The wrong way happens to be the most common method, and it involves giving in to hype and marketing. For example, I just finished reading a couple rod reviews on a well-established website, and I've come away with little real information. Plenty of elaborate language and a "highly recommended" rating on both rods, but very few facts.
A good many rods get sold by such reviews, which is a pity. It's a pity not because I doubt the quality of those rods, but because the consumer deserves better.
Until these "experts" start treating consumers with more respect, I suggest a better way of buying a rod ... the right way:
- Begin with a budget. Buying a fly rod is not that different than buying a car. I.e., if you can only spend $15,000, there's not much point looking at the $100,000 models. So put the process in its proper perspective by figuring out how much you can afford without sacrificing something that's truly important. Pay the rent, feed the family and make sure the kids have shoes first.
- Once you've established a budget, do a bit of research to determine which rods are available within your price range. If you have a $1,000 budget, good for you, you'll have a lot of choices. But even if you can only spend $100, you still have worthwhile options, as long as you're willing to look for them.
- Check the warranties. There is a lot of variation in fly rod warranties, and I won't presume to tell you here which ones are best. But fly rods can be fragile, and you should be aware of your options in case disaster strikes.
- Cast as many of the rods on your list as you can. Now, it might not be possible to cast every rod; no dealer has everything. But good dealers understand the importance of casting a rod before you buy, so don't be shy in asking.
- When you find the right combination of price and castability, buy that rod. Buy it no matter what others might say. It's your money, after all, and it's going to be your rod. Let the "experts" buy their own.
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