Buying a better cast?

The Casting Connection

June 2026

By Capt. Scott Swartz

Scott Swartz founded the Atlanta Fly Fishing School, which began in 1999. It is the largest such operation in the Southeast and the only Trout Unlimited “Gold Endorsed” school in the United States. His Florida Fly Fishing Schools started in 2008, helping anglers learn to successfully fly fish in saltwater.

I recently read an article that said in fly fishing “equipment isn’t the only thing; it’s everything.” It painted an image of us fly fishers as walking tackle boxes with rods and reels, vests, nets, nippers and gadgets all about. Amusing as it was, it got me thinking how we choose our gear.

I have seen many equipment choices in 27 years of teaching. There has been Grandpa’s hand-me-down with the reel on backward and there have been custom rigs with gold plated guides and exotic wood reel seats. No judgment: no two people are alike in their financial abilities or passion for the sport.

One observation is a lot of folks outspend their skill set. Today it is really easy with some rods selling north of $1,700.00.

 Advertising says we will cast farther and be more accurate with xxx brand. The latest golf club will drive farther and hit straighter, too. Technology improves over time, albeit slowly, and marketing sells those improvements.

Does that “better” rod make for longer, more accurate casts? Photo by Jimmy Jacobs.

Many considering attending our school ask, “How much will it cost to get started fly fishing?” There it is! The question of how much is that walking tackle box of rods and reels, vests, nets, nippers and gadgets going to cost?

Gadgets are gadgets and nippers, forceps, floatant and such are not big dollar items, but rods and reels can stretch the budget. Reels with smooth drags protect light tippets and sealed drags are best in some environments. Some features are worth spending money for better performance.

What about the rod? Rods are one of the more expensive items, and we all want more than one for different types of fishing. Perhaps the right rods might be the ones matched to your ability. Today entry-level rods, from reputable companies, are extremely good, and mid-level rods are outstanding. Why not? They were the best you could buy just a couple of years ago but worked their way down the line as new rods were introduced.

Marketing tells us we will be more accurate and cast farther with the latest offerings, but the truth is you cannot buy your way to great performance. You must practice to be good even with the best of rods.

Students are amazed how much their rod’s performance improves during a casting lesson. They really can cast more accurately and much farther. While gadget shopping be sure to test rods of different levels and price points. You might be surprised to find out it is not the rod limiting your performance.

Send your questions or comments to: info@atlantaflyfishingschool.com