Newbie setup for flats Bonefish/Reds

[putput]

Newbie will be looking for a complete setup for fishing Florida flats for Bonefish and probably Reds. I'm thinking 10ft 9W flyrod outfit but how much do I have to spend to not have junk?
I've seen complete packages with backing and line but what is good?
20# backing? 15# leader?
Man I need help! :dunno:

[Shadowcast]

I'd go with an 8 wt.......9 wt if you think you will be fishing bigger flies. Start at a fly shop and cast as many rods as possible. 20# backing..gelspun if you can.

[Sneaky16]

Get a 9' 9wt rod. Cast a couple of different brands and actions. What works for one doesn't mean it will for you. The 9wt will allow greater range of
fly size, weather conditions and fish size. Stick with a large arbor reel, the norm for todays anglers and WWF line for Bones and Reds.
If I was to purchase a new outfit spend the money on the Rod, Line then Reel in that order and you will be better off.

[BP&T]

Might be easier to answer your question if you would state your budget.

[Sagittarius]

TFO makes some nice quality rods that aren't priced too high.
TFO reels aren't bad either for the bucks.
I prefer Wellstone reels which are a bit higher priced than TFO but still a bargain when compared to Tibor and Abel.
JMO :)


Sag.

[razorz]

Go to a fly shop, pick out a few 8 and 9 wt rods. Do NOT look at the price tags. Test cast em all and see which one feels the best. Put them in order of feel. You might be amazed that the mid-range priced rods actually feel like they cast better to most people.

Don't get caught up in the "I have to spend $1500 per fly setup to be a good fisherman" ordeal.

[Capt. Ted Lund]

My personal preference would be an 8-wt. 4 piece like those made by Scott (S3S), Loomis (Cross Current) Sage (Xi2) Orivs (Zero G) or St. Croix or TFO. All great casting rods. For redfish, the reel isn't that important, as more than about 10 yards and most reds will suffer a major coronary. Bonefish, though, do require a little better equipment. I'd recommend a Tibor Everglades or BC Wide, Abel 3N or any of the large arbor jobs by Orvis. All will do the job well. If you have to scrimp on one, invest in the rod. Also, when looking at lines, bear in mind that "redfish" or "clouser" tapers are going to turn over heavy, bulkier flies better, but might not make delicate presentations to bonefish — so a couple of lines might be in order.