... The action of the rod is the next thing to consider. This is the bending resistance and comes in fast, medium, and slow designations. Fast action fly fishing rods are stiff and will set a hook with little effort. They will also lose a fish if you are too aggressive. Beginning anglers usually do better with medium actions. Check the bend of the rod to be sure it’s smooth and even with no soft spots. Fly fishing rods come in lengths of 4 to 18 feet. Longer rods will cast farther with less effort. For tight spaces, use shorter rods because they won’t get hung-up when you cast. An 8 to 9 foot fly rod will satisfy the needs of most situations. Go with an 8 foot rod if you primarily fish small to mid-sized rivers. A 9 foot rod is a good choice for float fishing, large rivers, and casting in windy conditions. You can also get an 8 1/2 foot rod, which is very popular. Try different grip shapes and sizes for comfort and control. Remember that you will be casting the rod a lot and comfort is critical. Control is also related to rod action and determines how you set the hook. Check your fly shop for complete packages that include a rod, reel, and line. These are good choices for beginners. More experienced anglers will likely prefer to purchase everything separately. ... Choosing the correct fly fishing rod means the difference between an enjoyable trip and a lousy one. Pick the wrong type and you will work yourself to exhaustion. Graphite rods are a good choice. They are light, durable, and provide a smooth cast. While a little pricey, they are well worth the small additional cost ...