I have been doing some serious research on different options for a travel rod that I can safely and economically pack for those trips back to New York to see family or when Michelle and I are bouncing around on one of our adventures. A post over on the Fiberglass Manifesto about a small fiberglass travel rod caught my eye, and I started to do a little research. The small 6’6″ rod is sold by Black Bear Fly Fishing and is labeled for a 2/3 weight line. What really caught my eye is the fact that this pretty fly rod breaks down into 8 pieces, essentially into 11″ pieces. I loved the price tag and after calling Tom, the owner of Black Bear Fly Fishing and talking a bit about the rod, I placed my order. The rod showed up a few days later on my doorstep and I could hardly contain myself as I put the rod together and gave it the standard wiggle test. I’m looking forward to getting it on the water, but already I am anticipating throwing some extremely soft dries to very hungry trout.
Uh-oh. You’re screwed now. I’ve been avoiding fiberglass and bamboo like the plague. I’m having enough trouble controlling my graphite budget…
I know Mike. But Howard is right. This rod is pretty reasonably priced. I’m interested to see how it fishes. I’ll keep everyone posted after I get a few small streams under my belt.
Ben
For an old guy line me, I’d have to have the pieces numbered so I could get them in the right order. Just kidding. Nice idea for traveling.
Mark
I hear you Mark. For a relatively young guy like me, it did take a minute to get things fitted right. Hopefully it will be the ticket for traveling back east or anywhere on a plane. A four piece isn’t bad, but sometimes it’s a bit annoying. This thing will fit anywhere.
Ben
Ben, tell Mike how much that rod costs compared to a similar rod in graphite or cane!
I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the price tag. I hope that I am pleasantly surprised by the way it fishes too. Thanks Howard.
Ben
Howard, if fiberglass rods became an “instead of” alternative, the attractive price would be good. But, knowing me, it would be come an “in addition to” situation and, cheap or not, be more out of pocket. I have no self control…
That looks sweet. One concern I’ve heard with travel rods is that the action is funky b/c of all the ferrules. I’ll be interested tohear how this thing fishes. The price looks right if it’s any good.
purty. not long ago I didn’t have any fiberglass rods. now I’ve got three. none of which can nor ever likely will stand in for bamboo. I do right like them though. that wee rod will be a mutha in the wind…
Slick looking rod. I’ve been wanting a small travel rod, but am afraid to branch out from graphite. Can’t wait to hear how it fishes.
I’ll probably have a review up in a couple of months and let everyone know the skinny on this rod, but after a few times out, I’ll probably give a short update on how I like it. Thanks Nick.
Ben
Let us know how it feels compared to graphite. Inquiring minds want to know.
I’ll keep you posted Barry. I’m hoping this little stick is going to be perfect for some of those Rim country streams.
Ben
I just went to Black Bear’s website and saw the price. “Pretty reasonably priced” is a mild understatement. Might have to pick one up and see how it compares with my 6’6″, 2 wt graphite. I’ll look forward to the review!
Agreed Mike. I felt that at that price I could take a chance and see how it fished for me. I’m very interested to see how it fishes.
Ben
yes! I bought a fiberglass rod last year, and it has become my favorite rod by far. Have fun with the new weapon…cheers!
They sure are cool. I’m excited to see how it fishes. Thanks Sanders.
Ben
Any thoughts on this rod? Been awhile and the rod showed up on my radar again. Curious if you are still using it?
It’s a great fly rod because it packs down so small. It is super noodley and great on a small stream throwing dries. In my opinion, it’s a steal for the price and a really fun on small water. I took it to Europe and stowed it in a pack the whole trip. Here’s the water I fished there – http://azwanderings.com/fly-fishing-france-the-manor-malvoisine/ Hope that helps.
Ben