If you love to fish, then you must be familiar with flying rods. They are a great piece of equipment that determines your fishing skills when you are at sea or in any body of water.
Although these rods are expensive, they work effectively on different occasions. Still, many users do not know the reasons that make it expensive. That is what we are about to find out. In this article, you will learn what fly rods are and why they are so expensive.
What are Fly Rods?
Fly rods are fishing rods specially designed for flying fish. They differ from the typical fishing or spinning rods in terms of components and functions. Unlike other fishing rods, fly rods are lightweight, made from carbon fibers with reel-like handles, and specialized weighted lines.
With a fly rod, you can fish at any location. Whether it is on a calm and still lake or the windy sea, the fly rod provides enough power to withstand varying conditions and eventually catch its prey. Besides, its various components made out of unique materials allow you to utilize different fishing methods that are effective during fishing activities.
Why are Fly Rods Expensive?
Many people do wonder why fly rods are expensive. The question, born out of curiosity, creates uncertainty about fly rods’ huge cost when others are inexpensive. Well, if you are part of this category, you are not alone. Here are some reasons we have outlined to answer your question.
1. Graphite or Construction
Many fly rods are made with graphite. Graphites come in various kinds of rating designation that determine the rod type and cost. The rating designations, especially the modulus and tonnage, are the standard rating in the world. The designations – IM6, IM7, 30 Ton, 40 Ton, 30 or 40 million modulus often influence the construction of the rod.
On many occasions, the amount of graphite used in constructing a rod indirectly influences its costs. A rod with more rating (modulus or tonnage) requires fewer materials to achieve the same level of stiffness. However, due to the lightweight nature of fly rods, less graphite is used for its construction. Less graphite implies more materials to keep the rod solid. As for fly rods, costly materials with special technology are utilized to deliver a great performance.
2. Guides
Manufacturers employ different types of guides for a fly rod. Popular guides such as curvy, stripping guides, stainless wire, snake guides, and single foot guides are examples of what they use. In most cases, you will discover the snake or curvy guides with a rod.
However, single-foot guides have taken over recently. For a fly rod, many manufacturers utilize titanium-crafted wire guides to maintain its lightweight. However, they are more expensive than other guides. Its costly price doesn’t deter its functions. Titanium-crafted guides may be expensive but they are stronger, lighter, and create a smooth experience.
3. Cork Quality
Cork handles are materials part of a fly rod. The quality of the cork handle requires an upgrade as the price of the rod increases. Its quality ranges in various standards such as high, low, and medium quality. Low-quality corks do not have a nice appearance and often have cracks or filler that inhibit tight grips. Hence, using a high-quality cork is considerable. If your rod consists of a cork that is of high quality, you will have a smooth experience while using it. However, you should understand that high-quality corks (Flor Grade, U-40) are expensive.
4. Reel Seat
Fly rod’s reel seats are made of aluminum together with graphite or wood. High-quality or refined reel seats are more expensive and often go along with rods of intricate design.
5. Rod Tube
Many rod tubes are made of bare aluminum, pvc, or plastic materials. If you purchase an expensive rod, you will get an above-average tube which serves as an advantage. It could be a “made from aluminum” tube or a tube made from graphite.
6. Styling
Styling is another prominent factor that influences the price of a fly rod. Sometimes, the stylish effect of a rod can increase its price. On some other occasions, it may not. What matters is the material used in creating the rod. If the material is high-quality and the style is quite exquisite, then the price may go up. Above all, it is essential to check the material. An expensive rod made of low-quality material may not be effective.
Are Expensive Rods Truly Worth Its Amount?
Buying an expensive rod doesn’t guarantee a high performance if the quality is bad. In fact, a cheaper one of good quality can be better with an expensive one of bad quality. Therefore, you have to check the materials. By having an expensive rod with premium materials, your fly rod should perform better. If your casting skill is great, that is a bonus. In short, an expensive rod of high-quality material is definitely worth the money.
Conclusion
Fly rods are expensive fishing equipment that is effective during fishing activities. Its components and materials make it a strong piece that holds tight to its prey even in adverse weather conditions. If you don’t have one, you may be at loss and waste your energy all day if you are at the sea. However, if you intend to achieve something, having a fly rod is not a bad idea. With a top-notch skill set and great fly rods, you will catch your prey without much stress and sail away.