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.
| Reel | Line weights | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Echo Base fly rod | 3wt–8wt | $89.99 |
| Echo Carbon XL fly rod | 2wt–6wt | $149.99 |
| Redington VICE fly rod | 3wt–9wt | $199.99 |
| Sage FOUNDATION fly rod | 4wt–8wt | $325.00 |
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 >>
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 >>
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 >>
