Hello all. I was curious about how the length of a fly rod affects performance. I was considering building either a 9, 9"6 or 10 foot seven weight for steelhead fishing but wanted to know if rod length would make a huge difference in casting or line control since these lengths are quite close. Any opinions would be appreciated.
thanks,
Tom.

Hi Tom,

I think you started something like a general discussion about flyrods, on top I have unfortunately no idea about the US steelhead fishing but have to tell you that depending on circumstances like casting position (wading, deep wading, from boat, river bank) as well as body size and constitution might have an influence on this.

For example I fish most time in the Baltic Sea wading or deep wading at the shore for seatrouts ("our" steelheads, originally brown trouts from rivers who leave to the ocean to get bigger and fatter more fast than in the river) so I decide for a rod length based on that for example with a 9'6 it is easier th eprepare for a really long cast because if the line height above waterlevel than with a 9'0 rod. As longer and for sure also as heavier a rod is as more exhausting the fishing will be what could be an issue if you fish long stretches in one shot several days in sequence. I have no clue if these lines will help you but it shows you a little the way how I would decide in general.

RGDS,
Ole

It can make a big difference, heavy sinktips overhead cast all day can wear out a shoulder on the longer rods more quickly. Blank design makes a bigger difference than length I think, pick one that fishes well vs one that impresses your buddies while yard casting.

Longer can cast farther, provided you have the strength to use it. A shorter rod will be easier to cast and less tiring over a long day. A longer rod will require a bit more effort and will make the fish you hook feel larger (gives the fish more leverage against you).

I'd just try to find what you feel is the best overall compromise for what you're doing. I know the 10' 7-weight is quite popular for steelhead fishing. If you can reach what you need to reach with the 9 footer, however, I'd seriously consider it. Do you need the extra length for line control/mending? Do you need to cast farther than you feel you can with the 9 footer?

.........

As a certified casting instructor, I would ask you this: Are the rivers that you anticipate to fish are large? I know large is relative, but this would be an important factor on top of the ones mentioned above.

Personnaly, after 25+ years, I am a 10' rod fan. The only 9'ers I own were in the saltwater application. (I.e. bonefish etc.) Longer rods give you more line control, cast further for the most part, and most of the time aid in fish control. They weigh a little more, but it's worth the extra lenght. But, don't let fishing in small creeks deter you from going to a 10'er. 10'er's work just fine in small

Depending on the size opf the fish you're after I'd think about an 8wt or even a 9wt. If you're talking about 10lb-plus fish you might want something a bit heavier than the 7wt. But I agree with the comments above - 10' would be about right.

Uncle Russ

Thanks for all the input. I am used to longer steelhead rods for float fishing and bottom bouncing so a ten foot rod actually seems on the short side. Anyway, thanks again.
Tom.