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 $250, then chat with a Fly Fishing expert to make sure you find the perfect rod for you.
- Orvis Clearwater® Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters Pro 2 Fly Rod
- Redington Classic Trout Fly Rod
- Orvis Clearwater® 6-Piece Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Black Label Fly Rod & Kit
- Temple Fork Outfitters Signature 2 Fly Rod
- Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Black Label Fly Rod
- Orvis Practicaster
- Temple Fork Outfitters Tough Fly Rod
Orvis Clearwater® Fly Rod
A very well designed rod especially for the price. Orvis has been around for over a decade as has a reputation as being a leader in the fly fishing industry. Medium Fast action rod (not too flexible but also not stiff as a board), light in hand, and overall a very versatile rod for anglers of all levels, not just for beginners! All around freshwater fishing scenarios is where this rod is at home. Trout is I would say it's "bread and butter", but is also a great for targeting other 12"-24" freshwater species. Its stiff enough to handle some of the heaviest rigs you would throw for trout while also having a certain delicate side that is exceptional for throwing, everyone's favorite, dry flies! Also Orvis is kind enough to give out a warranty to this rod so no worries if anything were to break, all is not lost!
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.
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!
Temple Fork Outfitters Pro 2 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.
Redington Classic Trout Fly Rod
One of the best entry-level rods, hands down. This rod has successfully helped many anglers step up their game and catch more fish. Easy, accessible action helps you improve your accuracy and tighten your loop. Casts dry flies as well as nymphs and smaller buggers with ease!
The classic trout is a great rod to learn how to fly fish on. It performs great and casts really smoothly, and for the price, is a great bargain for mid-tier quality at entry-level cost.
8'6" 3WT. A solid Redington rod. Entry level, but gets the job done. Good for trout.
Orvis Clearwater® 6-Piece Fly Rod
Not only does it have the length to reach out and control drifts and the power to reach far banks, but it also has the line weight to handle big bass. Firing a big topwater won't be an issue!
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 Signature 2 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 NXT Black Label Fly Rod
TFO has made one of the most beginner friendly rods with the Black Label series. The TFO Black Label kit is an excellent setup that is used by many fly schools for teaching the fundamentals yet will still have enough performance to keep you happy for a long time. The rod is a versatile, medium-fast action that will suit a lot of casting styles and flies. The included NXT BLK Reel is a solid reel that will perform as intended and comes loaded with backing, a weight-forward floating fly line, and leader/tippet.
Orvis Practicaster
Specifically made to be indoor-friendly casting practice for days when you can't get to river.
Temple Fork Outfitters Tough Fly Rod
Excellent rod for the saltwater or hard-charging fresh water species - pike, salmon, steelhead.
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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