Where is the correct balance point on a fly rod?

[saflyfish]

Hi guys
When i have a reel (including line & backing) on a particular rod,where should the balance point be with a finger?Is there a "correct" place?

[Ko7Ad]

Interesting question, I hope more knowledgeable gents join in but I like my setup balanced on the center of the area my hand holds on the grip during a cast.

[GrahamS]

IMO the whole thing about balance point is a worthless exercise, because a rod is not used as a static object. Casting is a dynamic activity and will constantly change the swing-point of a rod, depending on a number of factors (how much line you have out, how much inertia the line has (line weight & cast speed), wind, etc.).

The only way to actually find out if a particular setup is 'balanced' for your use, is to cast it

[Ko7Ad]

IMO the whole thing about balance point is a worthless exercise, because a rod is not used as a static object. Casting is a dynamic activity and will constantly change the swing-point of a rod, depending on a number of factors (how much line you have out, how much inertia the line has (line weight & cast speed), wind, etc.).

The only way to actually find out if a particular setup is 'balanced' for your use, is to cast it

I agree to an extent but to say that looking at the balance point is worthless is maybe too far. I don't care much for the balance of the setup in a cast as you said it’s a dynamic activity, but trying to hold a tip heavy rod in your hand whilst you nymph the whole day is another story.

The less you strain yourself whilst fishing the more you can enjoy the experience and focus on fishing.

[GrahamS]

I agree to an extent but to say that looking at the balance point is worthless is maybe too far. I don't care much for the balance of the setup in a cast as you said it’s a dynamic activity, but trying to hold a tip heavy rod in your hand whilst you nymph the whole day is another story.

The less you strain yourself whilst fishing the more you can enjoy the experience and focus on fishing.

Sure, but trying to find the exact balance point is futile. Your balance test should include however much line you typically nymph with, if the intended purpose is nymphing. But I think holding a rod and reel, with the eyes loaded with line, will give you general idea of if the setup is tip or butt heavy.

[poppernel]

:Puzzled!!!! TIP HEAVY rod.:frown:

[Ko7Ad]

Hahaha. I only find that I have problems with heavy tips when its a slow action, as the action goes up so does the tip

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[GGY]

If you rig up the rod with the reel and run line and a few extra metres through the guides, the correct balance point should be under your index to middle finger. If the balance point is in front of the grip, you are going to get tired holding the rod tip up south your forearm muscles when nymphing. If balance point is being your hand, then you are swinging unnecessary weight.

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[saflyfish]

Where must your middle/index finger be on the rod?

[GGY]

Where must your middle/index finger be on the rod?

Depends on what grip you use (thumb or forefinger on top - most do thumb) and where on the handle you place your hand (generally in the middle. but some hold top/bottom of grip - depending upon angler and grip design).
So where YOU have your middle/index finger is where it should balance (or close to that point, with my preferance for bias being towards the reel, not towards the rod tip)