There are lots of great fly rods out there, but how do you know which one is the best one for you? Here at Curated, our independent experts recommend rods to customers just like you every day. Check out this list of our experts' top-recommended fly rods under $500, then chat with a Fly Fishing expert to make sure you find the perfect rod for you.
- Orvis Clearwater Freshwater Fly Rod
- Orvis Clearwater Big Game & Saltwater Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters Pro II Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters Axiom II-X Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters Signature II Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters Blue Ribbon Fly Rod
- Orvis Clearwater Two-Handed Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Black Label Fly Rod & Kit
- Temple Fork Outfitters LK Legacy Fly Rod
- Orvis Practicaster
Orvis Clearwater Freshwater Fly Rod
Arguably the best rod on the market for $200 or less. A tried and tested do-it-all rod from one of the most reputable brands in fly fishing.All around trout fishing. It's perfect for dries, nymphs, small streamers. Big rivers and small creeks, wade fishing and boat fishing. Just a solid all around 5 weight to cover most trout situations.
Perfect for many different applications of fishing. Can handle the larger fish in big bodies of water but also still provide enjoyable action on smaller fish elsewhere.
All around trout fishing. Dry flies, nymphs, small streamers, etc.
Orvis Clearwater Big Game & Saltwater Fly Rod
This rod outperforms its price-range by a mile. Launching bass bugs/streamers is just as easy as presenting dries. Very versatile rod in general.
All around trout! This is more of a medium-action rod, so requires a bit slower casting stroke. Feels great for those who enjoy that flex!
Orvis makes high quality rods that are great to fish with. They are very comfortable to cast for extended periods of time.
Temple Fork Outfitters Pro II Fly Rod
This rod is very powerful but also casts very smooth. It has a medium fast action that can handle long distance casting. Temple Fork rods have a lifetime warranty and if you ever have to put in a claim they are a great company to work with.
This rod is a stud for medium to larger waters, where you're really trying to cast out to those farther fish, and can bring them in without too much stress.
Good do all rod, great for budget conscious buyers.
Temple Fork Outfitters Axiom II-X Fly Rod
This rod would be awesome for fishing for red drum. A 10 wt would be able to keep up with the bigger ones. A lot of people like to use this size of rod as well for king mackerel and other even tarpon if you go after them. It is a little on the lighter side if you hook into a huuuuge tarpon but you could go as small as a 9wt for tarpon if you really want to and just fight it good all day. This should be a great rod for the red drum and Mackerel.
Snappy fast-action rod picks up and chucks line and large flies effortlessly, and recovers/dampens well to fight fish. Great for inshore saltwater species and large freshwater/anadromous fish like Steelhead, Salmon, Pike and Musky.
Great for all trout applications and can double as a fly rod for bass if ever you pursue them.
Temple Fork Outfitters Signature II Fly Rod
Casting longer distances and in wind. In my experience, TFO rods are faster action (stiffer), and do a great job in windy places such as Wyoming. You can use this rod for dries, nymphs, and streamers, and can probably get away with casting some larger flies here.
The 9' 5 Wt is a great do it all weight and length for a variety of trout situations - dries, medium-light nymph rigs, and even small streamers. A perfect first fly rod that has enough performance to impress even the most accomplished casters.
All types of freshwater fishing. Enough backbone in the rod to fight all types of fish comfortably.
Temple Fork Outfitters Blue Ribbon Fly Rod
If your gear priority is quality then look no further! TFO is arguably the best in the industry when it comes to offering a quality rod at EVERY price point. Built with quality components ensures its durability and performance. Aside from the product itself TFO's customer service is second to none. should you for any reasons have issues with your rod or perhaps have an accident out on the river they will ensure they resolve the issue ASAP and have you back out on the water in no time! If a perfect presentation or mending abilities to keep that perfect dead drift is your thing then this is your rod!
Orvis Clearwater Two-Handed Fly Rod
Great medium action action rod that handles small streams really well. Has great balance and power to handle small dry flies and large streamers as well.
Perfect tool for steelheading. Allows you to swing flies or nymph with ease.
Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Black Label Fly Rod & Kit
Nice mid-fast action rod options from TFO. Great accuracy and rebound with a great and comfortable handle shape. This package includes a reel, line, and leader!
Temple Fork Outfitters LK Legacy Fly Rod
TFO makes great quality rods that also have a great warranty! This 8 weight is a 9-foot, 4-piece carbon fiber rod with full cork grips. It is a great rod for throwing big poppers and catching big bass. It is also good for some salmon fishing. This rod is built for bigger fish: bass, salmon, northern pike, etc. It is a fast action rod which is great for long, powerful casts.
Orvis Practicaster
Specifically made to be indoor-friendly casting practice for days when you can't get to river.
Curated Experts don’t get paid by the manufacturer to write these reviews. All of their opinions are their own and unbiased. Want to learn more about our experts? Check out the video or view some of their profiles to learn more!
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