonshine Co. The Revival Series 8’ 5wt
Why we picked it:
This fiberglass stick produced by Moonshine Rod Company has made a recent comeback. A medium-fast rod, the Moonshine Co. The Revival Series 8’ 5wt loads smoothly. Its name is indicative of a much more classic look, which is improved upon by adding some of the conveniences from today.
A fibreglass fly rod is not for everyone because of its slower action. On the upside glass rods provide supreme presentation capacities and a lot of fly anglers don’t go back to fibreglass once they tasted glass. If you want to learn more about fibreglass fly rods, make sure to check our Ultimate Guide to the Best Fiberglass Fly Rod.
Pros:
– Individualistic look
– Beautiful wooden reel seat
– Medium-fast action is ideal for delicate presentations
Cons:
– Slower glass action takes some getting used to for novices
Orvis Clearwater 9’ 5wt
Why we picked it:
The Orvis Clearwater may be on the lower end of the prices, but is a match for tough competition. The rod can be purchased with a reel and line and is a great rod for anglers of any skill set. We found the Orvis Clearwater not to be the lightest in the test, but the medium-fast rod, with its soft tip, does a great job of tippet protection, which will be valued by beginners.
The Orvis Clearwater comes in a variety of size and weight options. If you are looking for an allrounder go for the 9′ 5wt 4 pc. If you are mostly fishing small creeks and want to have fun even when catching smaller trout, you can opt for the 3wt.
Pros:
– Orvis guarantee
– Forgiving action
– Can be purchased as a combo
Cons:
– Not the lightest trout rod out there
Best Mid-Range Trout Fly Rods
In this second part of this review, we’ll take a look at mid-range trout fly rods which are great choices if you’ve left the beginner’s stages of fly fishing but don’t (yet) want to spend a fortune on a high-end one.
Douglas DXF Fly Rod 9’ 5wt
Why we picked it:
Fly rods can get lost in the sea of other mid-priced rods, but Douglas Outdoors is known for making some of the best ones. The Douglas DXF 9’ 5wt rod is impressive because of the attention they gave to details that pair well with their price tag.
The Douglas DXF 9’ 5wt feels crisp during casting, no matter what you tie at the end of it, making it even simple for novice casters to deal with. The weight of the rod can be a burden, after a full day of fishing. Still clearly one of our mid-range favourites.
Pros:
– Classic looks with attention to detail
– Lifetime guarantee
Cons:
– Fast action rod is not for every trout angler
Echo Trout Fly Rod
Why we picked it:
The Echo Trout is a new mid-range rod from the American manufacturer that is meant to cover a lot of fishing situations you might encounter when hunting trout, ranging from nymphing to casting dry flies and streamers. The Echo Trout can do it all – with ease. This rod shines in the mid-range distances when accuracy and precision are required. Most intermediate fly fishermen and women often fish in the 30-50 yard range and that’s what this rod is built for.
The Echo Trout features components of high-end rods such as an anodised reel seat. The blue accent color gives it a fresh and modern look. If you are looking for an allrounder, go for the 9’0 #5. If you’re into nymphing you might consider going for the slightly longer 9’6″ #6 weight, which can also handle bigger streamers well.
Pros:
– Echo guarantee
– Medium-fast action can handle multiple fishing situations
Cons:
– Not the easiest one to cast for beginners
Hardy Wraith FWS 9’5wt
Why we picked it:
The Hardy Wraith FWS 9’5wt resembles the older Hardy Zenith (one of our trout favourites in recent years) in fit and feel, but under the label, it describes how the rod was constructed. The rod weighs around 3 ounces, which is light enough when you cast it.
The Hardy Wraith FWS 9’5wt can travel far, very fast, and is one of the most accurate when compared to other fast rods. It doesn’t work quite as well under 30 feet, but when you cross 40, the rod works like magic. At 60 feet, it’s even better. Plus, the attention to detail of Hardy (rod tube and cloth) is unmatched.
Pros:
– High-end components across the board
– Aluminum rod tube
– Fuji Sic stripping guides for ultimate lightweight and strength
Cons:
– Extra fast action is not ideal for delicate presentations
High-End Fly Rods for Trout
In this last part of the big trout fly rod report we want to focus on high-end rods. These are the best trout fly rods out there on the market. Yes, they are expensive but these are rods with a strong focus on performance and built quality. Hence, they will last you longer and accompany you on your adventures for years to come.
Douglas Sky G Series 9’ 5wt
Why we picked it:
The Douglas Sky G Series 9’ 5wt was touted as one of the best trout fly rods on the market, and maybe even of all time in several shootouts. The rod’s blank is made of Graphene, which is one of the strongest materials in the world. But with just 5% of the density of steel, it is also very light.
That makes the Douglas Sky G Series 9’ 5wt the strongest and lightest fly rod in the market. It weighs just 2.85 ounces and has the lightest swing weight. At a distance, the medium-fast rod isn’t too powerful but makes up for it in terms of accuracy. At short distances, under 30 feet, or long distances, over 45, it maintains its accuracy.
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Sage R8 Core
Why we picked it:
For the season, American manufacturer Sage premieres its brand new R8 Core. As a #5 fly rod, the R8 Core shines as it combines lightweight and power. The company’s Core technology ensures a fast-action combined with incredible feel. It’s a great rod to combine with a double taper fly line as it brings out its characteristics in a beautiful and smooth manner.
Yes, at more than $1,000 the R8 Core is expensive but it lives up to its promise to deliver a superior performance. Premium components such as at Fuji ceramic stripping guides add to the high-end feel of this rod. A Ziricotta wood insert at the reel seat gives the Sage R8 Core a classic yet modern look. The anodised aluminum used for the reel seat ensures that you can use the rod in saltwater as well if you are after species such as sea trout or sea-run cutthroat.
An aluminum rod tube makes sure your Sage R8 Core stays protected no matter the fall. In case you break something, Sage provides a lifetime warranty for the first owner.
Pros:
– Takes casting performance to a new level
– Highly packable thanks to slender rod tube
– Lifetime warranty
Cons:
– We didn’t find any. Yes, it’s expensive but worth every penny.
G. Loomis Asquith 9’ 5wt
Why we picked it:
The G. Loomis Asquith 9’ 5wt is one of the most unique high-end fly rods in the market. It is easily the lightest and most advanced fly rod which is one of the reasons why it’s so expensive. The Asquith provides anglers with a balance between power and feel. The rod works well at short and long ranges.
The rod’s blanks are rolled out on special Spiral X platforms that are only available in Japan. The final product, assembled in the USA, is very stable, which makes it very accurate. The stability reduces the stress, which makes the cast sensitive and gives the rod its pinpoint precision. The Asquith is 15% lighter than other ones, making it very easy to handle. The fast-action fly rod is able to produce high power to increase the line speed while maintaining its accuracy. It works perfectly in windier conditions and over long distances, which makes it an impeccable trout fly rod.
Pros:
– Traditional, classic looks with bamboo reel seat
– Very lightweight
– Aluminum rod tube
Cons:
– Casting performance does not quite match the Sage Core R8’s
Best Trout Spey Rods
Now that you’ve got a good overview of classic single hand trout fly rods from all price and performance ranges, we want to also give you a quick overview of so-called trout spey rods. This style of fly rods has become increasingly popular in recent years since it provides a relaxed and effortless way of fishing for trout especially on wider rivers. The trout spey technique is based on classic salmon spey styles but uses lighter and shorter rods. More and more manufacturers are getting into the game increasing your options to choose from.
Learning to use a two-handed rod can take the time to get used to. The jargon can be confusing and you may feel intimidated. Depending on the rod you start with, your experience at spey casting can either be frustrating or fun. Learning to spey cast with a trout spey rod is quite easy. You should consult a local instructor to learn the basics and can then practice on your own. We’re pretty sure you’ll like this kind of trout fishing. Here are a few quality trout spey rods to consider.
Echo Trout Spey Fly Rod 11’ 4wt
Why we picked it:
The Echo Trout Spey 11’ 4wt is one of the best spey rods in the market and on the lower end of the price range. The new model is vastly improved. The weight of the rod is a bit on the heavier side but is almost unnoticeable during use on the water. When you use the Skagit setup, the echo works wonderfully. The smooth rod can easily compete with the higher-priced products on the market. It is a well-balanced rod that offers amazing features without the price tag.
At 11′ the Echo Trout Spey does offer reserve power even when going for the long cast. The design of the rod is sleek and simple, meant to offer functionality. This mid-priced trout spey fly rod is purpose-driven and a great entry into the world of trout spey rods.
Pros:
– Great intermediate trout spey rod with forgiving action
– Elegant, minimalistic design
Cons:
– Doesn’t quite have the punch of the OPST
OPST Micro Skagit Trout Spey 10’4” 5wt
Why we picked it:
The OPST Micro Skagit two-handed rods have been designed to work with single-handed casts and double-handed casts as well. Whether you are on foot, finding your way through small and medium rivers, or fishing off a boat, the hybrid rod should be a part of your arsenal. The rod took five years to develop and is proof of Ed Ward’s vision.
The handles of the OPST Micro Skagit Trout Spey 10’4” 5wt are cigar-styled and offer a good grip on the rod. Its shorter length makes it perfect for overhead casting as well. This allows you to swing with a Skagit head, or opt for a dry fly line. The medium-fast action trout spey rod is perfect for trout and even smaller fish. Make sure to read our in depth review of this fantastic rod.
Pros:
– Highly versatile rod, can be cast double-hand or single-hand
– Works great with the integrated shooting head from OPST
Cons:
– An aluminum tube would be fitting for this gem of a rod
Sage Trout Spey HD – 11’3” 4wt
Why we picked it:
Sage’s new Trout Spey HD – 11’3” 4wt showcases the benefits of the brand’s Konnetic HD technology. The rod is lighter, more responsive, and more sensitive to an angler’s movements. The rod’s conifer blank, the Vera wood reel seat, and the full-wells cork handle make the rod stylish, yet functional.
The Sage Trout Spey HD – 11’3” 4wt weighs 4.44 ounces and has a considerably higher swing weight than other rods. However, due to the downlocking reel seat, the rod feels much lighter in the hand. It is a powerful rod. In fact, it is easily one of the most powerful trout spey rods in the market. The rod works well with experts as you need to get the timing right to shoot more line. For an experienced angler, this rod is the best one in the market.
Pros:
– Made in the USA
– Classic brown finish
– Sage guarantee
Cons:
– Not the ideal rod if you are just getting started with trout spey fishing
Best Trout Fly Rod Combos
If you are new to fishing, figuring out what the right setup is can seem daunting. In this case, you can opt for trout fly rod combos. The combo includes the rod and reel, the line, backing, and a tapered leader as well.
Junky combos do exist in the market and may include poor-quality components. But as time has passed, brands have released worthy combos that can be purchased. It is a lot of variety available online. But the increasing variety can make it tougher to choose what’s best for you. We have found two of the best combos in the market to make matters simpler for you.
Redington Trout Fly Rod Combo 590-4
Why we picked it:
The Redington Fly fishing combo comes with a rod and reel, a case to hold it, a fly line, fly line backing, and a tapered leader. The combo comes with a CROSSWATER 905-4 rod that is built beautifully, with absolutely no blemishes. The rod alone costs under $100, which makes the combo’s price much more attractive. The cork grip is comfortable and the glossy blue blank makes the rod look pricy.
The CROSSWATER reel is made of polymer and is smooth to the touch. The reel comes with a spoked design. This medium-fast action rod is perfect for beginners. Once you practice with it, the rod casts wonderfully. It cast well at all distances and got smoother at long distances. The cost of the separate components would set you back around $200. So, for just $140, this trout fly rod combo is one of the best out there.
Pros:
– Great for travels thanks to integrated reel cover
– Fantastic value for money
– Good grip
Cons:
– Not for the experienced fly fisher
Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit
Why we picked it:
The Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit has been one of the best trout fly rod combos in the market for years. The combo comes with a rod, reel, line, and backing. The cost of the combo is higher than many others but is well worth it. The Clearwater rod is a medium-fast action rod that is softer. The 9′ 5wt Clearwater rod is very flexible and offers high cast accuracy at medium to longer distances. The rod is made of black chrome blanks that make it look very luxurious along with a cork handle.
The Clearwater reel’s disc drag system is smooth and solid. The large arbor design helps to reel the line in faster and feels very light. The quality of the components is well above the price tag, which makes this trout fly rod combo a superb steal.
Pros:
– Set includes everything but flies
– Orvis guarantee
– Great as a gift
Cons:
– A few flies would round-off this set
Conclusion on the Best Trout Fly Rods 2023
A trout fly rod is probably the most important fly rod in a fly fisherman’s arsenal and most likely the first fly rod you’ll own since you can fish for trout basically all across the globe. As we explained in this big buyer’s guide, a 5 weight fly rod is the way to go if you’re looking for an allrounder.
If you’ll only be fishing smaller streams and creeks, you can go for a #4 or even #3 fly rod for trout. Should your focus be on nymphing, the go for a slightly longer rod in the 10 to 11 ft range since these will give you an extra bit of range needed for this technique. If you want to up your game and explore trout spey casting, go for a light double-handed rod in the #3 to #4 range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best fly rod for trout fishing?
The best fly rod for trout fishing is a single hand 5 weight fly rod. 5 weight fly rods, often also called #5, are the gold standard when it comes to fly fishing trout. They usually come in a length of 9 feet. With such a rod you’ll be prepared for almost any trout fishing situation.
What makes a good trout fly rod?
Important features of a good trout fly rod are its length, action and backbone. The standard length for a trout fly rod is 9ft. The most common action nowadays is a medium fast action. This means that the fly rod’s blank does not flex all the way down to the handle (as a slow action would) making it easy for beginners and intermediates to cast with precision. The third aspect is the backbone of the rod which translates into its power when hooked into a big fish. Since trout are a powerful fish you need some strength in your rod to play and land them safely.
Is a 4 or 5 wt fly rod better for trout?
Generally speaking a #5 fly rod is ideal for trout fishing since it can handle almost any situation and has enough backbone to handle bigger fish. That being said, a #4 can be a great choice if you’re only fishing smaller rivers and streams for trout and want an extra bit of sensitivity. In that case you should go for the #4 rod.
