My Fly Rod Setup for Smallmouth Bass
I often get asked about my fly rod setup and recommendations for rods and reels. With so many quality options on the market, it’s easy to see why people get overwhelmed.
If you’re just starting, a reasonably priced 5wt rod-and-reel combo with weight-forward floating fly line will work great for chasing trout, bass, or bluegill. That setup can get you fishing right away—but what if you want to step up your game, like throwing bigger sized streamers or maybe your targeting larger fish?
To help, I’m sharing my go-to fly rod and reel setup along with my leader build for smallmouth bass. It’s versatile, powerful, and makes casting bigger flies much easier. Here’s the breakdown:
Rod: Moonshine Drifter II Blackout Limited Edition 6WT, 9’ (Moderate/Fast Action)
This rod stands out for its performance, features, and value. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, the Blackout Drifter II delivers exceptional versatility. I own four other Drifter rods, and they’ve all been fantastic.
Reel: Cortland Crown Series Fly Reel 5/7
Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, this reel is lightweight yet durable. The mid-arbor spool and adjustable center disc drag offers smooth performance. It’s anodized to resist corrosion and comes with a neoprene reel bag for extra protection. The Crown Series is easy to switch between left- and right-hand retrieve, making it a solid choice for any angler.
Fly Line: Cortland Specialty Series Bass Float Line WF6F
This line is designed for summer bass fishing, with a short, powerful head that easily turns over bass poppers and streamers. It’s built one line size heavy, which pairs perfectly with fast-action rods.
Also in my Bag: Extra Reel Spool
Fly Line: Cortland Specialty Series Bass Intermediate WF6I/F
This line has a 26-foot intermediate tip to fish subsurface effectively, targeting structure and current. The X-Strong Core technology ensures strength and stopping power, making it ideal for pulling bass out of cover. I have this same line on my 7WT rod also!
Bass Leader Setup for Creek Fishing
1. Butt Section:
• Cortland Monofilament Nylon Leader Material (20lb)
• Tie a perfection loop on one end for a loop-to-loop connection with your fly line.
• Cut a 4-foot section and tie a Micro Swivel to the other end using a clinch knot.
2. Tippet Section:
• Tie a 2-foot section of 14lb or 16lb Cortland Monofilament Nylon Leader Material to the swivel.
• The swivel prevents line twist and allows for quick tippet changes, keeping your casts smooth and tangle-free.
Final Thoughts
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” setup. Fly fishing is about experimenting and finding what works best for you. This is the setup I rely on, but your preferences might differ—and that’s okay! Don’t let anyone tell you you’re doing it wrong. Use this as a guide to help make an informed decision and build confidence with your gear.
Thanks for your interest, keep your boots wet! -Paul
