Budget 3 weight? [Archive] - Bill Kiene's Fly Fishing Forum

Jay

04-16-2009, 03:12 PM

I'm looking for a packable 3 weight for small streams and alpine lakes. Anybody have any recommendations on an inexpensive 3 weight?

Apart from any specific recommendations, what are some characteristics to look for in one? Length, taper, etc.

Thanks
Jay

Scott V

04-16-2009, 03:37 PM

I have a TFO Pro 8'-6" 4 piece with a Orvis battenkill to match it. I really like this outfit alot. I use it on small creeks and ponds. So far the biggest fish I caught on it is a 2.5 lb smallmouth on top with a small deer hair popper and it handled it with no problem. So far I have no complaints with it.

easymends

04-16-2009, 04:45 PM

Dont own a 3 weight but I have a 4. Went the TFO route as well. Great stick for the money and their warranty kicks A$$.

jbird

04-16-2009, 05:17 PM

I have a TFO Pro 8'-6" 4 piece with a Orvis battenkill to match it. I really like this outfit alot. I use it on small creeks and ponds. So far the biggest fish I caught on it is a 2.5 lb smallmouth on top with a small deer hair popper and it handled it with no problem. So far I have no complaints with it.

Scott
I have that exact same combo. One of my favorite rods of my arsenal.

Jay

04-16-2009, 05:42 PM

Well thats reassuring. Temple Fork was leading the pack for me when I started this thread. Anybody have a line on a good deal?

troutbm

04-16-2009, 07:40 PM

A 3 weight rod for fishing at elevation for me would be around 7'6" and a very soft medium action.

Darrin.Deel

04-16-2009, 07:57 PM

TFO 7'6" 4 pc 3# for sure. a ross flystart 1 will do the trick. I would put a #4 line on it if you plan to throw anything bigger than a hopper.

Jay

04-16-2009, 08:02 PM

Thanks guys. Looks like its time to turnover some of my bass gear and get a TFO.

jburge

04-17-2009, 06:17 AM

Jay, FWIW I just read this article at Midcurrent on 3wts:

http://www.midcurrent.com/articles/gear/morselli_3weights.aspx

Certainly not budget rods, but it might give you more to think about. Good luck! I'm in the market for a high altitude back country setup as well.

John

590Mike

04-17-2009, 08:37 AM

I'm with everyone else on the TFO but don't pass the reddington CPX series also for a little more money the Winston vapor 7'6" 3wt is a nice rod also.

bonish

04-17-2009, 12:38 PM

Well thats reassuring. Temple Fork was leading the pack for me when I started this thread. Anybody have a line on a good deal?

I've got a spare, never used, TFO TiCr 9 foot, 4-piece, 4 wt. if you're interested