I have been asked to build a fly rod. I need some help in deciding what is needed. I was told he is going Salmon Fishing on the Salmon River in Pulaski NY. Can anyone give me some idea as to the weight rod and guides I should build for this kind of fishing? Thanks Scott Parsons

A moderate action 8 wt would work nicely, most guys throw a 9' rod but I've heard a few say they would like to have a touch longer rod. Dad fishes it every year and he is entertaining the idea of having me build him a rainshadow 8wt switch rod for fishing up there.

I have built a couple out fo the rainshadow 8wt for people. Nice rod. No complaints. They use them for salmon in the fall and steelhead in the spring. I have used the 2 and 4 piece blanks.

An 8wt or 9wt in a minimum of 9ft length. Fished up there for many many years and have recently stopped fishing for the salmon and focused on the steelies and browns and prefer 10ft or longer.

You may want to ask him "What type of fly fishing?", indicator/nymphing, swinging streamers, chuck-n-duck are all common forms of fishing up there. This may help steer you toward the proper length and weight.

For indy fishing, the longer the rod, the less line in the water, allowing for a better, more natural drift.

The only pain with a long rod is walking thought the woods with it. Ya got to take them apart to make it easier.

Bill - willierods.com