Fly fishing is a rewarding but often gear-intensive sport. From rods and reels to flies and waders, having the right equipment can make all the difference in your experience on the water. However, quality fly fishing gear can be expensive, and it’s always smart to know where to find the best deals to outfit yourself without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top places to find great deals on fly fishing equipment, whether you’re a beginner looking for your first setup or an experienced angler searching for upgrades.
1. Online Retailers
One of the easiest and most convenient ways to find great deals on fly fishing gear is by shopping online. Many online retailers offer competitive prices, regular sales, and even discounts on gear bundles. Some of the best places to start your search include:
Backcountry (backcountry.com): Backcountry is a well-known retailer that carries a wide selection of fly fishing gear, including rods, reels, waders, and accessories. They often run seasonal sales and clearance events where you can score significant discounts on top brands like Orvis, Sage, and Simms.
Amazon (amazon.com): Amazon may not specialize in fly fishing, but it offers a massive selection of gear from both major brands and budget-friendly options. Amazon often has flash sales, daily deals, and discounts for Prime members. Be sure to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.
Trident Fly Fishing (tridentflyfishing.com): Trident Fly Fishing is a dedicated fly fishing retailer that offers a wide range of gear and competitive pricing. They frequently have sales and offer price matching on select items. Their free shipping on orders over a certain amount is an added bonus.
The Caddis Fly Shop (caddisflyshop.com): This fly fishing retailer has a great selection of gear and regularly offers discounts on popular brands. They have a clearance section with discounted items, and their customer service is highly regarded.
2. Discount and Clearance Sections
Most fly fishing retailers, both online and in-store, have clearance sections where they offer discounts on last season’s gear or discontinued items. These sections are gold mines for anyone looking for top-tier equipment at reduced prices. Here are some retailers that frequently offer great deals in their clearance sections:
Orvis (orvis.com): Orvis is a top name in fly fishing gear, and their clearance section is filled with discounted items, including rods, reels, and fly boxes. Their sales events, especially around holidays, offer excellent opportunities to save on high-end gear.
Bass Pro Shops (basspro.com): Bass Pro Shops has a dedicated clearance section where you can find significant discounts on fly fishing gear, from entry-level rods and reels to waders and boots. They also offer seasonal sales and often have promotions on fishing combos.
FishUSA (fishusa.com): FishUSA frequently runs sales on fly fishing equipment, especially during end-of-season clearances. Check their clearance and sale sections for deeply discounted items.
3. Local Fly Shops
While online shopping is convenient, don’t overlook your local fly fishing shop. Many local shops offer competitive pricing, and you can often find deals on floor models, demo rods, and seasonal gear that they’re trying to move out. Plus, shopping locally supports small businesses and gives you the chance to talk with knowledgeable staff who can help guide you to the best deals for your specific needs.
Pro tip: Some fly shops offer discounts if you join their email list or become a member of a local fly fishing club. Be sure to ask about any loyalty programs or discounts when you visit.
4. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist
For those willing to buy secondhand, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are excellent places to find pre-owned fly fishing gear at a fraction of the cost. Many anglers sell their old rods, reels, and other gear when upgrading or clearing out space, and you can often find barely used items for a great price.
When buying used gear:
Inspect it carefully for damage, especially rods and reels.
Ask for clear pictures if purchasing online.
Negotiate for the best price, especially if the gear shows signs of wear.
5. Fly Fishing Forums and Communities
Online fly fishing forums and communities are great places to buy, sell, and trade gear. Many forums have sections dedicated to classifieds, where members sell their gently used gear. Some of the most popular forums include:
The Classic Fly Rod Forum: This forum has an active classifieds section where members sell vintage and modern fly fishing gear, often at fair prices.
Fly Fisherman Magazine Forum: Another great place to look for used gear being sold by fellow anglers. The sense of community often helps ensure fair deals and honest transactions.
Reddit’s r/FlyFishing: The fly fishing community on Reddit is active, and users often post gear for sale. This can be a good place to find both used and new equipment at reduced prices.
6. Seasonal Sales and Holiday Deals
Keep an eye on seasonal sales and major holidays for the best fly fishing deals. Many retailers offer significant discounts during:
Black Friday
Cyber Monday
End-of-season sales (typically in late summer or fall)
These sales are often the best times to purchase high-end rods, reels, and waders that might otherwise be outside your budget.
7. eBay
eBay remains a viable option for finding deals on both new and used fly fishing gear. You can often bid on items or purchase them outright. Be sure to filter your searches by “Buy It Now” if you want to avoid the hassle of bidding, and always check the seller’s ratings to ensure they’re reputable.
Final Tips for Scoring the Best Deals:
Sign up for newsletters: Many fly fishing retailers offer exclusive discounts to email subscribers, so be sure to sign up for newsletters to stay informed about sales.
Price matching: Some retailers, like Trident Fly Fishing, offer price matching, so if you find a better deal elsewhere, check if they’ll match it.
Buy bundles or kits: Sometimes, buying gear in bundles or kits can save you money. Look for rod and reel combos, or kits that include waders, boots, and accessories.
Be patient: If you’re looking for high-end gear at a lower price, patience is key. Waiting for end-of-season clearances or holiday sales can result in big savings on big-ticket items.
Whether you’re new to fly fishing or an experienced angler, finding great deals on gear is possible with the right approach. By exploring online retailers, checking clearance sections, shopping local, and keeping an eye on secondhand markets, you can equip yourself with quality gear without spending a fortune. Tight lines and happy bargain hunting!
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