Andy's Question:

This fall I will be biking across the states. Well, actually a little farther. From Milwaukee up to Canada, then over to Vancouver, then south to the Bay area, and then east to the Atlantic. Anyway, on this trip I would like to take a fly rod. What do you think would be the best and most versatile rod to travel with on a bike? Thank you for your time.

Andy Hargarten

Mark's Answer:

Andy,

You don't say if you are fishing for trout or salmon or bass or rockfish, and if you are taking one rod, it ought to be more rod than less.

I would recommend a 7- or 8-weight especially if you plan to do any bay fishing. But if you plan to fish for bass and trout and salmon, a 6 or 7 weight will do the trick.

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I always recommend taking two rods on any fishing trip just in case and especially so in your case. A 5-weight for the trout and an 8 or 9 weight for the heavier fish.

But if you purchase just one rod, you will want the fly rod in a three-or four-piece setup so it can easily fit on your bike (which will mean the rod tube will breakdown under 30 inches). The rod tubes that come with today's rods are sturdy and will stand up to punishment.

Something to consider: buy an extra tip for the rod if you can afford it. You will be putting a lot of stress on the rod in your travels and a broken rod tip in the wilds of Canada would jeopardize this trip of a lifetime.

And what did you do to deserve such a great trip as this anyhow?