Two 4 wts? And another question

So I have one 4 wt Clearwater from Orvis that I purchased last year, and really like it. I'm considering purchasing another 4 wt (or 5) as a backup, or possibly for any friends that have interest in learning fly fishing. Has anyone else ever done this? Worth it? Feels kind of weird buying the same exact rod (might go for a 1/2 foot longer) but I also think it's a real nice quality for $300 (whole setup). Also--why is it that Wisconsin doesn't open up the catch and release season earlier, like say, February or January, while surrounding states have open season now. Was just curious--probably just chopping at the bit.

Went with the 5 wt. Now just need the season to get here to break it in. I've used a 5 wt before for smallmouth, but it just seemed a bit light for any fish around the 13-15 inch range, especially in current. 6 wt does much better for me, along with throwing bigger streamers.

I like the 4 weight as well, but I would have to say that for the midwest a 9ft 5 weight is probably the best all around rod you could own. Depending on the action, it's also a great rod for new fly casters as well. I have fished everything with the 5 weight from nymphs to streamers and buggers for smallies. The 4 weight is my go to rod for small streams, brookies etc... if you own a good 4 weight, I would recommend the 5wt. good luck...

gg, what's your bs rant have to do with a 4wt. question. Start a thread based on your opinion, in my opinion. The earlier suggestion of different lengths is the way I have chosen to go on 4wts.. If I'm fishing streams with a lot of cover, the shorter rods work better. Having a quality reel with a good drag system gives you a chance to fish bigger fish on lighter rods. I use a 9wt. for muskie, 6wt. for smallmouth, 4wt. for trout unless it's the hex hatch, then a 5wt. Good luck!

I have an affinity for 4 weights and own 8 or 9 of them from 6'6" to 10'. Such a versatile weight here in WI. If you feel the need for something different, get a 5. If you are happy with what you are using right now, get another one. The current model Clearwaters are great rods. I have a 6 and an 8 of current green sticks. Tough to beat for the price!

Check craigslist. I have 3 4 wt rods. Reason for this. Bought a nice orvis set up from my uncle.....bought another orvis setup off craigslist for 100. I then took a rod making class and made a flyrod for my first son who was two at the time. I now have two sons which is perfect for what I have. My oldest, 4 now, says "Dad, remember, you made me a fly fishing pole that is like a 1000 dollars or something." Must have heard that from his mom

Yes, Wisconsin's starts on the first weekend of March, this year March 2. I understand closing the season by October due to spawning, etc, so maybe it's still sensitive to that? A 5 wt might be a better choice--may be better for casting for a newbie, and can still place dry flies just fine.

a good thing would be to purchase the 5wt,you may have a siuation some time that would call for larger flies, also consider this,,, a quality rod can handle one line wt higher ,like a 6wt on a 5wt rod. I did this and purchased a 6wt bass taper line, for tossing some larger flies for bass, works fine for me,more versatility,

I agree, but the 5wt .. there is a difference, even though slight, but would give you another tool to use or share. Iowa I don't think closes. I think Paradise Springs opened Jan 1 in Wisconsin (check first), does the early catch and release in Wis open on like March 1st?

It's nice to have another rod just in case. You might find you have a need for a 5wt instead of a 4wt in some cases. Go for it.