# **How to Choose the Orvis Midge Custom 7’9 #5 Fly Rod**
Fly fishing is an art, and selecting the right rod is crucial for success on the water. The **Orvis Midge Custom 7’9 #5** is a specialized fly rod designed for delicate presentations and precision casting, making it an excellent choice for anglers targeting small streams and technical waters. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when choosing this rod, ensuring it aligns with your fishing style and needs.
## **1. Understanding the Rod’s Design & Purpose**
The **Orvis Midge Custom 7’9 #5** is a **shorter, lightweight fly rod** built for accuracy in tight spaces. Its **7’9” length** offers better control in overgrown streams, while the **#5 weight** provides enough backbone to handle small to medium-sized trout yet remains sensitive enough for delicate dry fly presentations.
– **Best for:** Small streams, spring creeks, technical dry fly fishing.
– **Action:** Medium-fast – balances power and finesse.
– **Material:** High-modulus graphite for durability and responsiveness.
## **2. Matching the Rod to Your Fishing Style**
Before purchasing, consider how and where you fish:
– **Tight Quarters Fishing:** If you frequently fish in brushy or confined areas, the **shorter length** helps avoid snags while maintaining casting accuracy.
– **Dry Fly Specialists:** The rod’s **soft tip** allows for gentle presentations, making it ideal for midge and small mayfly patterns.
– **Nymphing & Light Indicators:** While primarily a dry fly rod, it can handle light nymph rigs if paired with the right line.
## **3. Choosing the Right Fly Line**
A rod is only as good as its line. For the **Midge Custom 7’9 #5**, consider:
– **Weight-Forward (WF) Floating Line:** Enhances loading for short to medium casts.
– **Double Taper (DT) Line:** Offers smoother presentations for delicate dry flies.
– **Specialty Lines:** Some anglers prefer a **Euro-nymphing line** for added versatility.
## **4. Balancing with the Right Reel**
A lightweight reel (3-4 oz) with a smooth drag complements this rod. Recommended options:
– **Orvis Battenkill Disc II (Size II)** – Classic, reliable, and well-balanced.
– **Lamson Liquid (Size 2)** – Affordable with a strong drag system.
## **5. Testing the Rod Before Buying**
If possible, **test-cast** the rod with your preferred line to assess:
– **Casting Feel:** Does it load easily at short distances?
– **Accuracy:** Can you place flies precisely in tricky currents?
– **Recovery Speed:** Does it handle quick mends well?
## **6. Why Choose the Orvis Midge Custom 7’9 #5?**
– **Superb Dry Fly Performance:** Designed for delicate presentations.
– **Compact & Maneuverable:** Perfect for small streams.
– **Versatile Enough for Nymphing:** Handles light indicator rigs effectively.
### **Final Thoughts**
The **Orvis Midge Custom 7’9 #5** is a niche rod that excels in technical fishing scenarios. If you frequently target wary trout in small streams or spring creeks, this rod’s precision and finesse make it a top-tier choice. Pair it with the right line and reel, and you’ll have a setup that enhances both your casting and hook-setting efficiency.
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**Tight lines!** 🎣