Expert: Gary Tchida - 7/3/2009

Question
Hi Gary,
I have a cortland embassy 60 reel and am wondering if it is acceptable to use with a 4wt rod and line.  The website shows it is for 6wt but it seems light and small to me.  Any help is greatly appreciated.

Happy 4th of July!

Terrell

Answer
Thanks for your question, it really comes down to the balance of the outfit. For me, I place my index finger just ahead of where the grip ends and see if the rod remains level while balancing on my fingertip. Here is an article that deals with balance in depth http://www.flyfishohio.com/a_question_of_balance.htm

Get your reel lined up and take it with you to your local fly shop and ask to try it on different rods.

I hope this helps,

Gary