How to Chose a Fly Rod for Steelhead

Fly rod selection is an important aspect of steelhead fishing. Choosing the best rod for the job depends on the type of steelhead waters you fish. Single-hand rods are adequate for many rivers, but two-hand switch and spey rods are common for open-waters fishing. Rod choice also depends on the average size of the fish, average distance of the cast and the skill level of the angler. Beginning steelhead anglers will choose a good all-round rod and add more rods to their collection as the need becomes apparent.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the rod based on the average river size and casting ability. Small rivers like the Trinity in northern California are ideal for a single-hand rod, while large rivers of the Northwest U.S. and British Columbia require a two-hand spey rod. The switch rod uses a short second handle and provides a compromise for fishing a variety of rivers.

    • 2

      Choose a rod based on the casting style required in your river system. Choose a single-hand rod for open rivers with room to back-cast ,and choose a spey rod for rivers with steep and brushy banks. The switch rod is capable of powerful roll casting and back-casting.

    • 3

      Use a single-hand rod for drift-boat and raft fishing. Use the oars to position the boat in a manner that does not require a long-distance cast.

    • 4

      Select the rod weight based on the fish size and casting power required. The eight-weight rod is used for most hatchery steelhead that do not exceed 30 inches in length. Rods in the 10- to 12-weight range are ideal for power-casting on large rivers and playing fish in excess of the 30 inches.

    • 5

      Select the rod length based on the reach and leverage required. Also base the length on the weight to build a comfortable outfit. Single-hand rods under 10 feet are comfortable for roll and back-casting while switch and spey rods range from 10 to 15 feet in length.