Rods

On a recent fishing trip, I watched in horror as $1,200 worth of fly rod and reel flipped over the side and sank. It was then that I realized my fly-fishing habit was growing much too expensive. So I searched for the best value fly rod and reel that would get me back on the water for under $400, which-in the sticker-shock world of fly-fishing-qualifies as a steal. Here's a rod and reel combo that's worked well for me.

Tips for finding the right travel rod.

With a quick flick of my wrist the nose-hooked live mullet flew a solid 60 feet and landed with a soft plop thanks to my Offshore Angler Inshore Extreme casting rods springy tip. I immediately felt the gray trout's gentle bite in the rod's reflexive HM-54 graphite blank. As I reared back the quick action provided a solid hookup while the rod's backbone prevented the trout from wrapping around a piling. Game over for that lunker. Featuring a cork grip, green and gold wrapping, and Fuji components, it's one hell of bargain. The only thing I didn't like? The lack of a hook holder.