I am an avid fly fisherman who spends all of my free time on the water, tying flies, painting or drawing fly fishing scenes or writing about fly fishing on my websites and blogs. I spend time fishing locally and on the road and/or flying to destinations. About 6 years ago it was my fly-in trips that led me to do some research in regards to packable rods. This is a product review of my use involving the Cabela's Stowaway™ 5-Piece Rod.
When I purchased my first travel outfit I decided to go with the 5 piece offered by Cabela's. I already had a few nice 5 weight rods that were two piece outfits and was somewhat skeptical about a multi-piece set-up. I was concerned about a number of items including the ability to throw heavy flies and cut through wind. I also wanted to be sure that I could softly present a size 22 BWO with the lightest of tippet. Another concern of mine was that the rod itself would tend to slip apart throughout the time I spent on the water. There is nothing worse than losing 1/5th of your rod in the river on a fly-in trip.
Having expressed a few of my concerns with originally purchasing a 5 piece stowaway rod I did some research in regards to price and others previous experience. I found rods in price from $60 all the way to $2000. This being my first multi-piece rod I chose to stay near the less expensive range. I also assumed that I would tend to use my two piece rods when I fished locally and only use the stowaway rod when I travelled. HOW I WAS WRONG!!
I ended up purchasing the Cabela's Stowaway™ 5-Piece Rod and paired it with a Cahill reel. When I purchased it as a combination it came with a WF5W floating line, backing, a leader and a nice green case that allows you to store the rod and reel. The case is approximately 22" long and stores easily.
I found that the rod itself is a very nice dark green with a cork grip and a wood eel seat. When assembled the rod stays together with minimal need to re-snug the joints. I also found that there is a good amount of action to the rod. I am able to use the 5 weight to cast large streamers and bass bugs when I am on some of my home waters that have small mouth.
Since my original purchase of the Cabelas outfit I have purchased and additional 5 weight as a back-up rod. I now tend to use this outfit over my more expensive 2 piece rods because I like the portability and the action.
In conclusion, I am sure some of the more expensive travel rods have wonderful components and action. However, if you are looking for an affordable packable rod that has great action then you can not go wrong with the Cabela's Stowaway™ 5-Piece Rod.
Check out my fly fishing art works at:
http://dryflywaters.com/JW
