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2. Fly Fishing Beginners
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3. Fairly New to fly fishing

So far all i know is that i need a 5wt rod thats is 8'6" to 9'. It has to be $150 or under(or at least close). Ive been looking at the redington crosswater and PATH. Also ive looked at the st.croix Rio santo rod. Are these good rods? Is Ross a respectable brand? Any opinions on good brands?(to get myself acquainted to the companies)

I fished a St. Croix Rio Santo for seven years until I took the plunge and upgraded this year. It is a great rod for a beginner to learn on and is incredibly durable. I would always recommend that rod to someone starting out in fly fishing. I also like that it is made in Park Falls, WI, but I have a midwestern bias.

I have never fished either of the Redington rods, but know people who have really liked their middle to lower end rods.

I own one Ross reel and love it. Solid construction, solid drag.

Lobotyler,

first, welcome to the Forum- lots of good informed opinions here, and some sporadic strange stuff too- a good mix, all in all!

I'll echo Kschaefer3's comments on St Croix rods, I've got a half-dozen of their 'entry-level' and mid-price rods in 4 through 8 wt and various lengths. I have yet to be disappointed in their performance- they do what they're designed and intended to do.

HAVE FUN, that's what its all about.

Roguerat

I Peter 5:7 'Cast your cares upon Him..'

Yeah, I pretty much exclusively fish St. Croix Rods, and I would highly recommend them. Unless you're thinking you'll fish small, brushy streams a disproportionate amount of the time, a 9' 5 weight is a good "generalist" rod.