Fly rods: the difference between bamboo, graphite and fiberglass

Bamboo fly fishing rods remain extremely popular, despite the fact that a large number of fiberglass and graphite rods have appeared over the past half century. For many, however, casting a bamboo fly fishing rod is the only way to go: after all, if you are fly fishing to commune with nature, why not use the most natural rod? A bamboo fly fishing rod combines history, art and sport.

Of course, bamboo poles tend to be a bit pricey from the riverside, so to speak. So if you’re just starting out in the sport, it may not be worth the extra money. In fact, if you’re just starting out, a fiberglass fly fishing rod (the cheapest of the three) might be just fine for you.

Graphite fly fishing rods are perhaps the most common these days. Why? If you only try one, even one that is mid-priced, you are sure to find that they offer you the power and performance you want. They can also be very versatile.

So what is the difference between these three types of fly rods (bamboo, fiberglass, and graphite), anyway?

Bamboo Fly Fishing Rods

These are the finest and most traditional reeds. It can take more than 100 hours of work to make a bamboo pole, from the selection of the cane to the wrapping and finishing of the cane. They are also usually the most expensive. Just as there are those who paid a penny to mold, bend and tune violins, the same goes for fly fishing rods. Building bamboo fly rods is a true art. Bamboo rods are more flexible than graphite and have a slower action, which is ideal for relaxed and refined fishing.

Fiberglass Fly Fishing Rods

These are quite heavy in relation to their size. It can even be 2 or 3 times heavier than a similarly sized graphite rod. You may not notice the extra weight at first, but after a day of casting and recasting, it’s hard to ignore. However, the great thing about these fly fishing rods is that they are very durable and strong. You can use and abuse a fiberglass rod, and will take all abuse in stride.

Graphite Fly Fishing Rods

These are the stiffest rods of the three. They are very strong for their weight. You can make graphite fly rods with slow or fast action. You will find that you have more power, versatility and performance when you use a graphite fly fishing rod, rather than a bamboo one. You can find graphite fly fishing rods that are at the higher end of the price range, but you can also find some good ones for very reasonable quantities. If you know you’re planning on sticking with the sport, it’s a good idea to start with a mid-priced graphite rod first (yes, a fiberglass rod may be fine, but a graphite rod is better!)