How to Determine the Line Weight for Bamboo Rods
- 1). Determine what type of fish you'll be trying to catch. The species of fish that you're going after will dictate the fly line weight that you'll need. Heavier fish that put up a fight will require heavier line, and smaller fish will only require minimum fly line weights.
- 2). Choose the line weight corresponding to the type of fish you'll be attempting to catch. Line weights are rated in grains, from 1 to 14. Line weights 1 to 3 are used for the smaller fish such as small trout, croaker and panfish, as well as for short casts and small flies. Line weight 4 is used for medium-sized trout, short to mid-range casts and with medium flies. Line weight 5 to 6 are used as the most versatile for casts and flies, and are used for all but the smallest and largest trouts and bass. Line weight 7 to 8 are used for very large trout, bass and some saltwater angling. Line weights 9 to 14 are reserved for the largest fish, mainly saltwater angling, and used for long casts and large flies.
- 3). Select the bamboo rod weight corresponding to the line weight you chose. For example, if you chose a line weight of 6, for versatile trout or bass fishing pursuits, choose a bamboo rod weight of 6.
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