The 12 Best Fly Fishing Rod & Reel Combos for The Money (Complete Guide & Reviews 2024)

Do you know what’s better than a fishing rod? A fishing rod and a reel.

By finding the best fly rod and reel combo, you can ensure that you’ve got a sweet setup where each part compliments the other, and it can save you time and money too!

I’ve spent a bit of time looking through some great fly fishing combos, and I’d like to show you a few.

I’ll also give you some guidance on some of the things that you need to look for.

Fly fishing is a fun and rewarding sport, but it can be complex and overwhelming for beginners. There are many different types of equipment to choose from, and it can be difficult to know where to start.

One of the best ways for beginners to get started in fly fishing is to purchase a fly rod and reel combo. These combo packages are designed specifically for beginners, and they include everything you need to get started.

The rods are usually shorter and lighter, which makes them easier to handle. The reel is also pre-spooled with line, so you don’t have to worry about choosing the right type of line or spooling it correctly. Most importantly, combo packages are often very affordable, so you can get started without breaking the bank.

So if you’re interested in learning fly fishing, be sure to look for a fly rod and reel combo package. It’s the best way to get started in this wonderful sport.

There are a few fly rod and reel combos that I would recommend.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get started with minimal risk, then the Cabelas Big Horn is the best bet. It’s cheap, easy to find and use, and will handle almost any situation.

The Echo Lift Kit is a great option for fishermen who want a high-quality product from a reputable brand but don’t want to spend a lot of money.

The kit includes a lifting harness, line, and handle, and is made from durable materials that will last for years. The Echo Lift Kit is easy to use and can be set up in minutes, making it ideal for fishermen who want to get on the water quickly and efficiently. The kit is also very versatile and can be used for a variety of different fishing styles, making it a great choice for anglers of all levels.

Whether you’re just getting started in fishing or are an experienced angler looking for a reliable lifting solution, the Echo Lift Kit is a great option.

When it comes to picking out the ideal fly fishing equipment, it really depends on what you value most. If price is no object and you’re looking for the very best in terms of materials and performance, then you’ll want to check out the TFO NXT Black Label Kit.

Its components are all top-of-the-line, from the rod to the reel to the line. It’s great to cast with and has a smooth drag that makes reeling in fish a breeze. The sleek black finish is sure to turn heads out on the water. So if you’re looking for the best of the best, the TFO NXT Black Label Kit is definitely worth checking out.

The fly rod reel combo is an area of the market where new products are constantly coming out and everyone’s preferences vary greatly.

Make sure to read through all of the reviews and information to get a good understanding of what you are looking for so you can make the right decision.

Top 12 Best Fly Rod & Reel Combos 2024

Orvis Encounter 5-Weight Fly Rod Outfit

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If you’ve seen my article on the best beginner fly rods, you’ll already know how much I rate this rod. When combined with the equally awesome Orvis encounter reel, you’ve got a setup that is a force to be reckoned with.

The rod is medium to fast action, giving plenty of control and excellent line pickup when casting. The fact that it is just a little shorter than 9′ means you’ll get a great degree of control and superb accuracy, perfect for landing a nymph slap bang on a trout’s nose.

And it doesn’t stop there.

In this fly fishing combo, you’ll also get the Orvis encounter reel. When products are designed to work together, it makes sense to use them. This reel is perfectly balanced when mounted on the rod and offers a pretty crisp performance.

As an additional bonus, you’ll also get a weight-forward floating line and backing. So aside from the flies and the leader, you’re pretty much good to go.

Pros

• Amazing value.
• A really nicely balanced setup.
• It’s Orvis!

Cons

• If you are looking to fish bigger water, this setup might be a touch on the ‘small side’.

Takeaway

I haven’t got a bad word to say about Orvis, simply put, their gear works. If you are just starting out, this is one of the best entry-level fly rod combo deals that I have seen. Hell, I’m not entry-level, and I want one.

Redington Path Fly Rod Kit

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Now, this is sweet…

Redington is fast becoming my go-to choice when I want something new but don’t want to break the bank.

Simply put…

Redington makes great fly fishing gear. This could easily be a contender for the best beginner fly rod and reel combo. Let me talk you through it.

On opening the included Cordoba rod tube (with room for your attached reel, too), you’ll be presented with a 9′ rod rated at #5 weight. This is the ideal size and weight for those looking for a good all-rounder.

It’s easy to assemble, and Redington has been kind enough to place alignment dots on each of the 4 pieces.

The cork handle looks and feels really good quality. Once assembled, the rod comes into its own. The medium-fast action has a nice responsive feel, and it casts like a dream.

And the reel…

My my, this setup feels like something that should cost 3 times more. The Crosswater reel comes preloaded with Rio mainstream weight forward line (that’s pretty premium right there). The reel is solid with a big arbor, manufactured from anodized aluminum. It’s pretty resilient.

And it’s not going to go anywhere. There is a dual screw locking system mounted below a wood insert on the handle. Classy.

Pros

• Great casting action and a really responsive rod.
• The reel is supremely high quality.
• Included Rio line!

Cons

• Honestly? I can’t fault it. It’s one of the best beginner fly rod combos I’ve seen.

Takeaway

Here look, I don’t mean to be all gushy about Redington… But this is a great deal. I wish these kinds of combos existed when I was just starting out. The rod casts nicely, the reel is pretty solid, and the setup works well together. You won’t be disappointed.

Wild Water Fly Fishing Rod Combo

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Ok, so Wild Water isn’t a mainstream brand. But when you are battling a big old rainbow, is that honestly what you are going to be thinking about?

This is a great budget option and will allow you to get kitted out for a low price. For the money, it’s a pretty good performer.

Here’s what you need to know.

Just as with some premium fly fishing combos, you’ll find a graphite 9′ medium-fast action rod. It weighs about 4.4 ounces, so it is light enough to give you a full day’s fishing without getting arm ache.

The rod has an etched laser butt and a dual reel lock. The stripper guide is stainless steel leading to silicon carbide rings, so it should be pretty durable.

The reel is a die-cast aluminum frame with an adjustable click-drag. These are both attributes that you’d expect to find on a reel costing the same as the entire combo!

And here’s the great thing… This combo also comes with a pre-installed line, backing, leader, and even some flies!

Now you will probably want to upgrade these at some point, but if you are looking to get out fishing, you are getting amazing value.

Pros

• Pretty much all you need to start fly fishing.
• Rod and reel are both pretty solid.
• Amazing value.

Cons

• Ok, let us be upfront. This isn’t going to be your ‘lifetime’ rod. There is better out there (but not for this price).

Takeaway

As a really cheap way to start fly fishing, this is the setup for you. The amount of extras alone makes it worth it. This is a great set to start with before you fine-tune and figure out what you want long-term.

Kalex XF2 Fly Fishing Combo

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If you are looking to get started on an absolutely minimum budget, this could be the fly rod and reel combo for you. There’s nothing fancy here, and you won’t find heaps of technology, but you’ll be out on the water in no time.

The setup includes a 9′ fast action rod and a pre-spooled aluminum reel.

Speaking of the reel, again, you get what you pay for. It is a little on the heavy side, and while there is a nod to cut out sections on either side of the spool, you won’t find the futuristic look of more premium offerings. That said, it holds the line and has a decent drag.

Full disclosure.

The line is Ok, but it isn’t great. If you fit a more premium line, you’ll find your fishing experience is transformed. The included flies are a nice bonus too and should bag you a few trout.

Pros

• Great if you are on a budget.
• Well balanced with lots of extras.

Cons

• It’s a bit heavy.
• It isn’t the most technologically advanced.

Takeaway

Ok, so it’s bare-bones, but the included extras make it worth a look. You’ll be able to cast and catch fish with it. This setup will be ideal if you bring a buddy and don’t want to risk inexperienced hands damaging your more expensive gear.

Echo Base Fly Rod Kit

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Echo has always been a brand that offers quality performance with their equipment. This is no different when it comes to combo packs.

If you want to get started with fly fishing but don’t want to overthink it, the Echo Lift Kit is a great option. It comes with everything you need to get started, including a rod, reel, line, and leader.

The Echo Lift kit is a great choice for anglers who are looking for a reel and rod that can handle almost any fishing situation.

The reel is smooth and has great drag performance, while the rod is made of high-quality material that is highly capable for casting.

This makes the Echo Lift kit a great choice for anglers who want a reel and rod that can handle almost any fishing situation.

Pros

• High-quality material.
• Versatile fishing performance.
• Easy and highly capable casting.
• Smooth reel.

Cons

• Higher price point for a rod reel combo.

Takeaway

The rod is made from high-quality graphite, so it’s lightweight and durable. The reel is pre-loaded with backing and line, and the leader is tapered for easy casting.

The Echo Lift Kit is a great option for anyone who wants to get started with fly fishing without spending a lot of money.

Buying Guide to Fly Fishing Rod & Reel Combos

We all like a choice, but it can be difficult to know what you need when given a whole range of options.

Here are the main things you should consider when looking for the best beginner fly fishing combo.

Balance

Ok, what do I mean by ‘balance’?

Well, it is quite simple. I mean that you don’t want the traits of either the rod or the reel to work against the other. Essentially the rod should match the reel, and the reel should match the rod.

The good thing about buying a fly rod and reel combo is that (provided you choose something half decent) the manufacturer should have done the hard work for you.

With big names like Redington and Orvis, you can be sure that they know what they are doing and have created an ideal pairing. But you can achieve a similar standard with budget brands, provided you know what to look for.

Look for reels and rods that share the same name and model number. If you want an example, check out the clearwater kit above, as it is one of the best on my list.

Where to Start?

In fly fishing, the rod, reel, and line all interact to make up the perfect team. Each has a significant effect on how your setup behaves.

But I’ll make it easy.

Make your starting point the rod… And then work back from there.

The Rod

Your rod choice will primarily be dictated by where you fish. Here’s some guidance about rods:

Length

I have a handy rule of thumb that works well. Bigger water equals bigger rods. Smaller water equals smaller rods. If you want a good all-rounder go for something in the region of 9-10′. This will be easy to cast and will cover you for both smaller and bigger waters.

If you know that you’ll only be fishing in big lakes, go a little higher. If you only intend to fish brooks and streams, you can dip a little below.

Action

I don’t normally deal in absolutes… But when I do, I say this…

Go for a medium to fast action rod.

They are easy to cast, have plenty of backbone to pull in lots of different sized fish, and you’ll generally be covered for 90% of the fishing you could ever hope to do. If you go too soft on the rod, you’ll find it hard to control your cast, end up with tangles, and generally find it harder.

Fast action rods are more responsive. They keep you in better contact with your line, which means you can react quickly when a fish takes the fly.

While it is preferred, you can test a fly rod action without casting. This video shows you how:

Weight

When I talk about a rod’s ‘weight,’ I am not referring to how ‘heavy’ it is in pounds and ounces. (although this is also important). You’ll see a little number printed on the side of the blank.

It looks like this…

Lighter lines are used in ultra-light setups. Heavier lines are used for battling monsters like Tarpon and Kingfish.

So which to choose?

A great middle ground and benchmark is a #5 weight rod. This is heavy enough to cover you for most situations but light enough that casting is still really easy. A number on either side of this won’t make a massive difference, but treat a #5 weight rod as the ‘standard’ and work from there.

The Reel

So now you have chosen the rod, the reel must follow, right?

Unlike in other forms of fishing, the reel isn’t quite as important. In fly fishing, consider the reel more as a portable rod-mounted line holder. In freshwater fishing, you tend to play the fish using your hands on the line instead of winding it in on the reel.

It’s slightly different with saltwater fly reels. If you are looking for them, head to my dedicated saltwater fly reel article here.

However, there are still a few things you need to look at when it comes to fly fishing reels.

Weight

Unlike the rod, when I talk about reels, I really do mean ‘how heavy the reel is’. The reel is normally heavier than the rod, and when it is loaded with backing and line can actually weigh more than you’d think.

That’s right, fly reels are loaded with two different types of lines at once! If you want to know how to set up a fly reel for the first time, here’s a handy video:

While the backing and line remain pretty standard in how much it weighs, you can alter the reel’s empty weight.

Here’s what I recommend.

Choose something as light as possible. Trust me, after a full day of fishing, your wrists and arms will thank you.

Capacity

I said we choose a combo by starting with the rod. But this has a bearing on your reel choice.

Here’s the reason.

The rod dictates the line rating, and the line rating dictates what capacity of reel you need. Go too thick with the line and too small on the reel, and you are going to end up with something that is jam-packed and difficult to use.

Buying a combo means this shouldn’t be an issue, but always take care to select something with a nice big spool.

Durability

If you are buying a fly rod combo, you are likely trying to save money. And of course, you will. But to get the most out of your investment, you want your gear to last.

Here’s a simple fact.

Your reel will get wet. As a result, be sure to choose those combo deals that offer a reel that will be durable. Coatings and anodization are great things to prevent rust.

Should I Buy a Combo Fly Rod and Reel Package or Separate?

That is a personal choice and entirely up to you.

But listen to this…

I’ve seen plenty of newbies struggle with a mismatched setup. I’ve also seen guys drop hundreds of dollars on a reel that they have paired up with a trashy rod. So here’s my advice…

If you are brand new to fly fishing, a combo package makes a great choice. Remember, you can still ‘tweak’ the combo at a later date. If something isn’t quite working out, say your reel, there are plenty of options to swap it out for something else.

Want an example? Check out my guide on the best budget fly reels. You could very easily (and cheaply) change your setup.

Buying individual components does give you flexibility, but it is easy to get it wrong if you don’t know what you are looking for. A combo is great for beginners.

FAQs

There are a lot of questions that come up fairly frequently when discussing fly rod and reel combos.

The most common ones are answered below.

What is a fly rod and reel combo?

A fly rod and reel combo is a set of fishing equipment that includes a rod and a reel designed to work together. The reel is typically attached to the rod via a metal connector, and the two pieces of equipment are designed to be used together for the best results.

Are rod and reel combos any good?

Fishing rod and reel combos are a great way for new anglers to get started in the sport. These combos are generally well-balanced and come in a wide variety of setups, making it easy to find one that is suitable for the type of fish you are targeting.

Most combos come with all the necessary accessories, such as line, lures, and hooks. This can be a great convenience for beginners who may not have all the gear needed to get started fishing on their own.

How do you match a fly rod, reel and fly line?

Many beginner fly anglers are intimidated by the process of putting together a balanced fly fishing rig. However, it’s actually quite simple. The first step is to match the numbers on the fly line to the numbers on the fly rod and reel.

For instance, you would use a 5-weight fly line with a 5-weight rod and spool it onto a 4/5/6 reel. The next step is to choose the appropriate leader and tippet for the type of fish you’re targeting.

Finally, determine what size and type of flies you need based on the fish species, water conditions and time of year. With a little practice, assembling a balanced fly fishing rig will become second nature.

What fly rod weight is most versatile?

Rods come in different lengths and weights, and each one is designed for specific types of fishing. If you’re just getting started, it can be overwhelming to try to figure out which rod is right for you.

However, it is fairly consensus throughout the fly fishing world that a 9 inch rod with a 5wt provides the most versatility. Whether you’re fishing in a lake, creek or river, a 9′ 5-weight rod will give you the flexibility to catch a wide variety of fish.

So if you’re not sure where you’ll be fishing, or if you want to be prepared for any situation, a 9′ 5-weight rod is the way to go.

Does a fly reel have to match a rod?

It’s important to choose a fly rod that matches the weight of your reel and fly line. If the components are different weights, they won’t work together properly.

This can be confusing, but it’s actually quite simple: make sure your fly rod, reel, and line all have the same weight.

Is the rod or the reel more important?

The rod is the most important component. The right rod will be based on your budget and type of fishing. The rod is responsible for casting, lure action, and fighting the fish.

Summary

The best fly rod and reel combos will save you time and money while still allowing you to get a great fishing gear setup.

Some of my suggestions above present natural pairings that you’d end up choosing individually anyway. The main difference is they cost a lot less when bought as a package.

If you are looking to get kitted out, here’s my essential list for fly fishing. What’s your perfect fly rod and reel pairing? Let me know in the comments.