One of the biggest deterrents to starting a new hobby, is budget. While the old saying of “You get what you pay for” is still true, there are some amazing deals to still be had. Lets look at the best deals on fly rods under $200. It’s no secret, the majority of people don’t have thousands of dollars to dump into a new hobby. There’s also the thought of “what if I don’t like fly fishing?” Let me first put you at ease by saying, there is a really good chance you’re going to fall in love with the sport. I do understand the hesitation though with spending big bucks on something you’re not sure of. Lets get right into it and look at the best fly rod under $200.
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Shakespeare is a signature name in the fishing industry.
They have been around for well over 100 years. I would gamble that there is a very good chance that at some point in all of our fishing careers, we have had or at least used a Shakespeare rod. This Cedar Canyon Premier is a 9ft 5/6 wt. It comes pre spooled with backing line and leader, and is ready to go. The best part? It is available at BobWards.com for well under $100 right now. This is an awesome deal I think you’ll be very happy with, as a beginner rod for a very affordable price. While you’re there check out the rest of their site and pick up some new Sitka gear, or Vortex Optics. They carry a ton of quality gear from the brands we all know and love.
Redington has some amazing and affordable options.
One of my favorites in the under $200 range is the 9ft 4wt Redington Classic Trout. This is just the rod but for the money it is a great one. There are dozens of budget friendly reels to throw on it (stay tuned for that article), I can easily justify spending a couple hundred on a reel for it though, as this rod deserves a little more respect than the cheaper box store options. It also includes the Cordura rod tube, for extra protection while traveling, or on those rare occasions you’ll want to store it away.
On a quick side not. If you are new to fly fishing, or just curious if it’s for you. I suggest checking out my Beginners Guide to Fly Fishing. It will answer a lot of questions you many have, and give you some more points to consider.
The Orvis Encounter
Orvis is another quality brand we all know and love. Most people don’t consider them when looking at a beginners fly rod, and that’s because we associate the brand with the higher end rods and higher end prices. While the high end quality is true, they have some extremely nice rods in the more affordable price ranges. This Encounter is on Amazon right now for well under $200. It comes as a 9ft 5wt, and is pre-spooled with Orvis clearwater fly line, and the matching Orvis rod tube. Check it out, I’m sure you’ll like what you see.
Moonshine Rod Co. Drifter Series
We saved the best for last. I am a huge fan of Moonshine rods. They have a rod for every budget. There are multiple options under $300. They also have many options above, and when you’re looking for something in the next price bracket I suggest checking those options out too. I also wont hold it against you if you jump up and skip the $200 range. You will not be disappointed.
For today though, we’re going to stick with the brand new Drifter II because we’re staying in the $200 range. They released the original Drifter series a few years ago. Due to the immediate love and attention it got, and the quality of the rod, it was well received. Just this year I contacted them about their model line up and they let me know they we’re coming out with the new Drifter II. I was on a list and when they were ready to release the rod I was one of the first to get my hands on it. This rod will blow your mind.
You can check out my full review and more detailed specs of the Drifter II here. You’ll see exactly why this is the best fly rod for $200.
Why you should choose Moonshine
Moonshine makes some absolutely incredible rods, and are a small operation with a very personal “family feel.” So you get top quality from professional fisherman, and also get to support some really cool people. This is my favorite company, and they make the best fly rod for $200. They have a great selection of different sizes and weights of rods to fit every need. Their story is really awesome and worth looking into. One of the most completely awesome things I’ve ever seen is they include an extra rod tip with all of their rods. I can’t begin to count how many rod tips I’ve broken over the years. They know that. They’ve seen it. They’ve done it too. So to include an extra tip, well that’s just the kind of company they are.
Well, I hope I’ve given you some helpful information. You won’t be disappointed with any of these rods. Spend only as much as you can afford, there is no need to go over your budget or break the bank. You can save those hard card swipes for the day you’re addicted to the sport and just can’t get enough…..trust me, that day is coming.
