$200 vs $900 fly fishing rod: Which is better??
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- Опубліковано 8 лют 2025
- EXPENSIVE VS CHEAP FLY ROD: WHICH IS BETTER?
LIKE the video and leave a COMMENT (with your IG handle or some way to contact you) for a chance to win a new Euro Nymphing Rod.
In this video Andrew and I bought the most expensive fly rod we could find and bought one of the cheapest fly rods we could find and spent a day fishing with both of them to compare which one was better. We caught multiple brown trout and rainbow trout and got to test the rods on some nice fish. At the end of the day we talked about the 2 rods and compared their pros and cons.
WORD OF ADVICE: if you think spending more money on a rod or reel is going to make you a better fisherman than you're wrong. At the end of the day catching fish is up to your skills as a fisherman and has little to do with your equipment. If you get to the point where you fish so much that spending nearly a grand on a rod seems worth it to you then go for it, but for the average angler it's not worth the money.
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Trippin on trout's latest adventure: • REMOTE FISHING for BRO...
You guys remind of when I was young and couldn't get enough of fly fishing. I'm 70 now and feel young watching you fish. Keep the enthusiasm going it only gets better, plus you have access to so much great equipment. I started with an 8' Fenwick 6wt glass rod that caught 7" brook trout to 31" steelhead. Stay true and don't get caught up in the hype and fashion that seems to have permeated fly fishing. Keep casting.
I'm quite a bit younger at fifty. Fished since I was twelve or so (no fishing people in my family besides a great uncle. I'm the first and only bitten by the bug).
Just picked up fly fishing this year and enjoy it immensely. It was always on my list of things to do and it doesn't disappoint.
But I digress, I wanted to compliment you on your words of advice.
Don't get caught up in hype.
Use and practice with what you got and it will do the job (unless completely rubbish which is rare these days).
Not only with fly fishing. With any hobby and to a certain extend profession.
I also make electric music and play the guitar. There is always more and better equipment. And there is a whole media apparatus hell bent on selling you said items.
Nine out of ten times the stuff you have will do. Just use it with a smile on your face as often as you can.
If you're new to any hobby, we live in a golden age. Nine out of ten times an affordable rod, guitar or whatever you fancy will do the job. You get better by practice, not new stuff (could even hold you back. When you're not proficient yet a new tool just adds to the learning. New stuff happens, is it the tool or your skills? You need to be proficient enough to differentiate between the two)
Great vid as always. I’m still using an 8’ Fenwick Rod from the 1970’s. The fish don’t care what equip you’re using. Need to be able to read the water; choose the correct fly; and present it correctly.
Yep couldn't agree more!!
I was just going to say the same thing.
Couldn't agree with you more! I started fly fishing many years ago with a Fenwick 7.5 - 5 weight and though I don't use it very often because I seldom go small stream fishing which is what I bought it for. Now I know the newer rods have way more power and I use a Sage for long casts but its no more accurate than my old Fenwick which I think is still as accurate as the day I bought it. Different situations require different tools to get the job done quicker and with less fuss but that doesn't mean one tool is better than another, just applied differently.
Common I mean you are totally right but don't make such a big spoiler of the video. Now I already know the conclusion of the video
I see fenwick coming up so much in the comments as I'm looking for my first rod.. It has to be for a reason.
I'm in PA and used to fly fish a lot, but got away from it as the kids grew up and got into athletics. They're all grown now and your channel has gotten me back into wanting to do it again this coming spring. Thanks John and Adrew!
that's awesome! get out there and have some fun.
No matter how expensive the rod is, in the end it comes down to your skill and the most important of all the fly.
Presentation over fly pattern all day long., and when it comes to presentation, a higher quality tool often makes it a lot easier.
And spot
I really don’t think the fly matters all that much. It certainly matters, but significantly less than skill, experience, and knowing how to speak fish.
Not really, the more expensive rods are made better and much easier and enjoyable to fish with.
@@FranklinLive Truth. However, a more expensive rod doesn’t catch fish. You do. Hence skill and knowledge of the target species and it’s water are much more important.
Years ago I bought a 8-1/2 ft 5 weight Korean graphite rod on clearance for $25 based on the recommendation of experienced friends that had purchased it. It casts further than 9' name brand rods and has held up for years. Comparing rods is much like comparing car brands or bullet calibers, each individual has their own preferences. Acquired skills are more important than the rod you are using.
Your last sentence says it all. Thanks for watching!
I have always believed when fishing use what you have and enjoy it. I still have the fly reel a neighbor gave me when I was 10 now I am 64. Probably as less expensive as they come. The rod unfortunately was broken years ago, but anyway I have had as much fun as anyone else over the years with these type rods. Whatever the price is if it makes you happy rock on. Great videos gentlemen. Wish I was there right now. Thanks!
That's awesome!! My original combo I broke in Colorado unfortunately (and through it in a trash can out of frustration).
I got a Scott Session $675 nymph rod for Christmas from my wife. I fished with a friend who has a 10’ 3wt Maxcatch Nano. We both agreed the Nano is a better rod at $150. I sold the Session and bought three Nanos in 10’ 3wt, 9’ 4wt, and 9’ 5wt. Never looking back!
Love your videos, but I’m an old geezer who already has way too many rods - and has no clue what an IG handle is! So, I really don’t want the rod, though euro-nymphing does intrigue me. What I’d really love to win is a half-day fishing outing with you and Andrew! Now THAT would be quite a prize!
That would be fun for sure
That would be the best. You would have a good time and learn so much more
That's actually not a bad idea! And I understand, the rod giveaway certainly isn't attractive to everybody, but I know somebody would enjoy it.
I didn't know what was meant by IG handle either. It has to do with social media. IG = Instagram.
The respect you show for the fish and their environment is commendable. Keep up the great video's.
thank you so much!
Seconded! This fairly new fly fisherman learned about trout redds! ...but I don't wade much since I'm disabled 😂
I have used a st croux 6 lb 10’ rod for 20 years. And I love it. The man running the fly shop in Lander Wy set me up with it for my first fly rod and it.came in around $200 all in 20 years ago
These guys produce some of the best trout fishing content out there, I’m new to fly fishing and they really helped me out by comparing these two rods
Glad you enjoyed and thank you!
If you are new & need help with your casting, go to a big sporting goods store like Cabelas or Bass Pro on the weekends in the spring. They usually have FREE lessons giving with their equipment by an old veteran instructor. Check your local fly shop for help & tips.
I’ve been fishing for around 3is years now, and I’ve absolutely fallen in love with it. It started with summer bass fishing, and now I’ve dipped my feet into fly fishing. I immediately fell in love, and have been landing big rainbows in PA. Unfortunately, some “nature loving” thug took my stuff, and I barely have enough money to replace my stuff with entry level gear (sine I’m only 15).
However, your videos never fail to brighten my day despite my woes. Keep up the great work buddy!!
Excited to finally get into fly fishing! Just ordered my first fly reel/rod combo this morning. Should be here Saturday!
Get some free lessons @ Cabelas or Bass Pro in the spring on the weekends. Also check your local fly shop for tips & gear. These people will help & guide you through, be patient, don't give up, once you learn how to cast, it'll begin very rewarding.
Be patient with yourself and keep up the grind, pick a river system you know has fish in it and have fun
Love that you guys don’t push for the really expensive gear. For as much as you guys do fish, you certainly could justify having all high end gear. Appreciate the humbleness.
Loved seeing what you guys thought about the really expensive one, I’ve always wondered if they actually fished any better than mid range rods or were just the brand name selling. Awesome fish too, it’s crazy that you can catch a big brown and a big bow from the same hole that’s a great fishery!
It is definitely a bit better rod no doubt. Is it worth that much more money? Not sure about that one. Thanks for watching!
i think that the more you develop as an angler, the more you come to appreciate the finer details of expensive gear. in that sense, maybe starting out on cheap gear is better because it helps you really appreciate and exploit the benefits of expensive gear. At the end of the day, you'll catch fish either way, but you might find that eventually upgrading to more expensive gear will aid you in your growth as an angler.
Thank you for the very cool video. When I can't go out, I look to your channel to remind me how great it is to be out on the water.
That would be a nice rod. I got a 70$ combo, 8ft 5 wt. I use it for everything. Never euro nymphed, I mostly streamer fish. Can’t wait for more streamer videos
They're coming!! Thanks for watching!
I had an inexpensive combo that I bought as a teen. I used it as a primary rod and caught hundreds, I still have it 30 years later but it is my leave in the camper rod in case I happen across some water. I now have a newer rod but still under $100 and still catches fish fine. A $200 rod to me would be like the $900 rod to you in comparison. Great video and appreciate you guys showing you don't need to have the top of the line equipment to still have a good time on the water, and catch fish.
Glad you enjoyed the video!
Great review guys. I really appreciate the feedback and the high end/low end rod comparison, because you rarely see them. As you know most people tend to compare rods around the same price point. I would love to add another rod to my quiver. Always good to have a backup or to loan to someone to introduce them to the euro technique. Thank you for the opportunity.
No doubt! Thanks for watching!
Great job guys..keep the content coming..I miss trout fishing since we moved to Bama from Western Maryland 7yrs ago..I trout fished all over MD,WV for 35yrs..so I watch you guys and it takes me back to Home watching you guys..love it and miss it..
No more trout fishing, but I betcha a Dollar that you didn't stop fishing. You just adjusted to "NEW CONDITIONS" Bass, Crappie, Catfish, Blue Gills, Perch & Carp can be just as fun. I live in KC, & the warm weather is easier to catch fish, get yourself a kayak & go out before the Sun cracks up the sky. Top water works wonders. After the sky is cracked switch it subsurface..
Great video! Always wondered the real difference between Low & High besides price. New to ENF and just use a 5wt until I know more. Making several different lines and leaders to see what works for me. Not a lot of people know and try ENF, but I’m excited to use it as a more finesse approach. Thanks for the video guys!
That's awesome!! Good luck out there!
I have a $100 fly rod set up and another that is way more expensive. You can feel the difference, but both have caught tons of fish. Great review!
When casting longer distances is important the rod stiffness can make a difference to your ability to get your fly to the right spot. Some more expensive rods allow you to achieve both the long distance and accuracy required, however; when casting short distances the quality of the rod doesn’t make much difference. I have fished for Tarpon on the flats where long distance and accuracy are key, and in this case having a better quality rod, which are usually more expensive, is important.
i remember my pops telling me ont he water to conserve money, and invest in knowledge. you can buy the craziest stuff but it wont teach you anything. fly selection, patience, and a good heart will yield you a lot more than a 900+.00 setup. great video!
One of my favorite fly fishing equipment manufacturers, the ECHO line is solid - Tim Rajef knows a thing or two about what goes into a good outfit and does it at a great price point. I fish a lot of vintage outfits and love how well they perform. Nothing wrong with having the "best", just know you don't always have to have the "latest and greatest"!
Couldn't agree more!! There will always be something new
Thanks for putting this video out! I have just gotten back into fishing this year. The last I fished was in the mid 90's. I casted lead most of the summer. Starting in September I started fly fishing with a cheap rod from Walmart. Truth be told I have caught more fish with it than I did with the spinning rod this summer. I've fallen in love with fly fishing though and have been looking at Orvis rods. I just haven't known if I would be able to tell the difference in a less expensive rod vs a more expensive rod. This is how I stumbled onto your video. I'm still not sure which way I will go but am so looking forward to getting back out there and catching some more!
I found your videos after searching how to vids for fly fishing and my daughter(5y/o) was harrassing about them being boring. So I switched up and search for some showing more actual fishing. We both enjoyed them. Great videos man!!
Guys your assessment was pretty much spot on. The T & T is definitely a rod for someone who wants to delve into the more critical nuances of quality. You addressed the lightness and differences in feel and sensitivity between the two rods. Other factors to consider might include casting accuracy, tip bounce, tip sensitivity as it applies to fishing 7x and 8x leaders, and fish handling characteristics. Also, how well can the rod cast a micro nymph leader, or a dry dropper set-up, ie. how versatile is it. Just of few questions that would factor in when a final rod decision is made. Thanks for another great video and for your consistent attention to fish handling and obvious love of the sport!
Yeah we went into some more detail but I had to cut some of it out or the video would have been 30 minutes. Although we didn't test versatilely and that's a good one! Glad you enjoyed!
The real test would be the 1992 to 1993 Sage Light Line Series 3wt, 4wt, 9ft Rods. Do a test with that and let us know. Now those are beautiful Rods.
thanks fellas fun watching. I'm looking to start fly fishing.
I really enjoyed the comparison video! Also I really like how you both respect the environment and the fish! Definitely earned a sub! Keep up the good work! Cheers from Australia
Started fly fishing during Covid summer 2020. Can’t get enough now. Keep the vids coming…it’s how I learn! Euro Nymphing is my next skill set.
i have been fly fishing for many years, and teach it for free for whom ever wants to learn... when they ask me about a 100$ rod( cabelas ) or a $800 rod...no names at this point... i ask them this.. you can cast both of these rods and toss a fly out to 30 to 50 feet... and if you were the fish.. do you see the rod...or the fly? my students always say the fly... i tell them also the price of the rod does not increase the fun that you have as the price goes up... i tell them just have fun catching fish.. and dont worry about how much you rod cost...and learn to tie your own flys..it much cheaper when you loose them.... i also will teach anyone that want to, how to tie flys also.. getting folks outdoors and seeing the beauty of the outdoors
I’ve heard some great things about both of those rods and it’s always fun to see somebody test them out and review them! Great video!
Hi I just recently started finishing again. I'm 72 and would love to try this set up. Thanks guys have a Great day .awesome video.
Like that you guys leave the fish in the net and in the water while landing. been doing and preaching this for years! Keep it up
A very informative comparison. Because I’m primarily a Stillwater fisherman the weight difference in the rods is a major factor after 75-100 casts in a day.
Yep, after a long day it can be tough. ESPECIALLY when euro nymphing
Just found your channel and loving it! I just lost my fly rod that I had since I was a kid. I’m rocking a $130 set up right now but it still catches fish!
I thought fly fishing was complicated but after watching this video I really want to try to get into it.
I love your videos you have become my favorite youtuber by far. I had fished for trout with spinning reel for years but your videos got me to try fly fishing I have only been able to try fly fishing one or two times and I have only caught a couple of fish but I absolutely love it now and I would love to be able to try euro nymphing.
Amazing video guys! I 100% agree with you that you do not need a 900 dollar rod to catch fish. I started out with a 60 dollar Cabela’s rod and caught fish.
You and Andrew are some trout catching brothers who make any rod look good. Not many of us could afford or take advantage of an expensive rod, but it is great fun fly fishing with what I have. Mostly I enjoy the purity and simplicity of my inexpensive Tenkara rod. Your videos are my favorites!
Thank you so much! I'm glad you enjoyed!
Been researching euro rods and looked at a lot of videos. I must say your review was very refreshing and informative. Especially liked the correlation been the tools and skill. Thanks
It’s in the individual whether playing an instrument or casting a fly rod, It’s what you can play what you cannot and how you play it… The equipment can compliment or accentuate your skill level or lack of it.. Great video thanks :)
A great comparison. The take away is the more expensive rod has more sensitivity, but the less expensive rod can still catch you great fish.
100%
Thank you for doing this comparison. It's good to know there are fly rods out there that don't break the bank but still have the quality of the more expensive rods. Good fishing to both of you. Keep your lines wet!!!
Glad you enjoyed!!!
I work for a destination spa resort and one of the activities I teach is basic fly casting. Very basic, I'm no Tom Ronsenbauer and I've only recently really got into fly fishing but the biggest complaint from most guest was that fly fishing is just too expensive.
I purchased the cheapest fly rod combo from my local walmart along with a pack of inexpensive flies for less than $60. With this set I've caught Trout, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Bluegill and Perch, some of them actually being my personal best catches. I also use the Orvis Helios 3 which was very expensive and I can cast significantly further without having to double haul but the cheap Cortland rod really isn't bad, I still get 30+ feet out smoothly and it's surprisingly durable, not quite as tough as machined aluminum so the reel could break from a decent drop or fall but it's also $50.
Once again it is good to see you guys together. You guys just ooze competition, reminds of my brother and I. Thanks for braving the cold to bring us this video. Love the train, the bridges and the clear water. I especially loved the "leaf" fish Andrew got. Merry Christmas guys! Not on Instagram but do have an email account.
Been really enjoying your videos! Like how you show you’re whole experience to help people learn to be better fisherman and stewards of the outdoors.
Great video, too many people buying the most expensive stuff, thinking it's going to catch them more fish. Can't beat skills.
Loved the honest feedback. Always wondered where the pricey rods stand out performance wise
Glad you enjoyed!
Nice down to earth and honest assessment here. Fun watching you guys pull beautiful trout up on these rods. Can't wait to get out on the water again.
Just fell in love with fly fishing recently and building up my gear. I tried the Orvis Clearwater and Recon. Thanks for the video.
That's awesome! Glad you're getting into it
I like the way you compare rods and explained the difference in the rods weight and sensitivity for the money .
Echo is great. Redington stuff too. Gear is gear but experience and knowing how to use it is key. Good video!
i agree with most people here , the quality of the rod is not the most important thing here ; you guys demonstrated with your good skills that the most important thing is your skills , how you cast
and chose the proper fly , i dont own expensive rods but functional , would like to have them but i can't ; good luck an make some more fly fishing videos
Yep! Nice Rod! Count me In! Thanks for the chance to win! I am in So Cal and need all the help I can get. Trickling streams, low green lakes, mismanagement, water moratoriums, and all the while our water flows right on by everyone straight to the ocean. Dam-it! Lol! Fairwinds!
I have a watched several of your videos before this one and have enjoyed watching you bushwhack your way into small streams. Keep up the good work.
Great video showing the rod doesn’t mater much as far as catching fish. I’m just getting into fly fishing and enjoy watching your videos.
Gentlemen, I love the channel. I binge watch your videos at least once or twice a week. Keep on making kick ass videos.
That's awesome!! Glad you enjoy them!
Fun video guys! All of these rods will catch fish for sure.
Interestingly there was little or no discussion in your review about casting accuracy of the rods. I've found that most beginners cannot tell much of a difference between the ESN rods due to their simple casting ability. I would think as your casting skills improve you would notice improved casting accuracy and dampening of the the T&T rod over the Echo rod, and at the end of the day that's what you are really paying for IMO.
My first ESN 3wt rod was an affordable Cortland rod and later I picked up a Sage ESN 3wt rod, the Sage is a much better casting rod and I like how it fights fish better. I have a Cortland ESN 4wt for bigger water and it casts pretty good, flights fish in heavy water really well, but the rod weight is very fatiguing after a few hours.
Thank you for your honest and thorough evaluation. I feel much better about not having to spend a ton of money to have productive and enjoyable fishing adventures. Your videos have taught me so much about fly fishing and good sportsmanship. Thank you.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
Gear comparison videos have always been a favorite of mine your findings have been in line with many of the fly fishing products I use.
Love the videos, I'm new to the sport this past year. I've learned a lot from your videos. I haven't become adept in nymphing yet but I'm absolutely hooked on the sport. Thanks for the content! Happy new year!
Really enjoy your videos guys. Currently trying to learn as much about trout fishing and your videos really help. Thanks.
Glad you enjoy!
Great vid guys!
I'm currently using an 8 ft. 4 weight for small streams. Going to look into euro nymphing.
I have an Echo 10'10" switch rod for steelhead and have been quite happy with it so far.
Their service is great. Broke the tip last week and they mailed one to me within a week to Canada.
Cheers.
Great Review and video. Good to see an honest review showing you don’t have to spend a grand to get into a new style of fishing. Thanks for the video.
thank you for watching!
Always love seeing a new video from you. The fishing has been slow up here in Colorado lately and this curbs my itch.
Thanks for the video. Those were some expert netting skills under the bridge.
I've got a $40 white river reel I bought 20 yrs ago with $300 rod both 5 wt. Caught 5lb browns, 3 lb bass and everything in-between. Both still work well.
Bro...your video quality is great...and your editing is superb..you my man just earned a like & subscription...keep up the great work bro
I'm a firm believer that presentation is more important than the rod you're using. As always, GREAT VIDEO!
100% agree! Thanks for watching!
My buddy just got me into fly fishing, I've always used spinning gear. Thanks for the opportunity into winning a nice first fly rod!
I was supposed to go fishing today but got rained out. I watched your video and ate my lunch I packed for my trip. Fun times! Echo makes some great products. Thanks for the great content. Keep up the good work. Merry Christmas!!
hey man good luck out there! Sucks to get rained out but that raising water probably helped you at the end of the day. Thanks for watching and Merry Christmas!
Y'all are my favorite guys on UA-cam. Y'all fish like it's going out of style. I live in the mountains on nc and started nymphing and streamer fish cause of y'all's videos. I caught a hook bill rainbow about 15in on streamer last summer after one of your videos to get me out of the house during covid. Thanks for all y'all do. Keep pushing guys.
That's amazing!! Glad you enjoy the videos!!
Great Video, love the shots of the colored up browns one of my favorite parts of fishing! As to the rods- I like you started with a 200 dollar moonshine rod. I thought it was great have caught hundreds of fish with it. Little over a year ago I upgraded to the the T and T rod and have to say there is a significant difference in my opinion. The weight and balance of the rod are of note. Its so much easier on my arm and shoulder to fish a full day with the T N T especially on multiple day trips. The sensitivity of the rod is also much better I think that is also do to the weight that might lead to more hookups but like you say kind of subjective. In the end I don't think anyone who fishes the two rods back to back would pick the $200 rod if money were not an issue but like the saying goes "buy once cry once"!
I owned a lot of Teir 1 gear since the late 1970s and lost it all in Hurricane Katrina . Since then I have been fishing a pair of Okuma magnitude rod/reel outfits ( 5/6 and 9/10 ) since they came out and I am just as effective . You are correct in saying unless You can fish them side by side Most anglers will never realize the difference . Hell , the fish don't care so have fun and fish .
You boys have come a long ways since your spin casting days!
Nice job. That creek had some nice runs and holes and the trains were a nice touch. 👍
I am so glad I fount your channel. I to see how you guys river fish.
my grandfathers airflow classic 8' 3-5wt is doing just fine for my type of fishing great video
Man, I’ve been on a binge watching your videos. Awesome stuff.
Thank you!!
Nice work I enjoy your videos I leaved in WV for 20 years remembering all the times TU was stocking browns it’s nice to see so many Quality fish caught keep it up ps don’t need the rod do need the videos
I've had the Echo Carbon XL for years and LOVE it. My next one will be another one.
Great video, lol I was waiting for you to get a wack on the thumb, when you were palming your reel! Had a Atlantic salmon teach me that lesson!
Great to hear someone not talk about how you have to have the most exspensive rod!!! Thank you
Glad you enjoyed!!
Haha yalls ability to get all the details on the rods wrong multiple times, and slay at catching fish, cracks me up! These boys are focused on the FISHING, not gear nerds. ✌🏻🤟🏻🐟
I think experience is the most importan aspect. With that experience one might appreciate the differences between rods. The rod is a tool and sometimes it is simply a pleasure to hold a beautifully designed and made screwdriver.
the beat at the start hits so hard. i was playing a game while atching this vid and vibed on the beat
I am using the rod they have at Walmart. You are the only be who got me into fly fishing.
Hey for the Thomas and Thomas, use a paint pen or nail polish and make your alignment dots!! And I'd love to give the other euro rod a good home!! I've been researching euro rods and your right for the money that's the way to go!
Good video. Most people can’t tell the difference between a high priced peace of equipment and a more moderately priced peace of equipment.
Great review guys. Thank you for the opportunity. Loved the honest feedback
Glad you enjoyed the video!
Awesome job guys. Enjoy the straight up observations
I love your videos. I have a Echo Carbon in 5 wt and love it and then again a Sage X. I still pull out the Echo from time to time.
Good comparison. Nice to see you don’t have to break the bank to fly fish.
A great review guys. Keep up the high quality vblogs, much appreciated! 👍🏼🎣
Thank you so much!
Stumbled on your video looking into fly combos. Good job gentlemen.
Great comparison. Most decent rods are more than most fishers can totally use.
Exactly!
Gorgeous fish guys!😵👌 Great vid as always boys and appreciate the info on these. Plz keep em comin AND if you're unable to get anymore vidz during this Christmas season (which i TOTALLY understand)...Merry Christmas boooooooyz!! Peace 🌲✌😎🌲
This is weird....I just got a message saying....whatsapp me...anyone know what this is???