The WORST Fly Fishing Products

Hot stinky doodoo.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Watch my exclusive, ad-free, early-release videos at:
special.tv/hugeflyfisherman
Huge Fly Fisherman merch - www.hugeflyfisherman.com
Instagram - @hugeflyfisherman
------friends------
@Trout Hunting NZ
• Video
Downriver Equipment
www.downriverequip.com
Zland Brand
jerms1977.com/zland-1
Tailer Trash Fly Fishing Podcast
www.tailertrash.com
Orvis Fly Fishing
www.orvis.com/fly-fishing
District Angling
districtangling.com
About Trout
@AboutTrout
www.abouttrout.com
Staschewax
www.staschewax.com
Drake Boatworks
www.drakeboatworks.com
Flood Tide Co
floodtide.com
Able Seedhouse + Brewery
ablebeer.com
Fish Winter Park
fishwinterpark.com/
Marsh Dawn Guide Service
marshdawn.com
Florida Fly Co
www.floridaflyco.com
------------------------------
things I use
bimini for raft - amzn.to/31Vw4K4
tenkara pole - amzn.to/2PH9fEO
Smith sunglasses - amzn.to/2EJSyVm
Costa sunglasses - amzn.to/2FHEpdK
water cannon - amzn.to/2D1Swa1
streamer line - amzn.to/2tNrXAw
trout book - amzn.to/2VzzQVR
underwear - amzn.to/2Xbd5sZ
kids fly rod - amzn.to/2Bw5Nqz
fly tying tool kit - amzn.to/2MMveIP
multi rod tube - amzn.to/2ssbp0g
car rod rack - amzn.to/2DVN7n3
Sage ESN rod - amzn.to/2Sbfi4i
Galvan R5 reel - amzn.to/2DJ6BKD
RIO rio grande fly line - amzn.to/2zonwiU
wade net - amzn.to/2E035fY
boat net - amzn.to/2QXKkAA
camera - amzn.to/2P9Etma
hoodie - amzn.to/2zp7hlk
buff - amzn.to/2P4lZnb
tires - amzn.to/2DM6VIu
boots - amzn.to/2XWO09a
neoprene waders - amzn.to/2r6dzC8
gloves - amzn.to/2DWIbyo
gloves - amzn.to/2DTQuLr
floatant - amzn.to/2DJhAUr
dry shake - amzn.to/2Qho5Ve
bobbers - amzn.to/2THXteZ
waders - amzn.to/2R1GczB
forceps - amzn.to/2rZVbuT
split shot - amzn.to/2Rh4uFl
hand warmers - amzn.to/2KuOmdj
goggles - amzn.to/2CUsHsN
these are amazon affiliate links

[@gnb3472]

For anyone not already on Special, you don't know what your missing. Ben absolutely goes ham way beyond this. Get on it people !

[@slickydicky]

Yea nah. Not gonna pay tk watch him shit on shit that he's already talked about before

[@oak8728]

@@slickydicky exactly. The free content is just not up to snuff for me to think paying would be worth it. Kicks to you all that do 😁

[@oak8728]

Not to mention the brief euro nymph briefing, I don’t think Huge fishes much more than one setup lol oh wait dry dropper and bobber. Two setups 😆

[@slickydicky]

@@oak8728 yea he doesn't exactly practice what he preaches. He's quickly turning jnto a typical KZbinr. But gotta do what you gotta do. I can't say much about the whole euro thing cause I've never tried it. I bought a rod that would be good for it but I have been quickly told today that I bought the wrong brand so whatevr

[@Adroit1911]

@@oak8728 Ben kinda does tell everyone all the time that he sucks at fly fishing. Just saying, take her word or don't. 😂

[@elywilkinson7404]

"For $150 you can buy four game changers". That's pure comedy gold.

[@operationNOBO]

And they arent that great.

[@slickydicky]

I'd rather put it toward a hotel room on a fishing trip instead of buying overpriced flies.

[@ryandelaney9236]

I died...fucking hilarious

[@lee8287]

Lost it on that one

[@Charactermatters650]

I call BS on your dumping on Moonshine - got one and it flat out fishes - Old timer here - catching fresh and salt since way before you were an unformed embryo son. I have custom rods too, and this Moonshine stands up - Tippet rings make sense, and I am far from a fly snob - I fish what works - you need to get a clue.

[@davidclendening9732]

Overly hyped, heavily marketed, overly heavy mediocre Asian rods with bad swing weights and dull feels where most of the money went into marketing to the gullible. Make no mistake, I have no prejudice against Asian rods, and own quite a few, but Moonshine marks up mediocre versions and markets them as somehow special through aggressive marketing. And catch slogans like( I love my moonshine rods There just a IM6 blank rod made along with several other labels They put lipstick on a pig then raise there price. There a gimmick

[@bobdobbs6022]

I have 2 Moonshine rods. First one I got was the 7'6 3wt. It fished super nicely on some small streams near me. Got the 8'6 4wt next. Same rod, 3 years newer, no where close to as nice as the 3wt. So I guess they are hit or miss for me. I won't get another one. Price point was decent, but I can get a TFO or St. Croix for around the same price.

[@FlyFishingChronicles]

I like using tippet rings. In case the tippet is gone I just add new tippet to the ring. Done. That allows me to fish the leader way longer than tying knots over and over again. This process will shorten your leader pretty fast and you have to use a new one. Tippet ring all the time for me!

[@EatShredSleep87]

How about a double overhand knot on the bottom of leader which acts as a stopper and then your knot of choice to attach the tippet? This is what I do when I’m feeling thrifty.

[@georgefleszar7154]

One more product to add to your list: "Beer cozy". If your beer is getting too warm you either brought too many or aren't drinking them fast enough! PS. Disagree on tippet rings. Cut the tippet section off of a new leader, tie in a tippet ring, reattach the tippet. Eliminates the need to add transitions at the butt.

[@trails4all]

TOTALLY agree, must not be drinking them fast enough. But I like them when it's cold so my fingers don't get cold and I hate gloves.

[@mr.robinson1982]

I agree with "Not drinking them fast enough"

[@conoroshaughnessy7786]

Tippet rings are actually pretty legit when it comes to saving your leader and using less tippet overall (environment). Been using the same butt section of leader for coho all season and only replacing my tippet after the ring...

[@phoult37]

Yeah agreed they're great

[@slickydicky]

Yea I think Ben is full of shit sometimes

[@zwiggles6908]

Nah, opinions are like something everyone has and stinks. However, I’m glad he still has the audacity to give his opinion on fishing stuff in this social media age.

[@slickydicky]

@@zwiggles6908 k

[@conoroshaughnessy7786]

@@slickydicky Not so much full of shit as needs content for a Monday

[@4stringmanagmaildcom]

Disagree on tippett rings. On my 6 wt salt water makes it very easy to use different tippett depending on species targeted. I can use the same leader years. Also when I fish for Lings with super high bottom snag potential gives a controlled place for tippett to break off.

[@slickydicky]

Clearly you're wrong

[@rockymountaintrout2689]

Same, I like tippet rings

[@slickydicky]

@@rizzoblam yea man I'm not sure. I subscribed to Ben when I first got into fly fishing 3 or 4 years ago and he was so much better. Pretty much welcomed people to the sport and was open to any and all methods of fly fishing. Now if you don't fish the exact way he does you're garbage to him. I asked him in a comment why he cares so much about what people use all of a sudden then he told me he "didn't give a shit what you (meaning me) or anyone else thinks" I'm done with the prick

[@ehrenwells111]

It’s not my job to defend Moonshine, but I get a kick out of it when people who throw down $200 on a rod and then get all bent out of shape because it doesn’t perform like a Helios 3. I’m not sure it was necessary to single out these guys when there are several manufacturers offering a similar product targeting the “affordable” rod market. Might I suggest a “showdown” episode, where you compare a lineup of $200 rods? I agree the build quality could be improved. I learned early to tape the ferrules on my 7wt Drifter. As for the feel and balance, or whatever, I also noticed some tweaking was needed, so I emailed the manufacturer. They were quick to respond and suggested I go up a line weight, which helped. To give the bigger line some room on the spool I went up a reel size as well. I found these two things combined greatly improved my casting distance and overall enjoyment of this rod. It might be that I have yet to fight the class of fish that warrants it, but I’ve caught several weighty trout on that rod, and I don’t feel the fighting butt is necessary.

[@wvbrookchub]

Tippet rings do come in handy with euro nymphing, unless you like changing your sighter all the time. Stay huge.

[@NotMissingLink]

💯💯💯💯

[@jeffodabear]

Honestly, tippet rings are pretty under rated. I usually take Ben's advice as scripture, but that's one thing I'm going to ignore. Tippet rings are convenient for nymphing and saving expensive fluorocarbon leaders.

[@scottfuhrer7488]

I like Tippet rings--Safety pins them to your vest--Like being in the Army--You want three stripes up-Three stripes down and a Diamond in the middle--Not bad to be a first Sargent. So Tippet rings work. At ease.

[@pickledud7703]

I use fly clips for pike leaders, and just to point out that using tippet rings require you to tie 2 knots ; )

[@mainetroutwhisperer]

I agreed with a lot of these… except the tippet rings. Those are for people who actually fish in cold weather and don’t want to spend even more time tying knots on the river bank and losing fingers 😎 I got a moonshine drifter for free… I actually like it, but again, it’s just a basic 9ft 5wt. How can you really mess that up?

[@rockymountaintrout2689]

That's the one product I disagreed with too. Some people say they cut line but I don't think so. They also hold stronger then a surgeon's knot in my opinion and don't waste as much line.

[@peters6850]

I only use them for salmon with the chuck and duck style leader. In small rivers It probably doesn't make a difference but my brain says the rings create a hinge and that negatively effects casting

[@jamessims5240]

That was my only disagreement

[@austinelliott2798]

They're also a lifesaver for people with failing eyesight.

[@NotMissingLink]

I like tippet rings on for Euro nymphing. 🤷‍♂️

[@mattwilson4371]

Tippet rings save leaders. I can get a whole season out of a leader and I fish 2 times a week

[@JP-dz7zu]

I concur. Only use them on my nymphing rig though. I use a fly clip with my streamer set up.

[@JP-dz7zu]

I concur. Only use them on my nymphing rig though. I use a fly clip with my streamer set up.

[@slickydicky]

I agree. I fish throughout the entire year and only change leaders maybe 3 times

[@willwailes9298]

A loop knot does the same thing.

[@conoroshaughnessy7786]

@@willwailes9298 Wears out way faster

[@GS-rj4dq]

I love the smell of truth in the morning..

[@MarcTelesha]

Add lead core line to your spool NOT quarters on the rod to balance it out. It works like a charm and is super easy.

[@MidwestFrontier]

I absolutely loved this thanks for doing this one

[@marcjalbert4139]

Yeah, agree with all but tippet rings - Iike them for protecting the "permanent section" of my leader in my euro rigs. It's a minor thing, but I it makes sense (to me).

[@BackcountryExposure]

No Ben, you stay Huge! This was gold!

[@SuperBee039]

Holy crap that was epic! Laughed my butt off first thing Monday morning! Sent the link to all my friends…

[@andywooliver561]

Disagree on Moonshine. Is it a $1K Sage, no, but they're not trying to be. I have a 7'6" 3wt Drifter that I prefer over my other cheap brands that most KZbinrs would also scoff at. This rod was my 4th 3wt rod, since I usually have 3 kids in tow fishing with me, and I like it a whole lot more than a TFO, white river, and some unknown glass rod I've had since the 80's. Plus they're the only company that I know of that offers a discount to veterans, LEO, and first responders, so they're my kind of company. I also have no clue who they "sponsor" since I don't follow those things, and I really cannot comment on any Euro rod since I've never fished one, and don't really plan to, just not my style..... So I guess it's all about what you're in too. I am not the dude that likes to flex on gear, I'd rather flex on my bank account and squeeze in another couple trips to the water.

[@cephasmcpher67peteroutdoorspip]

Agreed Andy, well put.

[@billl.3538]

Well said. I suspect there is an interesting backstory to Ben’s perspectives on Moonshine rods. Even though I might take issue with some of his points, he provides a lot of good information in his videos and stimulates thought.

[@chestercrabtree686]

Love it! Tell it like it is, Huge.

[@geocaste8402]

I bought two Moonshine river epiphany rods 3wt and 2wt. One for me and one for my son. I still had money left over for reels, backing, fly line, leader, sighter, TIPPET RINGS, Tippet, materials to tie flies, and money for gas to get to the river. My first time with my 2wt I caught 2 fish both over 20" on flies I tied with the money I saved. I did grow up fishing for trout tight-lining with a cane pole. Listing it as the worst is just misleading. Few have a grand to spend on an ESN to go fishing. Get what you can afford and get out there and fish. Maybe it comes down to the quality of fisherman.

[@davidclendening9732]

You go around and say (I love my moonshine rod ) 😂😂😂

[@calebbowen7549]

I like the epiphany, bought 1, but then got a vesper and it hasn't impressed me

[@gregb8824]

You are getting people to think about their gear more critically and that's GOOD!!!

[@jaydeer6367]

I love my Moonshine Epiphany 3 wt. I was skeptical about euro nymphing and whether to buy a dedicated rod. A very nice guy I met on the water let me try out his rod and gave me a few pointers on setting up a euro nymph rig and fishing it. I caught 3 fish within 40 minutes. I was hooked.. He recommended I look at the Moonshine. I've never paid more than $300 for a fly rod. 2 1/2 years ago, Moonshine put the rod on sale for $179 and free shipping. The cork handle and reel seat quality are equal to my TFO and Echo rods. I put a larger reel on the lock down seat and added 1 1/4 oz of lead tape to get it to balance correctly. I also use a tippet ring between the sighter and the tippet.

[@tacticalflyfisher3817]

Regardless of whether I agree with all of your product choices, it’s hard not to chuckle when watching. Thanks for a good laugh over breakfast.

[@HugeFlyFisherman]

Tippet rings, eh?

[@michaelfeasel6446]

Hi , I just saw my first video from you and you are hilarious!!! I’m just starting to learn how to fly fish and I can’t wait to catch my first trout. I subscribed to your channel and I’m getting all notifications. Keep up the great videos and thanks for being real.

[@shiddyangler]

Have to admit, I occasionally use quick clips when pond fishing. Targeting multiple species on ponds around me requires multiple fly swaps and it gets annoying tying on new tippet every time going out. Stricly for dicking around on ponds though - would never use on a river.

[@OpportunityFishing]

I've always thought those fly tester things were strange. I use a large clear bowl... Lol.

[@merchantmariner6132]

Hey man. Like your videos. As a retired engineer and outdoorsman, I'm back into fly fishing after a long hiatus. I use twist locks and tippet rings, not because I don't know how to tie a knot, but because my fumbly fingers and less than perfect vision make it difficult to tie knots while waist deep in a current. I'm doing everything I can just to stay upright. Aging is a bitch, and she's coming for all of us. Keep the vids coming. Best, Merchant Mariner.

[@BloodSweatnBass]

As usual you did not disappoint

[@jamesgilford157]

Great video. Agree on everything, especially the tippet rings and connectors.

[@AdamBuntain]

I'm with you on doo doo rods but I'll die defending that tippet ring hill.

[@benwohlfeil9947]

I have fished with Sage, Fenwick and Redington fly rods. My favorite is my Moonshine 10 ft 5 wt drifter. Very light, sensitive, well balanced and beautiful fly rod.

[@tracyb1577]

Happy Huge day everyone!

[@cleveland63b56]

man I like your videos just for the simple fact I feel like we could hangout all day and it'd be a blast.

[@jirredvang901]

Agree with everything except tippet ring. I don't use them and they're not necessary since it stops you from cutting your tapered leader whenever you change your tippet

[@huntershepard5764]

I like how you're throwing shit while also prominently displaying your merch logo the entire time and in three different places. Well played.

[@charlieswor3748]

I bought a 8'6" Moonshine rod a few months ago, and I love it!

[@rugrboutdoors2491]

I have a Moonshine 9" 5 Wt. Its a bit stiffer than some other rods but works well. Really good for throwing heavier streamers on a sink tip line. It is also way tougher than some other rods I own and comes with an extra rod tip section. Caught plenty of fish on it over the years and the price is pretty good. Are there better rods out there?, Sure. Worse rods out there, Absolutely. Don't see where all the hate comes from.

[@joeg5414]

@@rugrboutdoors2491 yeah I don't really get it. I've owned a lot of fly rods. My drifter 7'6 3wt is my favorite rod in that price range. Is it a good $500 rod? Probably not. It's a good $200 rod though for sure.

[@jackadamz3]

I bought a 10 foot euro rod. It’s pretty sensitive, an not heavy compared to other rods in that price range. Plus it is a bit tougher than some others.

[@deanc8077]

Totally disagree with the hate on Moonshine Rods. I snagged an 8 wt. for steelhead and salmon on the American River. Love the rod it has a nice action not overly stiff like say the TFO 8 wt. starter rod and reel. That thing is a bitch to load. The Moonshine loads nicely with great timing much like my Loomis 5 wt.. Also purchased one of Moonshines reels. Nice quality good looking real smooth and functional. Jus saying to each his own.

[@dr.charlie8759]

@@rugrboutdoors2491 I agree. I bought my Moonshine because my local fly shop loves them, and I looked around on the internet a bit and all I saw was great reviews. So who besides this guy and his buddies are hating on them?

[@gregb8824]

Looks like you got outvoted on the tippet rings and I gotta say I love tippet rings too! Waaaaay better than a surgeon's knot.

[@rockymountaintrout2689]

Yep, noticed I kept breaking my surgeon's knot off on big trout. Started using tippet rings and the problem stopped

[@Fishbag61]

I agree with some of your ranting, even with Moonshine's overly aggressive marketing...That alone will probably keep me from ever buying another. But I took a chance on a Drifter 5wt about 5 or 6 years ago as a backup to the Winston Nimbus I had been using. I've been fly fishing about 25 years. For some stretches averaging 75-100 days a year, so trust me when say I used to hit it hard and go through gear. Over the years, I've owned the top 9ft 5wt models of Winston, Hardy, Sage, Orvis, Redington, Loomis, and others, as well many medium and budget priced rods. When a major health and economic disaster fell on me, I couldn't fish for a couple of years and sold all of my gear. When I started to recover and got back to fishing, the best rod I could afford was the Nimbus...I used it for a full season, then I bought the Moonshine because it was only 200.00. Whenever I bring a guest with me I offer them the best rod I have, which was the Winston at the time. The funny thing is when I started using the Moonshine regularly, I began to like it more than the Winston. So did one of my regular fishing buddies when he had first pick. He had been using a modest but decent Winston Vaper for about 10 years but started asking to use the Moonshine. Eventually, I sold the Winston and bought a second Drifter. Before all this started I had never heard of Moonshine. The problem I have is both my friend and I have many years with rods in our hands, and although I am not remotely suggesting that Moonshine rods are top notch, I can't reconcile the good experience we've had using them with the hate. Someone else said it..."There's a lot of other 200.00 rod makers that are more worthy of the hate. Everyone on KZbin is an expert...Thank God through the internet we have access to their opinions to set us straight...lol.

[@vibratingstring]

Hahaha! "stabbing" was hilarious!

[@watershedflyshop]

I never leave comments on KZbin but this was absolute gold!! Completely agree with everything!!

[@charlieboutin3341]

Good one! I use a few of the 💩 items 😂, (loops and rings on 3-4wt Sometimes), but haven’t had a problem or wouldn’t. I couldn’t believe they even make a stomach pump..WTF! Fish your flies with confidence! I really enjoy your comments and insight above most all other channels combined. Thanks for the laughs..and honesty! Its the Huge thing to do! Have a great and Huge week Ben! 👍👌🎣

[@jayfxdx]

Stomach pump is for stillwater fishing, especially chironomid hatches.

[@dustinpost7814]

This is incredible !!! 🤣🤘🏻

[@mattchirhart9678]

Been thinking that about the fly tester since it came out. I bought a cool old bicycle to ride down to the local creek. I can even catch a fish in that fly tester

[@petergiamalakis6733]

I think tippet rings can be very efficient with monofilament leaders in euro nymphing.

[@slickydicky]

It helps your leader live longer for sure

[@omidganjjou6171]

Im using those clips for seatrout on the Danish coastline when we hit freezing temperatures. No way my freezing numb fingers can tie knots.

[@curtheciscokid]

I got the 3wt 7’6” fly rod from moonshine and I couldn’t be happier with it. Not an advocate. But I do like it.

[@amandacraddock5117]

Happy to call myself a Huge Fly Fisher but my friends and I have used braided loops our entire fishing lives and never lost one. This includes salmon up to 30lb. If you fix the. Right they’ll never come off and can slip through rod rings easier than a nail knot.

[@r.w.flyvideos187]

I am triggered on the tippet rings!! Respectfully have to disagree. They do save weights from coming off when the tippet snaps. Saves allot of money if using tin weights. Things are not cheap!

[@ksoutdoors7097]

🔥🔥🔥 Video

[@jacobrohr5903]

the braided loops is so true! I lost what looked like a 24"+ Brown on a float trip because mine popped off.

[@adamw8469]

Do it, Ben, do it!

[@fishkulture]

This is Fuc*:ng GOLD!

[@MikeMouradian]

best vid yet!

[@jameshanson8774]

I used those mesh "add" a loop to your fly line things. Rigged up half my fly poles, lost two leaders and a fish

[@masonpearson6664]

Best product review ever👏👍

[@ed-jack4124]

Looking forward to hearing about 'decked' this June.

[@JP-dz7zu]

I use fly clips for streamers only because I like to change sizes and colors often. They help in that regard, otherwise I agree. Can’t imagine using them for dries or nymphs.

[@JP-dz7zu]

And I’ve never lost a fly with one

[@RespekfulFungus]

@@JP-dz7zu Same here.

[@thereallevel27]

I change the leader and tippet probably 4 times a trip from changing streamers all day. I also cast them in trees and over rocks all day too so I'm good w it

[@JP-dz7zu]

I saw some guy at Deckers with “I suck at fly fishing” gear. Complete waste of money. I could tell he sucked by his cast, mending, and lack of catching fish.

[@samlamerson8372]

I love my Moonshine rod. have caught some great trout on it,

[@adventureproductions7432]

Damn i fell for moonshine but I got the 7' 3wt. I like that rod though

[@slickydicky]

I have a 10 ft 3wt and 9ft 5wt. Both are good rods, fyck what Ben says

[@joedeshazo987]

I have 2 moonshine's myself, must be something personal there with Ben!

[@joeg5414]

Yeah I feel like he's butt hurt over something. I also have a moonshine drifter 7ft6 3wt. It's a good $200 rod. Is it a good $500 rod? No, probably not. I prefer my $200 moonshine rod over my other $200 rods though sooo whatever. I like it enough that I was thinking about ordering their more expensive vesper rod in a 6wt 9ft.

[@deanc8077]

I own a Moonshine 8 wt for salmon and steelhead. It's a great rod nice action unlike many others on the market. Well made for the money.

[@Charactermatters650]

Yup - he must be reppin some fancy company - I have Moonshines new euro rod and it is the real deal - old timer - fishing for many years - I fish what catches and this rod stands up to my few custom rods - Don’t listen to this crap

[@rushthezeppelin]

I like the twist clips actually for streamers in dirty water. Allows you to change out quickly until you find what is working. Haven't tried them in clear water yet though and I do wonder if they will put fish off. The regular fly clips though definitely seem like a joke. The only reason to use them is if you have issues tying knots imo.

[@SamCammers]

I disagree at least with my experience with Moonshine Rods. I have a Drifter 6WT and it fishes very well. Even the guy at my local Orvis store likes them. I’m not saying they’re better or worse than certain rods just that for me, it works very well. They may not work well for everyone.

[@krisclements7545]

Have to agree here.. I have newer 6wt Drifter..its not my Sage X but I only paid $220ish for it... is counterbalanced..good cork.. smooth... rod holder... extra tip did I mention $220ish???

[@CraigArndt]

"You don't need them and I think they're stupid". Definitely will be using that on my kids when they gotta have something, like a tippet ring.

[@keithhoughtelin8278]

I have used a braided loop just about forever!! I have never had one come off my fly line, they work great!!! If you are worried about them coming off use a drop of superglue!!

[@puristonthefly3308]

Ben, you fish Moonshine and Wade rods. I thought you were sponsored by them?

[@bonnitaclaus2286]

I think that was it maybe, 14, when I decided that simple was best. I became very good at tying knots. Fast forward, I’m now 75. I’m not so good at tying knots. Between arthritis, and cataracts it is quite difficult. I’m trying to figure out if I can use a knot tier. Everything that you’ve mentioned I’ve looked at, (i’ve just taken a fly fishing, I need a challenge). I rejected those things they just seemed like extra hardware and on the necessary. I did try those Tippit things to connect your leader . The only way to make sure it stays on is the glue it. Something I’ll never buy again. I tie most of my knots at home with a magnifying light and my hands are warm. At this time I have three different weights, One for trout, And one for larger game fish. The third one, was an El cheapo just to see if I liked it. I saw possibilities, and I love it. I have an 8 1/2 foot and a 9 foot. At this time I do not buy them on my own, I just have to trust the sporting good store, I finding one that has a salesman that is a Fisherman himself. Eventually I’ll Learn and know enough to think for myself again when it comes to fly fishing gear.

[@faffroc12]

Me: “Oh back tf off my loop connector, I hate tying that knot every time I want to change leaders!” Ben: “Use an old leader as your loop.” Me: “…OH.”

[@rugrboutdoors2491]

I use tippet rings all the time nymphing. Attach it where the butt section of your leader slims to the tipper section and tie it on there. When I snag up on rocks that I can't get to and have to break off it always breaks either at the fly or at the tippet ring. Your line getting frayed from rubbing rocks? Cut off the tippet at the ring and get a fresh stretch of tipper. Just tie on a new section of tippet from the ring and back in the game. Saves a lot on buying leaders. Don't know where he gets it's for people who don't know how to tie knots, I still tie a lot of knots. The stomach pump for fish--I totally agree with, horrible idea.

[@jackadamz3]

Convince George Daniel tippet rings suck. To each their own I guess.

[@slickydicky]

@@jackadamz3 who is geroge Daniel?

[@slickydicky]

Im convinced people that hate moonshine rods don't actually fish with them. Moonshine does a lot of charity work, that worth a donation to their cause in my book. But they're not a big company so I don't guess that matters.

[@joedeshazo987]

I agree, have 2 of them and still catch fish, go figure!

[@slickydicky]

@@joedeshazo987 don't get me wrong, They aren't my favorite rod. But I've caught many MANY fish on them, one of which was a nice 5lb smallie. That particular rod ( 9ft 5wt drifter) will always be special to me

[@isaacboettcher3489]

@@joedeshazo987 my roommate catches fish on a $50 Walmart rod but it cast like garbage! Higher end rods cast more accurate and have better feel!

[@slickydicky]

@@isaacboettcher3489 my 450 dollar sage cast just as accurate as my 250 dollar moonshine rod.

[@slickydicky]

@@isaacboettcher3489 I'm far from a pro, but maybe it has more to do with how good of a fisherman you are instead of the actual rod?

[@SithLord_66_80]

MORE PLEASE!

[@lukefadling4504]

Almost wanted to say something but figured It’s best to keep quiet about my secrets. Great video!

[@Aestheticnerdlife]

I think fly clips for nymphing can be a usable thing, they allow the fly to have more natural movement in the water as it tumbles across rocks.

[@dkdanglz6662]

Lol. Your stock fly fisherman photo is one of the local guides in my area. Dude is a legend 🤙🤙

[@HugeFlyFisherman]

Tell him he needs to string up his rod if he wants to be a huge fly fisherman.

[@dkdanglz6662]

@@HugeFlyFisherman 🤣🤣🤣will do. Stay huge🤙

[@joncothranphotography9375]

Too true! Thanks!!!

[@andrewknight8270]

Agree with everything except tippet rings. I euro nymph and every time I fish I have to retie tippet to my sighter and I would much rather tie a clinch Knot to a Tippett ring then tie a blood knot to my sighter line. Also I don’t end up losing any sighter material.

[@joeg5414]

Foam stick on strike indicators are a rip off. Go to the craft section at Walmart. They have packs of full size foam sheets in various colors with sticky backs for like $2. Cut to whatever sizes you want. Enough to last a lifetime. Plus I feel like they work better - last longer and stay in place better after moving.

[@dukealtman]

I own 2 moonshine rods and have a ORVIS h3f and I would say moonshine rods work just fine They aren’t bad

[@scottwilliams6752]

Beautiful!

[@timingram8953]

How do you feel about indicators?

[@johnvanriet3529]

Rrrr classic stuff 👍🏻

[@det282]

I had never even heard of “fly clips” before this video.

[@rotorheadv8]

20 years ago you would have been called “a fishing bum”, working construction to feed your habit. You probably wouldn’t have gotten your own fishing show on some obscure 1/2 hour format at 0200. Because of the internet, you can get out there, 24/7 to the world, for all of us to see, learn and enjoy. Thank you.

[@KillerFuzzOutdoors]

I have owned all models of moonshine rods and the 5wt vesper is a pretty nice rod for the price, I actually liked it more than my Orvis Recon 5wt. The vesper felt like a higher end rod imho

[@scod3908]

They're import products, you can buy directly from Asia and bypass their marketing for better value.

[@dewski2160]

@@scod3908 link?

[@hectatusbreakfastus6106]

Stomach pumps and tailings gloves will never be part of my overly complex fishing vest rig haha. Definitely will have tippet rings and swivels though. If you don't know how to tie knots tie lots :p When I bought all my gear the sales guy said "no you don't need all this stuff but the way I look at it, it's about respecting the fish" plus buying the gear means that I can help fund people who are living their dreams by working in an industry they are passionate about. Hard to complain about that. Most folks I know hate their jobs.

[@LineSpeedJediTimRawlins]

wow, awesome you got big balls. kudos

[@kyleladd7426]

I like my moonshine 6wt rig just fine. The branding on moonshine gear is beautiful imo and I haven’t had any issues with my rod or reel yet.

[@jackstraw207]

I fell into the tippet ring thing for a while. I went back to surgeons knots.

[@slickydicky]

I feel like tippet rings help prolong the life of the leaders though. Probably not that much to make a difference I guess

[@jackstraw207]

@@slickydicky I found that to a degree with nymphing... but when I'd switch to big dries with a lot of false casting I found that my improved hitch knots to the tippet rings would fail... I assume due to the friction of the constant "hinging" at the tippet ring. nothing can be more frustrating than knot failure on a big fish surface take.

[@isaacboettcher3489]

@@slickydicky I do that with a blood knot! I have had the same leader for over a year because I keep extending it

[@slickydicky]

@@isaacboettcher3489 huh, never thought of that

[@slickydicky]

@@jackstraw207 yea I know the feeling. I haven't had it enough times to worth about, but I usually don't fish large dries that often anyway. I can definitely see what you're talking about though

[@johnpetsch5202]

There are so many knot-avoidance products out there. Unbelievable how they can sell any of that garbage. Stay Huge!

[@phillipwetzel3270]

Regarding tippet clips, I have a friend who has quit fly fishing because arthritis in his hands prevents him from tying knots. He's a life long fly fisherman, but simply cannot tie knots any longer. Any suggestions?

[@davidwright-ot5ff]

Yep. I can't tie knots like I used to be able to. Check out the Knot Needle. I love it. I'm sure Ben will trash that too, until he gets older....

[@TheFrugalFlyRodder]

Tippet rings allow me to change tippet sizes without eating away at the leaders I use to make... thats right, (use to make) I use furled leaders now that have tippet rings on them.

[@leslietuk8321]

I love tippet rings because they save my leader and I don't have to change it so often.

[@mdskater210]

My moonshine rod was absolutely Falling apart after 1 year cork was spinning the reel seat slid up guides are delaminating. It got the job done but I'd rather spend 10% more for a higher quality rod. Sage has been an amazing upgrade

[@davidclendening9732]

Agree on moonshine just get a TFO or Echo better rod and a little bit cheaper

[@bonnitaclaus2286]

Question: Can you catch snook on a fly rod? Is it possible to keep them from gilling your your line?

[@patrickharris4641]

yes you can 100% catch a snook on a fly rod lol they're one of the most popular fly rod gamefish. Just step your leader up to 30 lbs and they won't normally cut you

[@owenconner9063]

Ah man… I bought a Moonshine fairly recently. It’s fine for what I got it for… but didn’t realize the issues there. -humorously they sent me the wrong part of the “extra tip” (aka the middle). Keep up the good work Ben even if we secretly like tippet rings 🤣

[@M_Cubs]

Don't worry you didn't waste your money. They are still pretty decent intermediate rods, and the extra trip is nice. However, I've put mine through the ringer and haven't needed the spare tip yet, but its better safe than sorry.

[@joeg5414]

Yeah man I agree with matt here. They're good $200 rods. I've had my 7'6 3wt drifter for about a year and it's been a great small stream rod. I see no reason why I wouldn't buy another moonshine rod outside of people telling me they're trash and not to. I don't really get it.

[@davidwright-ot5ff]

@@joeg5414 I have the 3 wt too, and it's a good rod. Also bought an 8 wt for salmon in Alaska. It was absolute garbage. Like casting with a broom stick.

[@steelhead6368]

You're the best! Nothing more to say.🤣🤣🤣

[@LouisianaSpey]

I use the clips when its cold because i cant feel my fingers and its to hard to tie on small flies

[@FlyFishDan]

Well at least this vid won’t be controversial…oh wait…

[@TheFlyFishingFilmmaker]

hahaha

[@charlieboutin3341]

😂

[@walker_219]

bought a brand new moonshine rod today... i love it