Greetings, Long Rodders. I’ve decided to start harrassing the trout in the Saluda here in Cola. Today I purchased a St. Croix Avid 9’ 5 wt and a TFO Midge 4/5 reel. I did not buy any line as I wanted to consult with y’all for recommendations as to type and manufacturer. Advice on leaders, flies or anything else a novice might need is greatly appreciated.
Thanx in advance, Jim
I use WF floating Scientific Anglers on my trout rod.
I like Orvis or Climax braided tapered leaders. I’m a big fan of light tippet either 1.2 or 2 pound (7x or 8x depending on the maker)
You may want a heavier tippet whileyou get used to gentle hook sets.
If you’r efishing freshly stocked trout and they haven’t become leader shy you can get away with up to 7 pound test mono or fluoro for your tippet.
So much water, So little time
quote:
Originally posted by Too BusyI use WF floating Scientific Anglers on my trout rod.
I like Orvis or Climax braided tapered leaders. I’m a big fan of light tippet either 1.2 or 2 pound (7x or 8x depending on the maker)
You may want a heavier tippet whileyou get used to gentle hook sets.If you’r efishing freshly stocked trout and they haven’t become leader shy you can get away with up to 7 pound test mono or fluoro for your tippet.
I agree with you on the lighter tippets in skinny or gin clear water but there is a lot of trash,grass, wood, and rocks in that river. If you hook a decent fish you will get your feelings hurt. That water is not exactly clear so you can cheat a little. Like you said most of them are dumb stockers anyway. I have had no problem with 5X or 6X. It is according to what fly I am chunking. Good luck.
So much water, So little time
For fly line I’ve owned many and for fishing smaller weight rods with casts less than 40 or so feet the Wulff Triangle Taper is the best line around. It roll casts much easier than any weight forward line. I use it exclusively on both my trout rods (I live in the mountains and this is what I do most).
As for tippet, I rarely see the need to go below 6x, and usually stick with 5x. I would stick with this until you can get the feel of it. And the brand of tippet also makes a difference, get something good (not from Wal Mart!). Rio is common and dependable.
Flies…no need to get fancy in the beginning. Just get flies that are well made. If you send me an email with your address I’d be glad to send you a dozen or so flies that catch fish. If you’re looking to buy some at a good price look at Blue Fly Cafe-the flies I’ve gotten from them have been well tied and won’t break the bank. (http://www.blueflycafe.com/)
Since I’ve not fished there I won’t offer advise on what will work there.
Pay more attention to presentation and drift. That’s what will catch you more fish.
Good Luck,
Mike
Mike, Thank You for your gracious offer. Email sent.
Rookie and TB, thanx guys. The reel came with an extra spool, so, I may load one with SA and the other with Wulff. Looking forward to figuring this out. I’ll let you know how it goes.