New rod suggestions

[lonekimono]

Hello everyone. I'm thinking about getting a new fly fishing rod. I have 2 orvis tls power matrix rods that I'm thinking of either trading in or selling. I think at this point. most newer rods would be an upgrade? Any thoughts or recommendations. Looking for a 5wt. Mostly nymph fishing and some small streamers. I was looking at the orvis recon. I think the price of the recon is high. I'm not looking to spend 3 or 4 hundred if I can get something for less that is going to be similar in quality. Thanks.

 

[krayfish2]

I'm not familiar with the TLs. Is it a stiff or fast rod? What kind of rod action do you prefer?

 

[gfenlikestolosepasswords]

That's back when Orvis had their "flex index." There's probably a number, likely between 4 and 9, on each rod that was supposed to correlate to where they put the action. 9 would be extreme tip flex, 4 would be full flex.

People tell me the new Clearwaters are hard to beat for the price. I dunno, my crap is all old and I haven't touched a new rod in years.

 

[lonekimono]

I would say a moderate fast action. It is labeled on the case what the flex is. 1 is a tip flex and 1 is a mid flex

 

[ROVERT]

I've since added a couple of more expensive rods but I fished with an Aetos for quite a while. My son uses it now and I honestly wouldn't feel hindered using it instead of my Loomis or Orvis.

 

[lonekimono]

I definitely ok with rods that are not expensive but at least have a backbone and some quality. There isn't many options to go and try different rods. Most shops don't have a verity of rods in stock to try. Most are limited to orvis

 

[jifigz]

TFO or Redington both seem to be fine enough quality to me.

 

[dudemanspecial]

I am a Redington fan for budget rods as well. I have the Pursuit, my first real fly rod and still the only 9' 5w I own. It changed names to Path and now I think its called Wrangler, not sure if its the same exact specs. Its on the fast side of medium fast, good all around rod for the price.

 

[lonekimono]

I have/had a Redington classic trout that I did like but my son fell in love with so I let him have it.

 

[CRB]

With the current economy/trade crap going on I would lean to an Orvis Clearwater. They will stand behind the rod if you need wornentee work. Iam unsure how Redington/Farbank would as all are import rods from China/Asia.

 

[lonekimono]

Good point CRB. That is something I didn't take in consideration

 

[jifigz]

I have/had a Redington classic trout that I did like but my son fell in love with so I let him have it.

CT is easily one of the best cheap rods. I've had two, and both have been flawless. You could have another one for only $170 brand new!

 

[ROVERT]

I'm confident Orvis will take care of you on a Clearwater but they are also made in Asia.

I have three Redington Paths. I just broke one far more easily than I would have expected. I like them, though. I liked the one I broke the most, a 7'6"3wt. As far as the warranty goes, it would cost me more than I paid for the rod.

I have both a Path 9'5wt and an Aetos 9'5wt. An Aetos is $100-ish more but I think it would be worth it to me.

 

[poopdeck]

My Redington Classic Trout is my expensive rod. It’s a fantastic rod that will not disappoint. I have zero reason or desire to “upgrade” it. TFO signature series rods will do you just fine as well. I like Orvis Battenkill reels on both. All you need and more for PA trout fishing.

 

[dudemanspecial]

With the current economy/trade crap going on I would lean to an Orvis Clearwater. They will stand behind the rod if you need wornentee work. Iam unsure how Redington/Farbank would as all are import rods from China/Asia.

Clearwater = China

 

[wildtrout2]

Clearwater = China

And, the Encounter series. Both designed in the USA, but made overseas.

 

[lonekimono]

I will have to stop at my local fly shop and see what they have. I know he did carry redingtons at one time

 

[Kms]

Don’t forget to check the ’bay and FB mkt. There are plenty of excellent used rods around.

 

[lonekimono]

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the feedback

 

[jeffroey]

I consider myself a bit of a budget rod buyer. Before settling, it's worth looking at Taylor's Dynamix. I have Dynamix's in a few lengths and line weights. They all fish extremely well and the 9' 5wt is no exception. Worth looking at.

Grey's at discount prices like the ones you can find at Sierra are really good rods. I broke the tip on a 8.5' 5 wt GR80 I'm still sick about. Grey's replaced it under warranty w the newer wing streamflex for shipping/handling and that rod fishes great as well. Would still buy another GR80 if I can find one.

Redingtons CTs just come with street cred and respect. I had a couple over the years and love them especially since redington offers spare tip section for most for $25. I have the 803-6 PC w 2 spare tips strapped to my pack most trips. I've never fished the 9' 5wt but I've talked with folks that consider it a little swing heavy. UMMV.

Same w the Clearwater 9' 5 wt. Great all around rod no doubt. I have this in a 6pc that I dont reach for very much because it just feels a little swing heavy to me.

My two cents. Good luck.