The False Economy of Cheap Gear
Thu August 27, 2009
When you are new to saltwater fly fishing, the question of what rod and reel to purchase is one of the first important decisions youll make. Unfortunately, many saltwater fly fishing novices believe the decision to go cheap is rational because they dont know yet if they like the sport or will stick with it.
Those new to the sport must try to understand that saltwater fly fishing is not a rational sport! Who travels thousands of miles to distant parts of the world, spends endless hours pursuing fish that are difficult to see and even more difficult to catch? The Saltwater Flyfisher.
We are not suggesting that you spend money needlessly, but take a step back for a moment and look at the saltwater gear options available today. There are many available choices of rods, reels, lines and other gear, and the options keep growing.
A key concept to keep in mind is that good equipment is a great deal easier to learn with than many of the budget options. If you go the less-expensive route, the learning phase can be considerably longer. Saltwater fly fishing puts extreme demands on gear and the better gear simply performs much better, making your initiation more rewarding and fulfilling. Buying the less-expensive gear can work, but given the amount of time you have to learn, the better gear will get you there much faster.
Our recommendation is to buy the best equipment you can afford without missing mortgage or tuition payments. You will learn faster and have more fun. Also important to remember is that most of the premium gear carries a lifetime guarantee. If you have access to a local fly fishing shop, they may rent premium gear so you can fish with it before deciding to buy.
See our Fishing Gear for Belize page for gear guidelines and recommendations.
Those of us addicted to this crazy sport will tell you that you can never have too much gear, but if youre just starting out and would like more insight, feel free to contact us for more information.
