10 Best Fly Rods Of 2024: Tested and Reviewed

As any avid fly-fishing enthusiast would tell you, fly fishing is an art form; it’s a dance between the angler and nature.

As we gear up for 2024, we thought it couldn’t be a better time to reveal our take on the ten best fly rods. Of these, the Orvis Clearwater leads the way, offering exceptional performance at a very affordable price.

So, whether you’re casting your fly line in serene mountains, battling the winds on a rugged coast, or seeking the thrill of landing that elusive Smallmouth bass, choosing the right fly rod can elevate your fly fishing experience from memorable to extraordinary.

Best Fly Rods Of 2024

Based on rigorous testing in ponds, streams, lakes, and rivers, we identified the best fly rods of 2024:

1. Orvis Clearwater – Best Value Fly Rod

2. G. LOOMIS NRX+ Spey – Best For Bass Fishing and Fishing In Windy Conditions

3. Sage R8 Core Fly Fishing Rod – Best All-Round Trout Rod

4. Epic Reference 476 Fastglass – Best Small Stream Fly Rod

5. Orvis Helios 3D – Best Precision Casting Rod

6. Douglas DXF – Best All-Round Fly Rod

7. Redington Classic Trout – Best Beginner-Friendly Rod

8. Penn’s Creek Full-Flex Split Bamboo – Best For Those Who Enjoy Bamboo Fly Rods

9. Sage Foundation Fly Fishing Rod – Best Entry-Level Fast-Action Rod

10. Sage Maverick Saltwater – Best Saltwater Fly Rod

1) Orvis Clearwater – Best Value Fly Rod

Specifications:

• Line Weight: 3 – 12

• Length: 6 – 12ft

• Action: Medium-Fast

• Color: Black

• Warranty: 25-Year Guarantee

• Country Of Manufacture: USA

• Price: $249

The Orvis Clearwater stands out as an exceptional all-purpose trout fly rod. It has an exceptionally easy casting and even has the ability to cast long distances with minimal effort.

However, its close-range accuracy is wavering and can be a bit heavy, especially if you’re in the water for long periods.

Still, the medium-fast action provides a pleasant balance between power and sensitivity, allowing for enjoyable full-day fishing sessions.

When I used the Clearwater for a day on the water, it revealed its strength in distance casting and its versatility.

Despite the weight, the comfort and control it offers really impressed me. Overall, the Clearwater remains a solid choice for anglers looking for quality at a reasonable price, even as we enter 2024.

Pros:

• Excellent value for money

• Forgiving and easy to adapt to

• Decent line control

Cons:

• Slightly heavy

• Not as accurate for short-range casting

Personally, my favorite size is the 8 foot with a nine weight. It offers the best blend of control and power. Check below for the Clearwater on Orvis.

Clearwater® Fly Rod White Size 8-Weight. 9' Graphite Orvis

2) G. LOOMIS NRX+ Spey – Best For Bass Fishing and Fishing In Windy Conditions

Specifications:

• Length: 10 feet

• Line Weight: 5

• Action: Fast

• Pieces: 4

• Warranty: Limited lifetime

• Price: $915

This fly rod is a testament to advanced fly rod engineering.

Its fast action and robust build cater to anglers who demand precision and power, excelling in generating high-line speed and accuracy.

It is especially useful in those windy bass fishing conditions. Its effectiveness is further proven for nymphing and more advanced fly fishing casting methods.

Fishing with the NRX+ Spey was a revelation in power and control.

Casting in windy conditions was a breeze (pun intended) – I especially liked the rod’s responsiveness.

Overall, this rod demands respect and delivers performance in return. For anyone who wants to level up their fly fishing game, this is the rod to get.

Pros:

• Superior line speed and casting accuracy

• Handles windy conditions like a champ

• Robust construction, offering long-term durability

Cons:

• Expensive

Check price on Amazon.

3) Sage R8 Core Fly Fishing Rod – Best All-Round Trout Rod

Specifications:

• Length: 8.6-10 feet

• Line Weight: 3-9

• Action: Fast

• Pieces: 4

• Warranty: Original-owner lifetime

• Price: $1,050

The Sage R8 Core offers a blend of elegance and efficiency.

It has a lightweight design, but fear not, there’s no compromise in power.

The R8 Core’s fast action is tuned for maximum performance, providing any fish angler with a reliable and responsive fishing tool.

When I tested the R8 Core, its ability to effortlessly switch between different fly fishing styles was impressive – from a short backcast to a double haul cast.

Furthermore, I had some of my best presentations of a dry fly with this fly rod.

The R8 Core is truly an investment that pays off in performance and satisfaction.

Pros:

• Incredible balance of lightness and power

• Adaptable across a range of fishing techniques

• Timeless design and aesthetic appeal

Cons:

• Premium pricing, positioning it as a high-end option

4) Epic Reference 476 Fastglass – Best Small Stream Fly Rod

Specifications:

• Length: 7 ½ feet

• Line Weight: 4

• Action: Medium

• Pieces: 4

• Warranty: Lifetime

• Price: $695

The Epic Reference 476 Fastglass is a work of art. Its medium action is perfectly tuned for small streams and delicate presentations. The rod’s build quality and aesthetics are impeccable.

I remember my first time using this fly rod. It was on a small mountain stream – boy, was it a memorable experience!

Its ability to place flies with precision and its gentle handling of the trout were noteworthy. If you’re solely focused on stream fly fishing, the 476 Fastglass is your best fly rod.

Pros:

• Ideal for intricate casting scenarios

• Premium build and stunning visual appeal

• Surprising strength for its light build

Cons:

• Specialized nature limits its versatility

• Premium price point for a niche rod

5) Orvis Helios 3D – Best Precision Casting Rod

Specifications:

• Length: 9 – 10ft

• Line Weight: 4 – 12

• Action: Fast

• Sections: 4

• Warranty: 25-Year Guarantee

• Country Of Manufacture: USA

• Price: $998

Orvis is a leader in the fly rod industry, as is evident with two of their products featured on our best fly rod of 2024 list.

The Helios 3D is a marvel in the fast-action fly rod category. It promises pinpoint accuracy and delivers high line speed with minimal effort – what more do you want? Its construction is a true testament to Orvis’ dedication to innovation.

Fishing with the Helios 3D was almost too much for me.

It took me a while to get used to its increased line speed. But, once I felt adept at handling this beast, I could really start to feel why everyone was so impressed by it.

Its ability to make pinpoint casts at long distances without causing fatigue was really impressive.

This rod almost feels like an extension of your will, responding intuitively to your casting style and conditions – almost reading your mind.

Pros:

• Remarkable accuracy across various distances

• Lightweight design for all-day comfort

• Durable build, ensuring long-term reliability

Cons:

• Price point may be prohibitive for some anglers

The 9-foot, 7-weight is my personal favorite Helios 3D. You’ll notice it has an extra grip handle at the bottom, allowing for better grip. You can check the price on Orvis below.

Helios™ 3D Fly Rod White Size 7-Weight. 9' Graphite Orvis

6) Douglas DXF – Best All-Round Fly Rod

Specifications:

• Length: Varied (e.g., 8’6″ #5, 9′ #3 – 9′ #8, 9’6″ #6)

• Line Weight: 2 – 7

• Pieces: 4

• Manufacture: South Korea

• Warranty: Lifetime to the original owner

• Price: $499

Douglas DXF – what a rod! This fly fishing rod is a well-rounded contender in the market with its blend of affordability and high-end fly rod performance.

It has a versatile action, catering to both the experienced and beginner.

In my hands, the Douglas DXF felt capable and adaptable. Whether I was casting dry flies, heavier nymphs, or streamers, the rod performed consistently across the board.

Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a solid all-rounder without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• Great value for its quality and performance

• Versatile action suitable for a range of fishing techniques

• Solid build quality ensuring durability

Cons:

• May lack the specialized feel of more premium models

• Some anglers might prefer a more distinct action in specific scenarios

Check price on Amazon.

7) Redington Trailblazer – Best Beginner-Friendly Rod

Specifications:

• Length: 7 – 9ft

• Line Weight: 2 – 5

• Action: Medium

• Sections: 4

• Warranty: Lifetime

• Country Of Manufacture: USA

• Price: $249.99 (with Tube)

The Redington Trailblazer is a true trout rod. Its medium action excels in presenting flies delicately, making it perfect for fish that spook easily in smaller streams.

Its action makes it easy for fly fishermen new to trout fishing to tackle the pond faster.

Fishing with the Trailblazer was a true delight, especially on smaller streams. Its ability to gently present flies was remarkable.

This is an excellent beginner fly rod choice for those who want to learn the art of subtle, traditional trout fishing.

Pros:

• Excellent price-to-performance ratio

• Ideal for traditional trout fishing techniques

• Comfortable and easy to handle, even for beginners

Cons:

• May struggle with larger fish

• Underpowered for some scenarios

Check price on Amazon.

8) Penn’s Creek Full-Flex Split Bamboo Fly Rod – Best For Those Who Enjoy Bamboo Fly Rods

Specifications:

• Length: 7 ft

• Line Weight: 4

• Action: Medium-Fast

• Sections: 2

• Warranty: 25-year limited

• Country of Manufacture: USA

• Price: $3498

This fly rod is an underrated performer in the fly fishing world. It offers a great balance between strength and sensitivity – if that makes sense. What I mean by this is that it has the strength to tackle your bigger fish, like Striped Bass and saltwater species, but also sensitive enough to offer a beautiful presentation of the fly to your spookier fish, like Trout.

Using the Penn’s Creek was a pleasant surprise. Its responsiveness and ease of handling made it enjoyable for both casting and fighting Largies. This rod is a solid choice for those looking for quality without the high-end price tag.

Pros:

• Balanced action for diverse fishing scenarios

• High-quality construction at an accessible price

• Good sensitivity for detecting subtle bites

Cons:

• May not excel in extreme fishing conditions

• Lacks the brand recognition of more established names

This is truly a beautiful rod. I don’t know, but there’s just something about bamboo rods that makes you want to quit your day job and fly fish for a living. Anyways, you can check the price on Orvis.

Penn's Creek Full-Flex Split Bamboo Fly Rod Orvis

9) Sage Foundation Fly Fishing Rod – Best Entry-Level Fast-Action Rod

Specifications:

• Length: 9 – 10ft

• Line Weight: 4 – 9

• Action: Fast

• Sections: 4

• Warranty: Lifetime

• Country Of Manufacture: USA

• Price: $495 ($695 for rod, reel and line combo)

The Sage Foundation fly fishing rod is probably one of the best entry-level fast-action rods I’ve tested. It just shows Sage’s commitment to quality, even in their more affordable models.

Casting with the Sage Foundation felt interesting and rewarding. While its aesthetics lacks that of its more premium counterparts, it still felt like a premium fly rod.

Overall, I really enjoyed the Foundation – it’s a solid fly rod for anyone who wants to explore faster actions but still wants a taste of the reliability and quality Sage so often offers.

Pros:

• Excellent entry into the fast-action rod category

• Sage quality at a more affordable price

• Versatile for various fishing conditions

Cons:

• Aesthetics and finish may not match higher-end Sage models

• Some anglers might find it less forgiving than medium-action rods

Check price on Amazon.

10) Sage Maverick – Best Saltwater Fly Rod

Specifications:

• Length: 8.6 – 9ft

• Line Weight: 6-12

• Action: Fast

• Sections: 4

• Warranty: Lifetime

• Country Of Manufacture: USA

• Price: $675

Redfish, Permit, Tarpon – the Sage Maverick is the pinnacle of saltwater fishing, offering unmatched versatility and performance. Its fast action and advanced technology ensure superior casting and control.

Fishing with a Maverick rod is an experience in itself. Its responsiveness and power make it a joy to cast.

Plus, it handles a variety of fishing scenarios with ease, from trying to bait Redfish out of their hiding spots to battling Permit and Tarpon. It’s honestly my favorite saltwater fly rod.

Overall, the Sage Maverick is a worthy investment for serious anglers seeking the best in saltwater fly fishing technology.

Pros:

• Top-tier performance and versatility

• Advanced technology for enhanced casting and control

• Sage’s renowned build quality and durability

Cons:

• Premium pricing, reflecting its high-end status

• May be overwhelming for beginners or casual anglers

Check price on Amazon.

Which Fly Rod Should I Pick?

Choosing between the best fly fishing rods for 2024 is no easy task; after all, there are so many good options. To make things easier, think of your skill level, the type of fishing you’ll be doing, and your budget.

Best Fly Rod For Beginners

The Redington Trailblazer and Sage Foundation are the best fly rods for beginners. If it’s your first fly rod, you want something that offers a great balance of quality, performance, and price.

These two rods are ideal for learning the ropes, providing flexibility for easy casting yet enough power for bringing in that trophy!

However, the best beginner fly rod has to be the Redington, considering its exceptional price point.

Best Fly Rod For Stream Fishing

The Epic Reference 476 is the top pick for stream fishing. Its medium action is perfect for the delicate presentations required for streamer fishing.

Plus, the rod’s superior build quality and aesthetic appeal make it not only a functional tool but also a joy to use.

Best Fly Rod For Bass Fishing

The G.LOOMIS NRX+ Sage is our top choice for bass fishing. Its fast action and robust build make it ideal for situations that require both precision and power – two common features in bass fishing.

Furthermore, the rod’s ability to handle windy conditions and its effectiveness for nymphing sets it apart from other premium fly rods.

Best Fly Rod For Trout Fishing

For trout fishing, I would go with Sage R8 Core Fly Fishing rod. Its design offers just the correct amount of lightness and power to make it perform well in any trout fishing scenario. Its fast action ensures you get maximum performance, whether you’re engaged in delicate dry fishing or navigating challenging streams.

Best Fly Rod Overall

The best fly rod overall is the Orvis Clearwater. It has the best balance between performance and value, plus it’s an extremely versatile rod.

A reputable brand name backs the Clearwater. It also offers decent accuracy, a lightweight design, and a durable build, making it a great choice for anglers at any skill level.

How We Rate Fly Fishing Rods

We at Uncharted Wilds take our rating procedure very strictly. No fishing rod makes its way onto this list without getting the Uncharted Wilds stamp of approval. That said, here is the rating system we use to rate fly fishing rods:

• Performance – How well does the rod handle casting, accuracy, and fish fighting?

• Build Quality – Is the rod built from durability, high-quality materials? I always love to see a blend of aluminum and cork.

• Comfort – Weight, grip, and overall feel during prolonged use. Remember, you’ll be using the rod for a while – you need to feel comfortable.

• Versatility – Suitability for different fishing styles and environments.

• Value – Is it priced competitively, and what features does the rod offer considering its price point?

Factors To Consider When Buying A Fly Rod

I always tell new fly rod buyers to consider their use case, to picture themselves in the water catching trout, bass, or any other species – where is it, and what bait are you using?

The reason I do this is to help identify what’s the rod buyer’s main use case. When we identify the use case, we can go into the specifics of what the fly rod needs to have:

• Action: Fast, medium, or slow – each has its own advantages.

• Length: Longer rods for distance, shorter for precision in tight spaces.

• Line Weight: Match this with your intended quarry and fishing style.

• Material: Graphite, fiberglass, or bamboo, each offering different experiences.

• Warranty: Look for longer warranties for added security.

• Price: Remember, the most expensive isn’t always the best.

Saltwater vs. Freshwater Rods

Freshwater and saltwater fly rods (like the Sage Maverick) have a few distinct differences. For instance, saltwater fly rods can handle larger, more powerful fish in harsher conditions.

They also have corrosion-resistant components to ensure longevity in those harsh salty waters.

In comparison, freshwater rods are lighter and more delicate. They are nimble and allow for precision casting. They are suitable for smaller species and gentler environments.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right fly rod is crucial for an enjoyable and successful fishing experience. While the Orvis Clearwater might be the best overall fly rod, there’s no fault in finding more favor with a Sage or Epic Reference fly rod.

However, the most important thing you should pay attention to is to get the fly rod that suits your specific needs and preferences. Remember, the best rod is one that feels right for you and fits your fishing style and environment. Happy fishing, and may you find huge fly fishing success in 2024!