Bonefish rod for Belize

[rkfiske]

Hey guys,
I'll be out in Belize on my honeymoon this June and am trying to pick up an outfit for the trip. I'll be guided for 3 days and will most likely get to fish a majority of my first week of the trip as well. I haven't completely considered my budget yet, but I'm looking at a 7wt or 8wt. It would end up being a nice rod for surf fishing back home as well. Anyone have any suggestions or perhaps don't mind getting together to let me test cast some?

[Jimbo Roberts]

Depends on your budget.....
I love Sage rods, but they are pricey. I'm currently using a 20 year old RPLXI 8wt and it's wonderful.
The new Salt is even better and some like their fastest rod called Method for the coast. If you want something like that at a bargin then check out places like Ebay and wait for a deal. (also previous generations; RPLXI2, RPLXI3, TCX)
I've also heard some good things about Hardy's Proaxis X from people I respect. People say they are impossible to break, but I guess they don't know about me. I've never fished one yet.
TFO also makes probably the best new rod (retail) for the money, and I would look at the ones called Mangrove or Axiom.

Jimbo

[BobK]

I fish Belize about once a year. Also the Bahamas, Florida and even went to Christmas Island once. I take an 8, a 10 and a 12wt rod, but the last 2, only because I chase Tarpon a lot. Go with the 8 instead of a 7 even though the Bones are on the small side. The reason being you could find yourself throwing at Barracudas Jack Crevalle and eve the possible Baby Tarpon. Yes you will be undergunned for some of those, but a 9 wt is way to big for the Bones. Also, all of the above mentioned rods are TFO TICR's or TICR X's. I do splurge on my reels. Bob

[Wingnut]

I don't know if you are interested in a so so quality rod but......

8wt

http://www.wyomingflyfishing.com/Temple ... P2632.aspx

[rkfiske]

Thanks for all the suggestions guys, good ole flybob was kind enough to loan me an 8wt for the trip, and I'm thinking about picking up a 7wt as my backup since I've been hunting for a 7wt for the surf...

I was considering getting a St. Croix Legend Elite for the 7wt, seems to be a solid rod in that price bracket, anybody have experience with that line? I think St. Croix rods kind of run the gamut.

Getting really excited for the fishi-err honeymoon trip! But in all honesty it'll be amazing to chase bonefish finally and get to spend the rest of my time relaxing with the lady.