Here Are The Best Fly Fishing Combos
Stepping into a fly fishing store can be overwhelming. Rows of rods, reels, and gear stretch as far as the eye can see. For a beginner, it’s hard to know where to start.
Choosing the right fly fishing combo is key to enjoying this sport. A good setup can make learning easier and more fun. But with so many options, how do you pick?
We’ve done the hard work for you. Our team has searched high and low for the best beginner fly fishing combos. We looked at quality, ease of use, and value for money.
In this guide, we’ll share our top picks. These combos are perfect for those just starting out. They offer everything you need to cast your first line and reel in your first catch.
Get ready to discover the gear that will kick-start your fly fishing journey. Let’s explore the best fly fishing combos that will have you fishing like a pro in no time. And if you’re interested in other types of fishing, we’ve got you covered too. From ice fishing essentials for walleye to the best fly fishing gloves, we have guides for all your fishing needs.
Redington Path II Combo
The Redington Path II Combo is a popular choice for beginners in fly fishing. This $230 setup includes a rod, reel, line, and case. The medium-fast action rod aims to balance ease of use with performance.
The Redington Path II rod has a sleek look with its laser-etched wooden reel seat. It comes in different weights for various fishing needs. The rod’s lifetime warranty offers peace of mind for new anglers.
The Crosswater reel that comes with the combo is pre-spooled with RIO Mainstream fly line. This takes the guesswork out of matching line to rod. The reel has a large arbor design for faster line retrieval.
For storage and travel, the combo includes a Cordura rod tube. This helps protect your gear when not in use or on the go.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Ready to use out of the box | Reel warranty only 1 year |
| Lifetime warranty on rod | Reel made of composite material |
| Good for beginners | May not satisfy advanced anglers |
| Versatile for different waters | Some find it less accurate at longer distances |
Who Is This For?
The Redington Path II Combo is best for newcomers to fly fishing. Its medium-fast action helps beginners learn proper casting techniques. The rod is forgiving enough for those still mastering their cast.
This fly fishing combo works well in various settings. Lighter weights are great for small streams and trout. Heavier options can handle larger fish and saltwater use.
Budget-conscious anglers will appreciate the value. The Redington Path II offers decent quality without breaking the bank. It’s also a solid choice for occasional anglers who don’t need high-end gear.
More experienced fly fishers might find Redington Path II lacking in some areas. But for its price point, it offers a good starting point for those entering the world of fly fishing.
Orvis Clearwater Outfit
The Orvis Clearwater Outfit is a popular fly fishing combo for beginners and intermediate anglers. At $419, this setup includes a rod, reel, line, backing, and tube. The Clearwater rod offers a medium action that’s smooth and balanced, making it easier for new fly fishers to cast.
Orvis designed the Clearwater rod with a black nickel aluminum reel seat and chrome snake guides. The rod’s medium flex helps in presenting flies gently on the water. This can be crucial when trying not to spook fish.
The Clearwater Large Arbor reel comes pre-spooled with Orvis Clearwater fly line. This matching ensures optimal performance right out of the box. The reel’s large arbor design allows for quicker line retrieval, which can be helpful when fighting fish.
Orvis backs the Clearwater Outfit with a 25-year warranty. This long-term guarantee adds value to the combo, especially for those new to fly fishing who want a reliable setup.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Complete ready-to-fish package | Higher price point for beginners |
| 25-year warranty | May be overkill for casual anglers |
| Smooth, medium action good for learning | Some find the rod too stiff |
| Versatile for various fishing situations | Reel quality not on par with high-end models |
Who Is This For?
The Orvis Clearwater Outfit is ideal for serious beginners and intermediate fly fishers. Its medium action suits those learning proper casting techniques. The combo’s versatility allows anglers to fish in different waters and for various species.
This fly fishing combo works well for those willing to invest in quality gear from the start. The Clearwater Outfit’s durability and warranty make it a good long-term choice. It can grow with an angler’s skills over time.
Casual anglers might find the Orvis Clearwater Outfit more than they need. However, for those committed to improving their fly fishing skills, this combo offers a solid foundation. It balances quality and performance without reaching the price of top-tier gear.
Greys Fin Fly Combo
The Greys Fin Fly Combo is a versatile fly fishing setup for beginners and intermediate anglers. This combo includes a fast-action 4-piece rod, a Fin fly reel, and a twin-color floating line. The rod features an AA cork handle and an alloy and wood reel seat, giving it a sleek look.
The Greys Fin fly rod has double foot snake guides with angled wire, helping prevent line tangles during retrieval. Lined stripper guides allow for better control of fly line stripping, useful when varying retrieval rates to entice trout.
The Fin fly reel is made of durable injection-molded aluminum with a unique multi-color finish. It features a full rulon disc brake system for smooth drag and a large arbor spool for quick line retrieval. The enclosed frame design prevents line escape.
The combo comes with a pre-spooled twin-color floating line. The color change marks the line’s sweet spot, aiding in casting performance. A front welded loop allows for easy leader changes, suiting anglers of all skill levels.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Ready to fish out of the box | May not satisfy advanced anglers |
| Fast-action rod good for learning | Some find the reel drag noisy |
| Versatile for different fishing situations | Line may be affected by wind |
| Includes rod and reel travel case | Higher price point for beginners |
Who Is This For?
The Greys Fin Fly Combo is ideal for beginners looking to start fly fishing with quality gear. Its fast-action rod helps new anglers develop proper casting techniques. The combo’s versatility allows fishing in various waters, from small streams to large reservoirs.
Intermediate anglers will also appreciate the Greys Fin Fly Combo. It offers good performance without breaking the bank, making it a solid choice for those upgrading from entry-level gear. The combo’s durability and included travel case make it suitable for anglers who frequently travel to different fishing spots.
This fly fishing combo provides a balanced setup that takes the guesswork out of matching rod, reel, and line. It’s perfect for those who want to focus on improving their fly fishing skills rather than worrying about gear selection.
Centerpin Fishing Combo
Centerpin fishing combos offer a unique approach to fly fishing. These setups typically include a long rod, usually 11 to 14 feet, and a free-spinning reel. The Centerpin combo allows for a natural drift of the bait or fly in moving water.
The rod in a Centerpin combo is designed to be flexible and sensitive. This helps anglers detect even slight bites from fish. The long length also aids in keeping more line off the water, improving presentation.
Centerpin reels are large and spin freely on their axis. This design lets line flow smoothly off the reel, matching the current’s speed. Many anglers find this creates a more natural presentation than traditional fly fishing methods.
Most Centerpin combos come with a float and split shots. These help control the depth of your bait or fly. The arrangement ensures your offering is the first thing fish see in the water.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Natural drift presentation | Steep learning curve |
| Good for large rivers | Can be expensive |
| Effective for steelhead and salmon | Limited casting distance |
| Sensitive bite detection | Bulky to transport |
Who Is This For?
Centerpin fishing combos are best for anglers looking to specialize in river fishing. They excel at targeting steelhead, salmon, and large trout in moving water. Beginners interested in this technique will find a combo a good starting point.
These setups work well for patient anglers who enjoy a methodical approach. They’re particularly suited for those fishing wide rivers or streams with consistent current. Centerpin combos can be effective year-round, adapting to different seasons and water conditions.