Newbie with a new setup!

[StillHunter1]

Hey everyone,

I've been an avid spinning and baitcasting fisherman my entire life and now feel it's time (now that I can afford it) to try my hand at fly fishing. I did some research and decided on a 9 ft 6wt setup. However, all of my research went out the window today when I impulsively purchased a Sage Approach (9' 6wt) with a CLA 3 Ross Reel.

Haven't been able to find any real reviews for the Approach but am hoping it wasn't a bad purchase. Although I've never casted a fly rod, it felt good in my hand and seemed to have a nice action when compared to other entry level rods (Echo, St. Croix and TFO BVK).

Anyone have experience with the Approach? Anything good or bad to say? How does this setup look for a beginner?

[Scott N]

I'm sure it will be a good setup for a new flyfisher. The only problem is, since you've never casted a flyrod before, is not having anything to compare it to. Sage is a very good line of rods though, so I'm sure the money will be well spent.

[MtnGiant]

I see your an advocate of ye ole sayin..."shoot first and ask questions later" philosophy.

Well its done now....so your stuck w/ it.

All this being said....You done good....you should be happy w/ this setup for quite some time.

[densa44]

The line is the most important component IMO. If you haven't bought a fly line yet, ask the boys for advice. The correct one for what you are trying to do makes a huge difference.

[Alberta83]

Great thread. I am also getting into fly fishing this year and I just learnt a whole bunch!

[MtnGiant]

Originally Posted by densa44

The line is the most important component IMO. If you haven't bought a fly line yet, ask the boys for advice. The correct one for what you are trying to do makes a huge difference.

Great finishing setup advice.
But I assume he bought the combo unit...so it came w/ line??

[StillHunter1]

Nope. Didn't buy the combo unit. I bought a CLA 3 Ross Reel to go with it. Since I plan on practicing my casting on the lawn lots before I get out on the rivers and lakes I bought cheaper floating line (Scientific Anglers Pro Series). The guy at the store recommended that because I will probably cause some damage and there's no point ruining good expensive line. I plan on getting some kind of Rio line... Every post I've read and everyone I've spoken to regarding line raves about it.

[StillHunter1]

Also picked up the Orvis guide to beginning fly fishing. Reading it right now.

[Okotokian]

Originally Posted by StillHunter1

Nope. Didn't buy the combo unit. I bought a CLA 3 Ross Reel to go with it. Since I plan on practicing my casting on the lawn lots before I get out on the rivers and lakes I bought cheaper floating line (Scientific Anglers Pro Series). The guy at the store recommended that because I will probably cause some damage and there's no point ruining good expensive line. I plan on getting some kind of Rio line... Every post I've read and everyone I've spoken to regarding line raves about it.

You got a great rod and reel (especially the reel) for a beginner. 6wt is a perfect starter for around here. You will be able to use those for years. I wouldn't stress about the line too much. Scientific Anglers isn't that bad. Heck, it's what they recommended for a recent saltwater flats trip I did. If you can't cast that competently you aren't going to be able to cast anything more expensive any better.

I would suggest a lesson. Other than that, go for it. You can wait on waders and boots if you like. Around here June to September I usually leave the waders at home and fish in shorts and old runners or water shoes. Much more comfortable. If you want to start right now, then yeah, waders are a must.