On Nov 7, 2:46 pm, Mike wrote:

If the rods have butt caps, one could engrave names or numbers on
them.


That's a good idea. They do have metal butt caps, and I have an
engraver. It won't be as pretty as their name on the shaft, but it
will be easier.

It would interest me to know what rods you have decided on?


I got a good discount from LL Beans; for beginners I think they have
some good balanced packages. I am getting the Quest II 9' 5wt 4pc
package that comes with a 5/6 wt LA reel, stocked with leader, backing
and Streamlight line (its beginner line, slightly overweighted).
Bean's is giving me a 20% discount, which offsets the 14% shipping,
plus some.

Beans makes the 4pc rod in 9' lengths only. They do make the 2pc rod
in 8'6" lengths, but since any fly fishing out of HK will involve a
commerical airline, I think a travel rod is a better investment. I
also think an 8'6" rod is a bit short for good casting, and you
sacrifice on reach when nymphing, so I don't mind that the shorter
option isn't available.

--M