The five piece travel rod should be fine. While I personally do not own one,
two guys who I fish with all the time both have them and I never hear them
complain. They have both caught plenty of fish on them.

As far as buying a new fly combo setup goes, I think that your going a
little light. I would probably go with a six weight. This will get you into
medium sized trout (a few pounds) and a little larger. You can even have fun
with Bass around 5+ lbs with a six weight. Maybe some other guys have
different opinions - lets wait to hear.

One thing I disagree with is the where you say a quality reel is not as
important. I have spent very little for some very crappy reels that have
broken, or just had poor action. Even thought it is more expensive, I like a
reel that has it's drag on the hub instead of one of those little dials you
have to turn, but thats me.


"Kevin" wrote in message
...
Also, does anyone have opinions of 5pc travel type rods vs. 2pc rods? I
will be hiking in to many places and would like to know if there is a
difference in these rods. In other words, will the 5pc travel rod feel
sluggish or whippy compared to a comperable 2pc? Thanks in advance.


"Kevin" wrote in message
...
I'm looking to get a complete 'beginners kit' in the under $250 range.
I
have been told by many shops and friends to look for a 5wt 9' rod with
quality line (reel not as important). Some have recommended 4wt as I
plan
on fishing for trout in smaller rivers and streams (but may want to
branch
out later). I have seen complete kits vary from location to location,
some
including only the rod and reel while others include rod, reel, line,
case,
flies and even a vest.

Can anyone provide advise with what to look for in a starter kit and/or
individual components; or recommend a starter set for me?