DI
I can’t tell you what rod to buy because it depends on many variables. But I can give you advice.
1. What do you want the rod to do for you? Streamers, dry flies only, swinging small flies or maybe nymph fishing. Buy a rod that can handle different fishing requirements than your old rod.
2. What will a new rod do for you that maybe your old rod doesn’t. i.e. do you want a totally different rod?
3. Just because you have a 5 weight rod already doesn’t mean you can’t buy another 5 weight. A medium taper 9ft, 5 wt is different than a fast taper 9ft, 5wt. But with a 5 wt already you may want to have a 3 or 4 wt. But remember always fall back on the type of fishing that you want to do.
4. Do you want a different weight rod? But you must know why you do. i.e. what type of fishing can you do better with a different weight rod?
5. ALWAYS cast the rod you are thinking of buying to make sure you like it. DON’T go by advertisements or rod companies endorsements. Pick the rod that is right for you. Do you want long casts, accurate casts, or short accurate casts. Do you want a specific rod (nymphing rod) or all around rod?
6. Watch your budget. Just because a rod costs $700 doesn’t mean that it’s the best for you.
7. Do stick with a good company with a good warranty. A lifetime warranty is valuable – I have used them many times!
8. Good luck and I hope that others respond with their choices!!
