We get questions about specific rod models all the time. "How does the 3wt compare to the 4wt?" and "When should I use this rod?" and "What line works best on this rod?". In an attempt to provide better info so you can make a more informed buying decision, we decided to start a 'model-by-model' blog series. We traveled to the Orvis headquarters in Manchester, VT this fall and had the chance to cast each and every rod in the 3D series. This article is designed to pass that info along to you. Of course, like our shootouts and other casting commentaries, these mini-reviews are based on our casting style and preferences. Your mileage may vary. Read on to see what we liked (and didn't like) about the 3D rod series.
Maybe you're an experienced Bass angler who's looking to get into fly fishing. Maybe you've fly fished for Bass all your life. Whether you're looking to put together a complete setup for Bass or you're looking for the perfect fly line that fits your angling style, this article breaks down how to choose the best fly line for Bass. Learn when to use different types of lines and why. Read on to become a better Bass angler with a fly rod.
Bonefish are one of the most popular gamefish in tropical saltwater environments. These fish offer a challenging target to anglers who prefer sight fishing and careful wading. Bonefish have a mixed diet of crabs, shrimp, small baitfish, and more and are often found tailing on sandy flats. Because they’re found in tropical saltwater conditions, choose a tropical saltwater fly line. Seems intuitive, right? Want to learn more? Read on.
This versatile pattern moves water to attract Bull Redfish from a mile away... Well, almost. If you're looking for a pattern that creates a commotion and pushes water, you've found it. The Grass Monkey is designed to sink and hover which makes it a great fly for fish feeding in shallow water or near the surface. The large head of the fly creates a big push of water to attract the big-mouthed predators on the block. Redfish will eat this fly as a baitfish, shrimp, and sometimes even a fleeing crab. Tune in as Jared teaches us how to tie the Grass Monkey with step-by-step instructions with photos, a video, and much more.
The Orvis Helios 3F Series (along with the Helios 3D Series) replaces the much-loved Orvis Helios 2 Rod Series as Orvis' flagship fly rod. Orvis has packed a bunch of technological advancements into these rods and they're lighter, more accurate, and more dynamic than ever before. If Orvis wasn't at the top of the fly rod game before with the Helios 2, they are now with the Helios 3. What's better? The team over at Orvis designed the 3F Series to include rods that are highly specialized, rods that are versatile, and rods that shocked us with their quirky ability to offer unexpected performance. After a visit to the Orvis headquarters and the thorough casting of each and every rod model, we've put together a detailed model-by-model review of one of the most popular freshwater fly rod series to date. Read on to find out more about every model of the Helios 3F.
Monster Redfish don't come easy. We learned that the hard way during our 2020 New Years trip to New Orleans to fish for Redfish on the fly. Weather, water conditions, storms, and more required plan changes, city exploration, and tough fishing. That being said, we found some trophy fish that made the whole trip worthwhile. Read on to get the full report including advice, recommendations, tons of photos, and much more.
The Gurgler is a great pattern for aggressive fish in both freshwater and saltwater. This fly can imitate a frog, mouse, and more for Bass laid up on weed beds or Redfish in the marsh. This fly can either be stripped aggressively to fool ambush feeders or defensive fish like Pike or stripped slowly to imitate a baitfish. However you fish it, this is one of the most popular fly patterns for aggressive fish. It can be tied in a variety of styles and colors... here's our take including videos, photos, step-by-step instructions, and much more.
Small stream Trout beware... this streamer gets CRUSHED in shallow water. The Matuka streamer is originally a New Zealand pattern and is made to imitate a Sculpin or small baitfish. This pattern works well across the US and beyond for trout looking for a protein-filled meal. This pattern can be stripped or swung and creates a nice profile in the water. If you're doing any trout fishing it's worth carrying a few of these in your box. Read on to find out how to tie this killer trout pattern including step-by-step instructions, videos, and more.
The Rhody Flatwing is a stellar saltwater pattern that can be tweaked to imitate a variety of saltwater baitfish. This pattern is perfect for Stripers, flats fish, and can even be used in freshwater for Bass. Simple streamer patterns are a staple in saltwater fishing and this fly should be in every avid angler's fly box. Tune in as Jared shows the necessary steps to tie this famous pattern.
Carp are a tough fish to catch, especially on a fly rod. They can be wary, picky, and spooky. That being said, they're tons of fun to catch and can provide the angler with some of the best sight fishing available in freshwater. If you're a Carp enthusiast or just looking for insider info, read on to find out how to increases your chances of success when Carp fishing.
