Youth Fly Rod

[Jack Hollister]

Good morning all, last weekend my family and I went to Montauk. My son, 8yrs old, caught his first trout. Actually he caught 3 on Friday morning using my fly rod. This was his first time using a fly rod as well. To make a long story short, he now has the fly rod fever and wants one of his own. I guess Santa will have to bring one this year.

I have been looking on line and came up with the TFO Bug Launcher in a 4/5 wt. Does anyone here have any experience with this rod? It seems to get good reviews. Or any other suggestions would be nice as well. Also not sure what would be a good reel to start with. I would like to have something nice but affordable.

Thanks for reading my post. Happy fishing to everyone!

[ness]

Way to go, Jack! Love the smiles in those pictures -- those are priceless.

I don't know about the TFO rods, but a few years back I got setups from Cabela's for my boys. One is called a Traditionalist II (I think) and I use it myself when I can get my hands on it. Nice rod, smooth casting, fairly slow action. Just got the cheapo reels, and they're working fine for what they do.

[Danoinark]

Jack, thanks for the report. Big smiles on that young man's face. You can't go wrong with any TFO product in my opinion.

Dano

[Trout Commander]

Glad to hear he is hooked!

I am VERY happy with my TFO Pro series and would not hesitate to purchase any TFO rod, especially for a kid with their warranty.

Also, with budget in mind, hit up Bass Pro about a combo with White River gear. I got a Hobbs Creek One reel, backing line and leader for an add'l $20.

[Jack Hollister]

Thanks for the replies......I think I will go with the TFO. As far as reels, does anyone have the Ross Flystart? Looks like it may be a good choice for the setup Im looking for.

Thanks again for your comments.

[Danoinark]

Thanks for the replies......I think I will go with the TFO. As far as reels, does anyone have the Ross Flystart? Looks like it may be a good choice for the setup Im looking for.

Thanks again for your comments.

Jack, just like TFO, You can't go wrong with a Ross Reel. I have some and the favorite of mine is my old Cimarron. They are well made and very functional. It would match that TFO rod nicely.

Dano

[snagged in outlet 3]

I got the Flystart outfit for my 11 year old and the reel is pretty good actually. The floating line sinks and the rod is way to slow. I regret getting it. But like I said, the reel is fine.

If I had it to do over, which I will because the rod sucks, I will go for a faster rod. Those entry level rods are almost useless.

SIO3

[Outside Bend]

The Flystart are great reels period, and an excellent way to start of a young angler. They're really all you need for Missouri trout fishing.

That said, I'd try and get in touch with a flyshop or a Ross dealer. I believe Ross has been or will soon be taken over by 3M/Scientific Anglers, which could potentially impact warranties and repair service in the future, if you bought the reel now.

[Terry Beeson]

This is a shameless plug, but I'll put the Hendrix Outdoors Learn to Fly Fish 5wt kit up against the Ross any day...