The Best Moonshine Fly Rods for Your Next Big Fishing Trip
Have you been looking for a top-notch fly rod? You've likely come across the brand Moonshine, which is well-regarded for its quality and performance. These rods are meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, making them a top choice for any serious anglers out there. In this post, we'll discuss the best Moonshine fly rods of 2024, their features, and why they're an excellent choice for fishermen — my personal favorite is the Moonshine Rod Co. Revival Series Fly Rod. On top of that, we'll share some tips on buying Moonshine fly rods to help you make the right decision for your fishing trip. Let's get started!
Our Top Picks
- Moonshine Fly Rods: A Buyer’s Guide
- People Also Asked
- What materials are Moonshine fly rods made from?
- What sizes and lengths do Moonshine fly rods come in?
- Are Moonshine fly rods good for beginners?
- What line weights do Moonshine fly rods support?
- Do Moonshine fly rods come with a warranty?
- How much do Moonshine fly rods cost?
- How do I care for and maintain my Moonshine fly rod?
- Related Reviews
The Best Moonshine Fly Rods of 2024
Best Overall
The Moonshine Rod Co. Revival Series Fly Rod is the perfect blend of old and new that appeals to beginners and experienced anglers alike, making it the “best overall” product on this list. Combining classic fiberglass construction with modern features, this rod combines performance, style, and convenience.
The rod has slow-action fiberglass designed for close casts and gentle presentation. It also has AAA cork grips with burled ends, a spalted burl reel seat, and copper anodized hardware for maximum durability. The two-piece design allows for easy transportation and storage and even comes with an extra rod tip section in case of emergency.
For added convenience, the rod also comes with a durable hard canvas fly rod tube for protection from bumps, dirt, water, mud, and more. Plus, it looks great thanks to an embroidered Moonshine logo on the front face.
Pros
- Versatile, perfect for stream hoppers
- Well-balanced rod and reel
- Extra tip section provided as a bonus
- Offers a smooth, slower casting experience
Cons
- May take some time to get used to
Best Value
The Moonshine Rod Co. Drifter Series Fly Rod is the perfect fly fishing rod for all skill levels. Crafted with performance-grade medium action graphite, this rod has a sleek and durable finish that will last you season after season. The cork grips are high-grade AAA with burled ends, while the burl reel seat is double-locking and dyed to showcase the impressive wood graining.
This rod also comes with two rod tip sections, so you’ll always have a replacement handy, and a durable, hard canvas fly rod tube for extra protection from bumps and dirt. This protective case has an embroidered Moonshine logo and a sleek, compact design that allows you to fish anywhere. The Drifter Series also features effortless casting ability and can throw big flies while maintaining a gentle presentation. It is designed to give anglers of all skill levels an easy experience on the water. And as the cherry on top, this Moonshine fly rod includes a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind.
Pros
- Premium craftsmanship and materials
- Lightweight, well-balanced, and affordable
- Effortless, long-distance casting
- Bend in the rod allows longer casting
Cons
- No guide dots on sections for alignment
Most Accurate
For the fly fisherman looking for a rod that provides top-notch performance, look no further than Moonshine Rod Co. The Epiphany II Fly Rod. This high-quality rod is constructed with anti-glare, blackout blanks, and high-modulus graphite, delivering superior casting accuracy while shaving over one ounce of the total weight to improve swing weight.
The four-piece fly fishing rod features raven and concrete bindings, copper accents, and an alignment dot. Further enhancing performance, a titanium frame SiC stripping guide reduces line sag and eases knot pass-through on loaded rods. The extra tip section included with the rod ensures a replacement is always handy should you ever need it.
Portability is key when fly fishing in faraway places, and Moonshine also has you covered there. The rod includes a durable five-compartment rod tube that protects from bumps, dirt, water, and mud. Its sleek, compact design allows fishermen to go wherever they desire. Create the ultimate fly fishing experience with this amazing Moonshine fly rod.
Pros
- Accurate for short Euro nymph casts
- Overhead casting capabilities
- Lightweight and balanced
- Sensitive tip for fishing smaller fish
Cons
- A little pricier than other rods
Best for Seasoned Anglers
The Moonshine Rod Co. The Outcast II Fly Rod is perfect for any serious fisherman. This rod is designed to take on even the toughest saltwater conditions and species. It features an anti-glare, powerful, fast-action blank made from high-modulus graphite with concrete bindings and titanium frame SiC stripping guides. The rod also features a matte engraved aluminum reel seat and stainless hard chrome snake guides for long-lasting durability. Plus, it has an AAAA grade cork, HD double blackout rings, Delrin bushings, and a fighting butt to ensure you’re ready for anything.
The sleek, compact rod design allows you to take it anywhere easily. It comes in a five-compartment rod tube with an extra rod tip section to protect it from all conditions. If an accident does happen, however, you can get a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty to get back up and running in no time.
Pros
- High quality combined with top-notch performance
- Lightweight design with large guides
- Smooth casting action
- Fast action for windy days
Cons
- Rod tip snapped for some users
Best Performance
The Moonshine Rod Co. The Epiphany Series Fly Rod is a versatile, high-performance fishing tool designed to elevate your angling experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting your fly fishing journey, this 3wt rod is built to impress.
Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the Epiphany Series combines quality materials and expert craftsmanship to deliver a rod that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The rod blank is constructed from high-modulus graphite, ensuring strength, sensitivity, and excellent casting performance. Its Euro/Czech nymph style design makes it particularly well-suited for tight-line nymphing techniques, allowing you to feel even the most subtle strikes.
The Epiphany Series features a responsive and lightweight design, providing the sensitivity and control needed to accurately present your flies. Its progressive taper allows for smooth loading and precise casting, helping you easily reach those hard-to-reach spots. And, because it offers the perfect balance between finesse and power, this rod is ideal for targeting smaller fish species like trout and panfish.
Pros
- High-quality construction and smooth casting
- Great for smaller fish species
- Comes with a durable carrying case
- Extra rod tip section
Cons
- Not ideal for catching larger fish
Moonshine Fly Rods: A Buyer’s Guide
Looking for a fly fishing rod that offers unparalleled balance and quality? Trust me, Moonshine fly rods are the way to go. After carefully reviewing the brand’s top options, our team has put together a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice. Keep reading to make sure you get the best value for your money, all while taking your fly fishing game to the next level.
Everything You Need To Look for in a Fly Fishing Rod
Rod Length
When choosing a fishing rod, I recommend that you consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing, whether it’s in rivers, streams, lakes, or ponds. Longer rods are great for casting over long distances, while shorter rods are better for smaller bodies of water where accuracy is key.
Action
A rod’s action is another important factor to consider. Fast action rods are designed for precision casting and accuracy, while slower action rods are more forgiving and allow small adjustments in distance or power. Always consider how you want to use your rod before settling on a specific option.
Line Weight
Make sure to match the weight of the line and lure with your rod’s weight rating. While this may seem minor, doing this will make casting not just easier, but more effective.
Power
Power is determined by a fly rod’s stiffness, usually measured in pounds. Higher power is better for bigger fish in larger bodies of water, while lower power rods do well in smaller spaces. Think about what kind of fish and environment you’ll be fishing in when to determine the power level you’ll need.
Price
A Moonshine fly rod’s price varies depending on the quality, materials used, and number of features it offers. Before making a purchase, always make sure the price aligns with your budget. Also, keep in mind that a rod’s price doesn’t necessarily reflect its quality; keep an eye out for affordable gems that might fit your needs better than a pricier model
Material
Choosing a Moonshine fly rod’s material comes down to what feels right in your hands and what you’ll be using it for. If you’re looking for a smooth, easy cast and want to feel every nibble, graphite should be your go-to. But if you’re heading into some rough waters, fiberglass offers sturdiness that can take a beating and keep on casting.
Handle
Some people prefer cork handles, which provide a good grip and are lightweight, while EVA foam handles are easier to clean and deliver comfortable gripping even when wet from sweat or water exposure. Both have their pros and cons, so just choose whichever best suits your needs.
Guides
Aluminum oxide guides are great for those just starting out, offering durability and cost-effectiveness. For the seasoned angler, titanium or stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts are worth the investment, providing superior strength and minimal friction for longer, smoother casts. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference, experience, and how much one is willing to invest in their fishing gear.
Reel Seat
The reel seat is a key player in the fishing game, holding your reel firmly in place while you cast from boat or shore. It’s designed to fit snugly with just a twist or two, and it stands up to whatever nature throws your way. Whether you’re adjusting tension or power, a top-notch reel seat lets you focus on the catch, not the equipment.
Warranty
A fly rod’s warranty is a testament to its quality, offering assurance against defects and damage. Additionally, opting for reputable dealers not only ensures authenticity but also often adds extra layers of protection. Always double-check the product’s legitimacy through its packaging and the manufacturer’s official site to make the most of the warranty’s full scope.
People Also Asked
What materials are Moonshine fly rods made from?
Moonshine fly rods are made from high-grade graphite, fiberglass, and other premium materials.
What sizes and lengths do Moonshine fly rods come in?
Moonshine fly rods are available in a variety of sizes and lengths, ranging from 5 feet to 9 feet.
Are Moonshine fly rods good for beginners?
Yes, Moonshine fly rods are perfect for beginners due to their lightweight and easy-to-use design.
What line weights do Moonshine fly rods support?
The rods support a range of line weights from 1 to 12 weights.
Do Moonshine fly rods come with a warranty?
Yes, each rod comes with an industry-leading lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
How much do Moonshine fly rods cost?
The cost varies depending on the size and model, but most Moonshine fly rods retail for around $200 to $400.
How do I care for and maintain my Moonshine fly rod?
To keep your rod in top condition for years, clean and store it properly after each use. After cleaning the rod, be sure to dry it completely before storing it in a cool, dry place. Before each use, inspect your rod for any visible damage or wear to prevent accidental breakage or damage while out on the water.