If it’s your first time, we are here to save you the trouble. This article has a buying guide and three detailed reviews of the best fly rods available. After reading it, you will have a clear idea of what features you need to look for when buying a fly rod under $200.
Our Top Pick:
Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Series Fly Fishing Rod
★★★★★
Best Value:
Temple Fork Outfitters TFO Lefty Kreh Signature Series II Fly Fishing Rods
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
★★★★★
If you are new to the world of fishing, there is a lot you have to learn. Otherwise, you will get lost in a sea of confusion without catching any fish! Purchasing a fly rod can be a great starting point for you.
Buying the best fly rods can be daunting for new anglers. There are many names in the market that boast of being the best.
The Best Fly Rods Under $200:
We have found the best fly rods in the market that won’t put a dent in your pocket.
Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Series Fly Fishing Rod
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION – Made with performance, medium action graphite and high-grade AAA cork grips. The cork grips have burled ends while the burl reel seats are double-locking, dyed to showcase this rod’s impressive wood graining.
Last update on 2023-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is an excellent quality fly rod that will meet all your needs without breaking the bank. It is available in various weights from 3 to 7 and lengths from 7.6 to 10 feet. It offers good flexibility in all kinds of situations.
It is classified as a medium-action rod. It is versatile in that it works well for long shooting distances and is flexible.
Moonshine offers two tips sections. You can choose the section that meets all your requirements.
Furthermore, this is a graphite rod and offers high accuracy while casting.
All of these features at such an affordable price are a good bet.
Pros
- It offers multiple fishing options.
- The graphite offers good flexibility and accuracy
- It has two tips Lifetime warranty
- It comes with a carry case
Cons
- The dyed fish won’t last for long
Temple Fork Outfitters TFO Lefty Kreh Signature Series II Fly Fishing Rods
- Smooth and powerful, medium fast rods
Last update on 2023-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Signature Series II is the best in the family due to its upgraded features. It works as a medium-action fly-fishing rod. So, these can be used in smaller streams and large bodies of water.
It is suitable for beginners, intermediate, and even expert casters. The design is excellent and elegant.
It has an attractive green finish that adds to the overall design of the fly rod.
It also features a hook keeper and oversized stripping guides. It also comes in multiple weights, each with its specs. So, you can choose the weight that serves your purpose.
With all of the above features, it comes at a very reasonable cost, under $200.
Pros
- It is versatile
- It has a good AA-grade cork grip
- Lifetime warranty It features a hook keeper
Cons
- The dyed fish won’t last for long.
Fenwick AETOS Fly Rods
- Fast-action blank for ideal performance and recovery
Last update on 2023-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This fly rod’s design is half of why you should go for it. It features a deep blue color with silver and gray accents.
The handle is made of cork and also offers multiple designs. The reel is made of black anodized aluminum that works well in tough and harsh fishing situations.
These fly rods are fast-action and work well if you are casting at a distance. It has different lengths that you can purchase according to your own needs.
It works well for short, medium, and long casts with excellent performance and accuracy.
Pros
- It offers good accuracy
- It is a fast-action fly rod
- Affordable cost Various casting distances
- Good power
Cons
- No cons
Why should you Buy a Fly Rod?
A great fly rod can make your fishing experience very easy. Here are some of the benefits of using fly rods.
- Casting
A fly rod lets you cast the fly line accurately. You can avoid spooking the fish with a good fly rod.
- Controlling the Line
A fly rod helps you exercise control over the line that is out of water.
- Striking and Landing Fish
A fly rod can aid you in setting the hook on the fish to fight and land it.
Buying Guide:
Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you should get a fly rod that is affordable and high-performing.
- Price
The price is the first and foremost factor that most anglers keep in mind. You wouldn’t want to invest in a $1000 fly rod. So, we have focused on fly rods below $200. This price range offers many features that will suit new and intermediate-level anglers.
- Conditions
You must keep in mind your weather conditions while you are choosing the best fly-fishing rods. The conditions determine the weight, length, and action specifications.
- Purpose
The fly rod you will buy also depends on the type of water you are fishing in. There are slow-action, medium-action, and fast-action fly rods available.
- Slow-action Fly Rods
These fly rods are most suitable for small rivers. They offer good flexibility and have a slow line speed.
- Medium-action Fly Rods
These fly rods offer control over the fishing line with accuracy. These can be used in both smaller streams and large bodies of water. The tip is flexible, and the lower half is stiff.
- Fast-action Fly Rods
These fly rods are very stiff, and the top portion is bent.
- Length
There are short and long fly rods that have their pros and cons.
- Shorter Fly Rods
These work best in small rivers and streams. They are commonly used for smaller fish. Also, these fly rods are portable and make it easy to walk on foot.
- Longer Fly Rods
These fly-fishing rods let you exercise more line control and offer more casting distance. Furthermore, these are suitable for rough weather conditions and large water bodies.
- Weight
The weight of the fly rod is measured in grains. The weight is crucial because it determines your control of the fishing line.
- Weight 5:
This weight works best for all kinds of trout – read our article with the 10 best Best 5 Weight Fly Rods
- Weight 1-3:
This weight is best for small fish
- Weight 4:
This weight is ideal for all small to medium-sized species of fish.
- Weight 6:
This weight is suitable for small salmon, trout, and bass.
- Weight 7:
This weight works for all bass fishing and monster trout fishing.
- Weight 8 and more:
This scale is good for saltwater fish as well as other species of stronger fish.
- Portability
How many pieces does the fly rod break into? If you plan to travel with the fly rod, you should go for one that breaks into four pieces. Such a rod will be great to pack and carry around.
Final Word:
While the market is full of expensive rods, you can easily find high-quality, durable fly rods for under $200. You must consider all the factors in the buying guide when purchasing a fly rod. The pros and cons given in the reviews are based on our own experience.
Updated: October 31, 2022
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