Rod Case for Backpacking
- This topic has 10 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated Oct 1, 2006 at 3:33 pm by
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My backpacking trip to the Smokies has moved up to Oct. 5th – 9th, so it looks like I better get busy!
PVC is heavy so I’d stay away from that. Look for one of those clear plastic cylinders that flourescent bulbs are packaged in. Home Depot will probably let you have a couple. Slide the rods and socks into the tube. Duct tape both ends and strap to your pack. This will provide a little extra protection with minimal weight.
Thanks guys – as I prepare for the trip, I have developed some more questions, hope you don’t mind but I have never been to the GSMNP.
Bill,
#1 You can wet wade all the streams you’ve mentioned in October. The water level is typically low in October and the fish are spooky. I try to stay out of the water as much as possible. You’ll most likely get your feet wet when crossing the streams. Very few times do I stand in water over knee deep for any length of time. I use the nylon zip-off pants to fish and hike in. They dry really fast. For shoes, I wera a lightweight Patagonia felt soled boot with a pair of synthetic socks underneath. Leave the waders at home.
#2 I’d take the lightweight bag and sleep in a pair of thermal polypro underwear or fleece. A small knit cap goes a loooong way in kepping you warm at night. When my cabbage is warm, the rest of body is warm 🙂
#3 You’re rods will do fine. I use a 7′ 6″ 4weight bamboo and a 7′ 10″ graphite 4-weight almost exclusively….but yours are great as well. It’s all about preference. Both will catch fish and you’re typically not chunking heavy streamers.
#4 There used to be One Fly Flyshop in Cherokee and Clampetts Hardware in Bryson City but I don’t know if they are still there. I fished those streams for over 20 years so I pretty much have everything covered. Make sure your terrestrials are stocked up, particularly ants and beetles. I have good luck in the fall on a yellow jacket that I tie.
Here I am wet wading in GSMNP in October:
seewilliefish,
I’m headed up to GSMNP next month as well. More than likely I’ll be by myself. How many in your party? It may be that I could coincide with your trip and point out some likely spots if you’re interested. I’m strictly lightweight backpacking as opposed to car camping. I’m a firm believer that the quality of fishing goes up, the farther you get from your car.
Lemme know if you’re interested.
DrifterI wouldn’t say that it will make or break your trip…but the short rods are REALLY enjoyable to fish on these narrow tree lined and covered rivers. This past trip to N.C. really showed me how enjoyable a seven foot is…and how different it is from using the “long” eight foot plus rods. Thoughout the day I didn’t have worry about catching a branch with my backcast…or sending a missed hookset into the trees above.
These are great waters for old glass rods and new…such as a Scott “F” in any weight…though I’d suggest a three or four weight for all around use. Also nice are slow to medium action graphite as well.
Just my two cents.
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