I currently have a 5wt-9-ft rod that I have caught some nice pond bass, crappie, bluegill and even catfish in the 7-10lb range (wooly buggers rock!). Looking to purchase a cheap ultralight combo to mess around catching sunfish. Any recommendations on whether a 2wt or 3wt would be better and what length. Seen them range from 5'-6" to 8-ft. Also read that slow rod would be better but most seem to be medium fast. Only been fishing the fly rod off and on for about two years and still have a lot to learn. Appreciate recommendations.
A lot depends on your casting skills and what you intend to cast. A 1 or 2 weight rod should be able to handle small poppers, if you use them. I wouldn’t go any heavier than that, but you may prefer a heavier rod. I’d go as long as conditions permit; you’ll probably find a longer rod easier to cast, and a bit more effective fighting fish. If you can, try some different setups before you pull the trigger. What ever you decide on: enjoy!
If looking for a slower rod, look for a fiberglass rod. A Cabela's CGR could be a good choice. I have several 2 and 3 weight rods, some pretty expensive, but the CGR holds up well in that company. I prefer the 2 weight to the 3 weight, as I consider the 3 weight too short unless you are fishing under heavy overhead cover. Another inexpensive glass rod that some people really like is the Aventik in 3 weight, available on Amazon. It will probably take you a little time initially getting used to the slower action, but once you get used to it I believe you will like it. There are quite a few 2 and 3 weight glass rods available, but most are significantly more expensive than the ones I mentioned.
What Canoeman said is really spot on. I'd also put in a plug for the Eagle Claw glass rods too. They take another line weight or two up but come very inexpensive and make an eater bluegill feel like a striper in heavy current and are also capable of flinging poppers and buggers.
Personally have two 3 wt. rods. Both are TFO BVK’s. An 8 ft was one of my first rods. The picked up a 10 ft. For ponds and nymphing in Arkansas. I find the BVK is easy to cast and feels right for me.
Some people go to church and think about fishing. Some go fishing and think about God.
I prefer slower shorter fiberglass rods over longer faster carbon fiber rods. I find shorter rods easier to control and more accurate. You don't need to make ultra long casts to catch sunfish. To me a fiberglass rod is more run in a fight than a ridged carbon fiber rod. The drawback to fiberglass is its heavier than carbon fiber.
Last edited by Mitt78; 11/07/2001:52 PM.
Re: ultralight for sunfish 2wt or 3wt?
[Re: Mitt78]
#1376095311/07/2010:51 PM
Consider where you are going to be fishing when you choose your rod length. If you are going to be nymphing in rivers or running deep flies then you may want a 9 ft or longer rod to help lift out of the water.
But if you are plopping bass bugs into ponds you will like a 6.5 or 7' rod. You cannot believe the difference it makes working yourself in and under trees or into tight spaces at your local pond.
Re: ultralight for sunfish 2wt or 3wt?
[Re: COFF]
#1376384511/10/2002:13 AM
Found a cheap $70 Maxcatch complete set-up - two choices, 6' 2wt or 7'-6" 3wt. Price point fits my skill. Fishing neighborhood ponds. Leaning towards the 3wt.
Found a cheap $70 Maxcatch complete set-up - two choices, 6' 2wt or 7'-6" 3wt. Price point fits my skill. Fishing neighborhood ponds. Leaning towards the 3wt.
I know nothing about either rod, but I fish a 3 wt way more than my 2 wt. The 3 wt is more of a general purpose size.
Obviously, your mileage may vary.
Fly Fishers International certified casting instructor TFO Rods pro staff