Choosing a fly fishing rod can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the sport. Even seasoned anglers have many options to weigh because they are adventurous for new fishing rods. Size, weight, flexibility, the role and composition of the rod are just a few things you need to consider.

"Fly rods have different weights," explained Daniel Uter of Rivers Edge West in Bozeman. "From double to twelve. In Montana, about 90% of the fishing rods we sell are 5 or 6 weights and about 9 feet long."

Uter went on to explain that these weight rods will cover most of our fly fishing in Treasure State.

The weight of the rod usually refers to the weight of the wire you will use. A bigger fish means you need a harder rod to handle the weight of the line and the size of the fish you are aiming for. And in some cases, you may need a lighter fishing rod to adapt to smaller waters, or if you want to land on a boat, you may need a heavier fishing rod.

"Some people use smaller rods, such as 7 feet 3 inches weights, which are much shorter," Uter explained.

In the past few years, this technology has undergone great changes. Ten years ago, many shots were heavier than what you see now, and usually harder.

"Fishing rods and reels have indeed witnessed a huge leap in technology in the past 2 to 3 years, especially fishing rods," Uter said. "They have basically been able to make a rod with less resin or glue. By doing this, they can put more graphite into the rod, which makes the rod feel better and lighter."

This feeling usually allows the angler to respond better when throwing or setting the hook, and it usually results in a longer throwing time or more accurately placing the flies tied to the line on the line.

Most rods are made of graphite. The production time of these graphite rods is usually shorter, and the manufacturer's purchase or manufacturing costs are also lower. There are also many bamboo poles on the market. It is a classic tool that many anglers are looking for.​​​

"It's more like a work of art. You will pay more for it. You will sacrifice a little durability, and they will be heavier," Ute said of the bamboo poles.

"But for some people who still—actually, fish with bamboo poles, this is just part of fly fishing," he added.

Children also have many great choices. They are usually a little lower in price, come in the form of a combination of fishing rod and reel, and are durable.

"They are usually in the range of seven and a half feet and eight feet, and their colors are interesting," Ute said. "Usually, children’s clothes are a bit more durable. Compared to your par, they may be more abused."

And they must generally be more durable. Young children will often hang the tip of the fishing rod on a branch or bump the fishing rod into a tree, which can damage the traditional fishing rod.

The most important aspect of choosing the right fishing rod is to check the feel of the fishing rod and the throwing conditions.

"There are many different options, and not every fishing rod is suitable for everyone," Uter said. "Everyone has a unique casting style, and there may be a rod that suits it."

Most flying shops will sort out some fishing rod choices for you, take you outside to check its throwing situation, and help you choose the right fishing rod. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a fishing rod. Many shops can provide you with lower budget rods or rod and reel combinations at reasonable prices. You can upgrade your settings at any time. But Uter explained that learning with a better fishing rod will help you feel and make your throwing better when you need it most.

We tried to understand what the shopkeeper might think is their favorite fishing rod on the market. Uter's reaction may be the same as any experienced angler: "I might say this is the last big fish I caught," he joked.

The best suggestion is that if you choose a fishing rod as a beginner, you should choose a multi-function fishing rod and try multiple throws to get a suitable fishing rod. If you have been fishing for a while, make sure you are looking at a specific type of water, a specific feeling, and try again before buying.