Multi-Wieght Rods - What do you do?

[Chromaflage]

I own and have seen many rods that are rated 4-5, 5-6, 6-7, etc. I have typically gone with the lower weight line for rods with these types of ratings? What do you guys do and why?

Thanks,

CrF

[Ryan Pultz]

I always go with the higher rating better load on the rod for the most part. rp

[lilnorthfork]

Sell it and buy a single-weight rod. :grin: The cast doesn't lie... line it up with both and then you'll know.
lnf

[Two Fister]

I also go with the higher weight rating. I often bump my rods up a line class anyway. I'd try it out with different lines first and then settle on whatever feels best.
TF

[Chromaflage]

So how do you "try out" different lines at $50 to $70 a pop?

CrF

[lilnorthfork]

So how do you "try out" different lines at $50 to $70 a pop?

CrF

Well, I have reels set up with 3,5,8 and 10 wt. lines you are welcome to try. Anybody in your neighborhood that flyfishes?

lnf

[Chas]

Take your rods to a flyfishing shop, they will have reels already set up for the various line weights and are usually very accommodating in letting you cast with their reels to match your rod. On another note opting for the higher end line weight helps in loading your rod, however, the taper of the line is what allows you to shoot the line. I have found using ie: 7wt line with a 7wt rod with todays line taper improvements easier and provides improved fly, mending, and line control. As with all advice if you are going to use weighted and large flys dependent on the stiffness of the rod increasing line weight may be advisable.

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My Birthday began with the water
Dylan Thomas

[LurkerDave]

As RP said first, the higher line will load the rod easier. Its not even uncommon to "line up" on single line weight rated rods. I throw a 9wt line on my saltwater 8wt to help punch through the wind easier.