Hi! I’m looking for a rod, reel, and line combo that won’t break the bank, but is also good enough to not rust solid in the salty waters off Honolulu. I don’t have any friends in this hobby yet so I’m hoping you fine fellows can learn me some options that ChatGPT hasn’t recommended. I honestly didn’t think this hobby wouldn’t be this expensive, but here I am.
My first choice was the Orvis Clearwater® 8-Weight 9’ Fly Rod Saltwater Outfit. This has the clearwater rod and reel, but I thought, “$649 is quite a bit to spend on a premier brand setup when I’m new to the hobby” so I asked the ChatGPT, which recommended Redington. I found the Redington Wrangler Fly Fishing Kit, Medium Fast Action Rod, Crosswater Reel, Fly Line, Leader, & Carrying Case for $329, which really agrees with my wallet. However, I’ve heard that sealed drags are important in salt water, and my intense Googling showed that the Crosswater Reel is “kinda sorta sealed” so I’m hesitant to pull the trigger on this. I found the Redington Grande reel that is fully sealed, but then the price jumps up to my original Orvis setup.
What do you guys think? Should I just pull the trigger on the Orvis and get out there? Are there any other brands worth exploring? So far with these two I end up at spending tons of money lol.
I’ve been to the flats three times with my $65 Walmart.com setup. The first time I saw PLENTY of bone fish, but I just couldn’t cast far enough to reach them because it was my first time. The second time I went I saw ZERO fish, but had a great time, and someone even “borrowed” my kayak (I got it back.) The third time I went I saw fish! I believe I got a nibble after a strip, and I managed to cast directly on top of a fish instead of in front of it, which scared it right out of the water. Even though I didn’t catch anything I had a fun time practicing and scaring the fish.
Posted by argyle9000
4 Comments
Check this out, [Redington Tropical Saltwater 890-4 Rod and Reel Field Kit – 8wt, 9′, 4-Piece – Save 48%](https://www.sierra.com/redington-tropical-saltwater-890-4-rod-and-reel-field-kit-8wt-9-4-piece~p~8uawy/)
Quality line and reel, rod is kind of lackluster. But pretty solid value for the money. I own one and it felt good enough to use, not cheap. Might consider selling it if you are interested. Bought on a whim for a FL trip and used it three times on the beach.
Get the Redington Saltwater combo it’s the same/similar price has better rod/reel for what you’re trying to do. Or put together rod/reel/line yourself or with help to save $100.
Sealed drag is absolutely not needed. I fish nothing but cork drag reels which are all open. I have years on them and thousands of fish to hand.
Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Saltwater 8 wt rod on Sierra Trading Post for 80 bucks. Lamson Liquid Max reel for 200. I’d go that route to get started. Solid stuff and cheap