Recommended fly rods for panfish fly fishing

Best fly rods for fly fishing panfish.

Fly fishing for panfish is not only a great way for novice anglers to dial in their technique, but it’s also a stress-free and fun break for experienced anglers who may have gotten too immersed in the minutiae of fly fishing.

Whether you’re new to the sport or an old hand, the rods we’ve highlighted here are all well-suited to panfishing. A 3- or 4-weight rod (or even lighter) not only makes every catch a little more challenging, it also helps with the presentation of small and delicate flies. Really, any good quality 5- or 6-weight rod works great for panfish, as bluegill and other small species. 

Add a reel and a floating line and you have everything you need to hit the local pond for some panfish. Check out our best fly reels for bass for our picks on the best reels for smaller species.

The best fly rods for panfish:

1. Echo Base Fly Rod

   

   Price: $89.99
   Line weights: 3wt - 8wt

   With its versatile medium-fast action, 4-piece design, quality hardware and easy-to-handle sub-$100 price, the Echo Base is a perfect starter rod for the beginning fly fisher or as a backup rod. Handles line weights from 3wt to 8wt.

   Product details >>

2. Echo Carbon XL Fly Rod

   

   Price: $149.99
   Line weights: 2wt - 6wt

   A great looking, great casting rod at a wallet-friendly price, the Carbon XL is a great choice for trout, panfish and bass fishing. It feels light in-hand, works with just about any casting style, and its 4-piece design makes it easy to travel with.

   Product details >>

3. Redington VICE Fly Rod

   

   Price: $199.99
   Line weights: 3wt - 9wt

   A moderately priced fly rod with fast action, the VICE works well for everything from panfish and trout to steelhead and other larger species. Multi-modulus carbon fiber construction for better control and accuracy on casts and an anodized aluminum reel seat make this a great rod for freshwater or saltwater fishing.

   Product details >>

4. Sage FOUNDATION Fly Rod

   

   Price: $325.00
   Line weights: 4wt - 8wt

   In the “Best Bang for the Buck” category, this may well be the winner. Made in the USA, the affordably priced FOUNDATION series incorporates Sage’s Graphite IIIe technology for superb performance and comfort. Available in 4wt to 8wt models.

   Product details >>

Shop all fly rods available for sale from The Fly Fishers fly shop.