Have you ever wondered what gear I use out on the river? What books does Jason have on his shelf that inspire him? Well, here it is.
This is a list of the different gear and resources I use to enjoy my time on the water.
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Everything here is gear that I use and believe in. That’s the way it will always be at WadeOutThere.
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Recommended Fly Rods
There are so many things that go into success on the river, but if we’re talking about the tools we take with us, it’s hard to argue that anything is more important than your choice of fly rod. One thing I’ve learned though is a fly rod has to be the right fit for you. That means not just the right length, weight, and flex, but also the right price. The type of water you fish and the species you fish for. I’m a trout fisherman in Utah, fishing mostly dry flies and nymphs under indicators. SomeHere are the rods that feel good for me.
Scott Session
The Scott Session is the successor to the Scott Flex (which is the rod I fish most.) Years ago a friend and guide recommended the Flex when I was looking to upgrade to a fly rod in the mid-price category. I have loved that rod since I walked out of the fly shop in Idaho. Since Scott discontinued the Flex I can’t recommend it, but Scott touts the Session as the spiritual successor to my go to trout stream fly rod. (Yes, I called them to confirm). The rod is smooth and solid with the perfect action for what I like. Not too fast, but definately not slow. This fly rod is juuuust right. I fish a Nine Foot, Five Weight.
Cortland Guide Series
When I finally upgraded from my “Walmart special”, this is the rod I fished for years. I still remember how much better it felt in my hand. It’s a budget friendly rod that will get the job done.
Recommended Fly Reels
I’ve changed my mind on fly reels. I used to think the reel was just a place to hold your line (and to some extent that’s still true). I fished a hand-me-down click and pawl Red Fly that my fly fishing mentor gifted me for over a decade. It became, as one fly shop owner remarked when I took it in for new fly line, “an old friend.” But the more I fish, the more I appreciate the value of a smooth drag and a durable reel when I’m on the river.
Lamson Remix
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been in a fly shop and heard them say, “for the money, Lamson is a great reel.” And I’m telling you the same thing. The Lamson Remix is sturdy reel, with a rock solid drag, that looks good too. If your looking for a workhorse, that will last for years, the Lamson Remix gets it done. The Lamson Liquid is also a good choice and a little more budget friendly.
Ross Animas
I love the free spooling feature of the reel that allows me to bring in line quick when I hook up with a wiley trout looking to leverage that slack line in a fight. It’s also a beautiful reel, and I love the sound of the smooth drag. It also has a larger arbor that reels line in faster. The feel, weight, and sound of the drag on this reel makes it my go to.