The 7 Best Fly Fishing Gear Online

Getting good fly fishing gear online can be like flipping a coin. Sure most companies have great return policies and accomodate quality concerns, but returning items is a hassle. Often if a simple recommendation and some endorsement for a quality brand or product your shopping and fishing experience can be so much better.

I’ve put together a little guide – paying attention to the details just like you look at everything before a fishing trip, including water temperature, river conditions, and bug activity. Let me help take some of the guess work out of shopping online for fly fishing gear with some great picks from Amazon

The Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Series Fly Fishing Rod is probably the best value fly rod available right now. If you’re ready for a “forever” fly rod that your buddies will drool over check out the Sage Trout LL Fly Rod. If a budget fly rod is on your list get the Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Combo (just add flies and water to catch fish) for a great value as it’s a completely tuned outfit.

If you want to learn more about some of the Ex best fly fishing guides online, include;

The 7 Best Fly Fishing Gear Online

1.   Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Series Fly Fishing Rod- Best Overall

There are very few ex-best gears that fly anglers worldwide patronize. One of them is the Drifter Series by Moonshine Rod Co. Sure, Moonshine Rod Co. is one of the key players in the industry, but this company has produced some of the best fishing gear in the market and the Drifter Series is no exception.

It became a hit in my fly fishing circle the first time it became available in 2018, so I had to get one and try it. The Drifter series has never disappointed me over the years; sure, I have fished with other models. But this option still stands out among other latest competitor models, which cost twice their price. Equally impressive, it comes with a lifetime warranty, so you will never have to worry about it breaking down. (source)

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Why Does It Stand Out Among Others?

Another thing that stands out is that it comes with a spare tip, which is uncommon even for the high-end options. And to give you peace of mind, it comes with portable canvas tubes that help you transport it from your home to the fishing destination. This canvas tube protects it from mud, water, dirt, and even bumps when transporting it.

Therefore, whether you’re a newbie or a skilled angler, this brand can help you catch your first fish. They are comfortable and can guarantee you an effortless casting experience. Therefore, you can use it to cast large flies to the desired spot on the water.

Specs

• Brand: Moonshine Rod Co.
• Action: fast
• Color: Matte Vintage brown
• Material: wood

Guide Tip: If the Drifter sounds interesting, check out what others are saying on Amazon reviews with this shortcut link 👉 Moonshine Fly Rod Drifter Series Fly Rod

Pros

• Durable
• It has a lifetime warranty
• Easy to use
• It comes with a portable canvas tube
• Fast action
• Sleek design

Cons

• Costly

Overall rating: 4.8 out of 5

2.   Sage Trout LL – Best Premium

If you loved the classic fly rods, you should try the Sage LL. This rod is a perfect reincarnation of the 1990s Sage’s Light Line series, but it has everything you will need to compete with anyone using the latest models. It’s a medium-sized action LL that loads smoothly at its midsection and even unrolls the line perfectly for an exceptional presentation.

I enjoyed casting it last year with my granddad while chasing a trophy cutthroat. I believe that they do stand on their own, even though they resemble the original Light Line series. And just like their predecessors, they’re so intuitive that any angler can feel them reload without even watching their backcast. (source)

I have never had any issue making tight technical casts with the Trout LL rods or even zipping the dry fly across a stream. Available in 3 to 6 weights, this rod will have you break the bank, but it is worth the price. And to create an exceptional and sleek fly fishing gear, you can pair it with Sage’s trout reel, and you’re good to go.

Specs

• Brand: Sage
• Color: Tannin
• Pieces: 4
• Line weight: ranges from 3 wt to 6 wt
• Material: walnut wood reel seat

Guide Tip: The Sage brand will give you that nod of approval from other fly fishers. High quality and a fly rod built in the U.S.A. The Sage Trout LL will last a lifetime and give you an “edge-up” on tossing delicate dry flies to sippers. Check current prices and reviews on Amazon with this shortcut link 👉 Sage Trout LL

Pros

• Classic design (progressive taper)
• Incredible quality and made in American workmanship
• Comfortable premium cork grip
• Available in more than one weight size

Cons

• Cost, accurate casts and delicate presentation costs a bit more.

Overall rating: 5 out of 5

Guide Pro Tip: Selecting a fly rod can be tough, all those numbers and trying to figure out what rod is best for which fish. I’ve got an article that should help 👉 Selecting a Fly Rod a Complete Guide

3.   Orvis Clearwater 5-Wt 9′ Fly Rod Outfit – Best Budget

Another renowned manufacturer that has never disappointed is Orvis; they have dominated the entry-level market for years. And one of the main lines that have helped them dominate this market is the Clearwater Outfit. This 5-wt 9′ gear has everything any beginner will need to perfect their skills without breaking the bank.

The Perfect Fly Rod Combo for Colorado

Orvis originated in the fly fishing business. The Orvis Clearwater Combo is perfectly balanced and comes with everything except flies. It’s so easy to cobble together an outfit that just doesn’t cast right. No worries with that using the Clearwater Fly Rod Combo.

Check Prices and Reviews on Amazon

This rod is what I got my son when he became interested in fly fishing and wanted to join me on my fishing trips. The fact that it has a reel, leader, backing, and floating line made it easier for me to decide when purchasing this product. And given its weight, it’s the best option for handling pikes, smallmouth, trout, and several saltwater fish species.

The Orvis Clearwater 5-wt 9′ fly rod outfit is considered one of the best rods on rivers, but that won’t matter for beginners, especially since you’re still learning and perfecting your casting line. And to complete your gear, you can also get your waders and boots from Orvis. Don’t let their price discourage you; they are still high-quality fly fishing gear that will never disappoint. (source)

Specs

• Brand: Orvis
• Rod length: 9 feet
• Item weight: 1.16kg
• Fishing technique: fly

Pros

• Affordable
• Ideal for beginners
• It’s a complete set with reel and fly line
• Easy to use
• Can tackle a wide range of saltwater fishes

Cons

• Not ideal for experienced anglers

Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5

1.   Farbank Redington Claymore Switch/Spey Rod – Fast Action Casting Rod

Most experienced fly anglers don’t use this rod to present their dry fly to trout has always baffled me. After all, these two-handed fly rods have helped me rocket my streamers to some trout a few yards away accurately. It has allowed me to cast a few feet beyond the reach of other anglers with their gear.

Plus, given that it’s lightweight and powerful, you will have fun reeling your huge catch. Another thing I love about this fly rod is the fact that I don’t have to worry about creating too much backcasting space when casting is a bonus. This rod works in tight spots as you don’t have to worry about leaving too much space behind you when casting your line.

Why Is It Ideal For Long Distances?

As one of the best long-casting rods on the market, this rod is ideal for folks used to cast long distances. It is one of the few rods with a powerful, smooth blank that can maximize your casting potential. And thanks to its polymer pinch-grip sections at the bottom and top of the handle, you can enjoy elite line control while casting.

To minimize fatigue after casting an entire day, it comes with an improved reel and rod weight balance thanks to the Anodized-aluminum reel seat. And thanks to the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty, you will never have to worry about repairs when your unit breaks down. (source)

Specs

• Brand: Farbank
• Action: Fast
• Handle material: Cork
• Material: Aluminum

Guide Tip: If you’ve been considering a Spey rod, the Claymore Switch/Spey is a great entry into spey casting and the incredilbe line control that comes with casting a two handed fly rod. The best part is Amazon can ship this baby ASAP. Check prices and reviews with this shortcut link 👉 Farbank Redington Claymore Switch/Spey Rod

Pros

• Durable
• Long cast
• Fast action
• Easy to control
• Lightweight
• Perfect reel and rod weight balance

Cons

• Costly

Overall rating: 5 out of 5

2.   Redington Zero Fly Fishing Reel – Most Flexible Reel

Generally, you need a Redington Zero reel if you’re looking for a model that guarantees simplicity. This exceptional 3-ounce gear was introduced in 2016 and used the old-school click-and-pawls system. It has set the standards for a lightweight reel in the trout fishing game.

Zero Fly Reel can help you fight any trout species irrespective of its size, and to ensure that you don’t lose your catch, it has a reliable clicker drag. The clicker drag provides a smooth resistance, particularly during the screaming runs.

And for speedy retrieval during the screaming runs, it has a vast arbor that reduces line memory and guarantees fast line retrieval. So when a huge trout tries to run away with the lure, you can palm the reel to slow the fish down and reel it in slowly while tiring it down. A durable die-cast construction creates a lightweight design. (source)

Specs

• Brand: Redington
• Line type: fly
• Weight: 0.3 pounds
• Hand orientation: ambidextrous
• Material: die cast

Pros

• Durable
• Sleek design
• Lightweight
• Fast retrieval mechanism
• Versatile
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Costly

Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5

3.   Compass 360 Deadfall Fly Fishing Waders – Best Budget Breathable Waders

If spending over $500 on a high-end wader is an issue for you, you should invest in the Compass 360 Fly Fishing Waders for men. Compass Deadfall wader is an exceptional value that will serve a fly fisher for a long time. Plus, the fact that it’s affordable is an added bonus. These waders will last for several seasons of hard use. (I should know, I beat mine up bushwhacking) They are comfortable and have added wear layers in the knees and seat. I’ve found them to be warm enough on all but the coldest days.

Compass used a multi-layered waterproof fabric and some added seam tape on all sewn seams. The pass through pocket keeps fingers warm and the zipper pockets keep valuables secure.

For additional comfort, it comes with 3.5mm neoprene booties and a 4mm bottom for increased durability and comfort. I would never hesitate to use this pair of waders as it has kept some of my pals warm and safe on many fishing trips, including the Great Smokies, upstate New York, Montana, and Colorado. (source)

Guide Pro Tip: I’m hard on waders. If I can get two seasons of crashing through woods, and winter ice jams in my waders I’m happy. The Compass 360 Deadfall waders EXCEED my expectations. Highly recommended, Amazon carries these so you can get them FAST. Shortcut link for prices and reviews 👉 Compass 360 Deadfall Waders

Specs

• Brand: Compass 360
• Material: Weight: 2.95pounds
• Color:
• Sizes: Dimensions: 8 by 8 by 6.5 inches
• Color: gray

What I Love About the Deadfall Waders

• Affordable (easily the best value for waders online)
• Comfortable (adjustable suspenders and drawstring)
• Durable (multiple layers in the high wear areas)
• Waterproof and breathable
• Keeps you warm while fishing
• Available in a wide range of sizes

Cons

• None

Overall rating: 4.2 out of 5

4.   Ventures Fly Assortment – Best Budget Fly Assortment With Box

When starting out getting a fly box with a good foundation of flies that work all over the U.S. should be a starting point. The Ventures fly assortment does exactly this. With 40 flies divided between nymphs, dries and streamers. Many flies have a couple sizes to “match the hatch” on those days trout are refusing most offerings.

The team at Ventures Fly Co (located in Cedar Hills, UT) filled this box with dry flies like: Adams, Elk Hair, BWOs and Gnats. For folks taht like to drift flies sub-surface flies like: Hare’s Ear, Emergers, Midges and Wooly Buggers are also in this collection.

Besides being affordable, this fly box has room to add more flies. I always recommend when visiting new waters to drop by a fly shop and get the some “local” intel and buy a couple flies.

The slit foam is ideal for holding dry flies up, which avoids mashing down the hackle. The height might seem big, but that important for protecting those valuable flies.

Ventures Fly Co. 40 Fly Assortment Has a Great Selection of Flies

This assortment has most of the flies needed lay the foundation for an effective fly box. the most common dries, nymphs and streamers. Check out the on water video review on YouTube – HERE

Click Here To Check out the Prices on Amazon

Specs

• Brand: Ventures Fly Co
• 40 flies in an assortment of styles and sizes
• Assortment comes with flies, a couple convenient containers and a hatch chart
• Dimensions: 6.1 by 4.2 by 1.8 inches

Pros

• Affordable
• Can store a wide range of flies and streamers
• Lightweight
• Designed to keep even the streamers safe

Cons

• None

Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5

Factors To Consider When Buying Fly Fishing Gear Online

Like bait fishing, fly fishing also comes with a wide range of gear, and with the ever-changing technology, the industry has evolved over the last few decades. Luckily, we can find most of this gear online, and after purchasing them, we can have them delivered to our doorsteps. But this doesn’t mean that we should buy the first rod that we find online. Some of them are available at a discount doesn’t mean that they’re low quality.

Therefore, you can get an entire outfit with a road, reel, and fly line or purchase them separately. But most experienced anglers prefer purchasing them separately. So here are a few factors that you have to consider when buying the best Ex. Fly fishing gear available:

Your Needs

If you’re an experienced fly angler, then the chances are that you already have full gear, which you may have updated over the last few years as you improve your skills. Therefore, when investing in new gear, you should always consider what you need the most; for example, if you’re visiting a saltwater lake, you need to get a salt fishing reel and rod.

If you plan to try nymphing for the first time, you should get the right fly rod, reel, and line for the job. If you plan on tying your dry flies, you should also get fly tying equipment and start working on your flies in the comfort of your home.

Guide Pro Tip: If you’re just starting out check out this 25 minute Dry Fly fishing workshop at 👉 How 2 Fly Fish

Your Budget

We all want a high-end option, but our budgets always prevent us from getting high-end fly fishing gear. Therefore, before you start your shopping, you should always set your budget to avoid getting into debt. Luckily, many affordable, high-quality options can still help you achieve your fly fishing goals.

Therefore, you should get the right fly fishing gear within your budget range instead of breaking the bank. If the latest models don’t work for you, you can go for some of the oldest fly rod models that are still very effective when casting your line.

Warranties

Despite being high-quality gears, your fly rod can easily get damaged while being transported or fishing in your favorite river or lake. And considering the price of a set of fly fishing gear, it’s always a good idea to get gear with a warranty. With the manufacturer’s warranty, you can get your fly rod fixed and as good as new and ready for your next fishing trip.

Therefore, it’s always good to get your gear from an authorized dealer for the warranty to be effective. You should register your gear after purchasing it and keep your receipt safe. Remember, you will require the original receipt when sending your rod for repairs to the manufacturer.

Materials

Even though they come with a warranty, it’s always good to get a gear built using high-quality materials. If it’s a wader you’re looking for, you should ensure that it has waterproof material that cannot be easily damaged while fly fishing from the shores. If you plan to fish in saltwater bodies, you need powerful gear to tackle the vast and powerful saltwater fish species.

Initially, fly rods used bamboo, but manufacturers have adopted other materials, including carbon fiber, graphite, and fiberglass, over the years. Ensure your reel is enclosed to prevent the saltwater and dirt from damaging it.

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One More Cast

If you’re a fly angler, you know the fan and peace of this sport. Our parents and grandparents have used the fishing sessions as teachable moments and shared some of the best life knowledge while teaching us how to fish. Therefore, we need the right gear for the job to serve us without ever giving in.

From our research, we have concluded that the Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Series Fly Fishing Rod is the best overall. This drifter fly rod is one of the best gear in the market that outperforms even the high-end options. If you’re looking for a complete outfit for beginners, try the Orvis Clearwater 5-wt 9′ fly rod outfit. The Orvis Clearwater 5-wt 9′ fly rod outfit has everything a beginner will ever need to perfect their skills while having fun.