So I'm looking to get a 4wt rod in 8-9 ft length. I have a 7' 3wt I use for tight quarters fishing but want to get a longer 4wt that I can cast farther with and use on bigger water for trout. Mostly will be used to fish dries and dry-dropper rigs, but would like to have the capability to throw small streamers as well. I want to stay under $500 for a rod and reel so I realize that takes some manufacturers out of the game. I've been looking at the Orvis Clearwater combos, TFO BVK, St. Croix, and possibly Beulah rods on the upper end of my price range. Does anybody have any experience with these rods? Open to any other suggestions as well. Thanks.

You might take a look at Fly Shop Closeouts. They usually have a pretty nice selection of higher end rods and reels with solid discounts. I believe they are now offering an additional 20% off their discounted prices. They also carry a good single rod case if the rod you choose doesn't come with one. Oh yeah, I'm a firm believer in Orvis and TFO. Don't know anything about the others.

I have several Clearwaters. I think they are a lot of rod for the money. Almost all of my fly rods are Orvis or TFO.

Personally, I would connect with Dave Johnson the owner of the Crystal River Fly Shop in Carbondale, Colorado. Google it.

Dave places some really terrific, affordable rods and reels on Ebay well below your budgeted amount. He can make you a really good deal over the phone as well. I purchased three rod & reel combinations, my choice of rod and my choice of reel. He even setup the reels, spooled with backing and made me an awesome deal on flyline.

It is at least worth pursuing to see what deal you can strike up!

FYI. I purchased a 7' 3 weight, an 8.5" 5 weight and a 9' 5 weight from him. The rods I purchased were Redington rods and Ross reels.

You should be able to get a pretty darn good setup with $500. I picked a 8'6 4wt Sage ZXL and Redington Drift reel for about that. I have 3 high end Sages, a St Croix Avid, a Echo 3wt switch and 2 Beulahs, which were all less than $500. Look for closeout models. Ebay is a good source as well. Spend the money on the rod and line. I use click and pawl reels on 4 my wts, and they can be had for less then $100.