scierra

[bronjuan]

Hi guys,

I'm new to the spey scene and I'm not really sure what set up to get into. I've heard 12/13 feet is the number to go for...

Does the weighting system compare to single handers?
What style of casting is recommended? Are rods intended for a certain style or can you get away doing any style on any particular rod?

I came across a scierra MPA 7/8 12ft.

Any suggestions?

[speyghillie]

Hi Bronjuan,
The size of the rod and lines weight length really depend on the size of the river and fish you are targeting, 12/13ft is a good size rod for most fishing situations, the line rating might be the same as a single handed rod, but the profile is different, so an out and out Spey line is really what you need, there are lots of different ones out there.
Don't get caught up on the style thing, if possible get a lesson or go to a Speyclave or fish with some one who has been speycasting for a long time that has time to help you out.
Once you get the basic mechanic's sorted out the rest is easy.
Make it easy on yourself and start with a short floating line.
A lesson will set everything up, shorten the learning curve and make it more enjoyable.
If you can give detail of where you live and rivers your going to fish, would help.
Gordon.

[btree]

I concur - get a casting lesson and try out some rods that are set up properly with balanced gear. Many fly shops have staff that offer casting lessons and can set you up with a perfectly matched setup for the type of fishing you want to engage in. It can be quite specialized and lead to gear hoards, so be careful with your choices, take your time.

It's a lot like golf. Nothing like a putter or a driver that's just sweet, but be careful because that can happen every few months and lead to a lot of rods, lines and reels...

For lines, I'd start with either a floating skandinavian or skagit line, but be sure that when you have the time, patience and extra $, get a more traditional spey line and master the strokes. I've yet to do this and shortcutted straight to the skagit - instant gratification, but can lead to bad habits at the expense of instant fishable casts.