Best Starter Kits for 2026

In 2011, I bought my first kit and it was a disaster. I’ve spent the last decade testing gear on Montana’s rivers so you don’t have to. These three kits are the only ones I recommend for beginners today.

Recommended Starter Kit Breakdowns

ORVIS ENCOUNTER FLY ROD OUTFIT

The Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit is widely considered the gold standard for new anglers. While many starter kits include low-quality fly line that tangles easily, Orvis includes a premium weight-forward floating line that helps you feel the rod “load,” which is crucial for mastering your timing.

• The Vibe: The reliable “first car” that performs well enough to keep for a decade.
• What’s in the Box: 4-piece rod, large arbor reel, backing, weight-forward line, and leader.
• The Pros: Smooth, crisp performance; backed by a respected brand with deep roots in education.
• The Cons: The reel is made of composite (plastic), which is lightweight but less durable than metal.

Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit$298.00

WILD WATER DELUXE STARTER PACKAGE

If you want to spend the absolute minimum while still getting quality gear, the Wild Water Deluxe Starter Package is the way to go. It is uniquely focused on the total beginner, including not just the rod and reel, but also the small accessories (like nippers and forceps) that most other kits leave out.

• The Vibe: The all-inclusive resort of fly fishing—everything you need is in the bag.
• What’s in the Box: IM8 graphite rod, die-cast aluminum reel, 18 flies, fly box, nippers, forceps, and a hard travel case.
• The Pros: Incredible out-of-the-box readiness; includes a lifetime rod warranty.
• The Cons: The flies included are basic; you’ll likely want to upgrade your fly selection within a few trips.

Wild Water Deluxe Fly Fishing Starter Package$160.00

REDINGTON TROUT FIELD KIT

The Redington Trout Field Kit is for the beginner who knows they are going to stick with the sport and wants gear that won’t need to be upgraded in a year. It pairs a high-performance medium-fast action rod with a durable metal reel and a Rio Gold fly line, which is one of the best trout lines on the market.

• Vibe: The “pro-sumer” choice for the serious student of the sport.
• What’s in the Box: Medium-fast rod, Redington RUN reel (aluminum), Rio Gold fly line, and a rod/reel carrying case.
• The Pros: Includes a lifetime warranty and a high-quality machined reel.
• The Cons: Higher initial investment than the budget kits.

Redington Trout Field Kit$389.99

Final Summary

For the absolute best balance of brand trust and performance, go with the Orvis Encounter. If you are on a strict budget and want every single tool included, the Wild Water Deluxe is unbeatable. If you want a kit that will grow with you for many years, invest in the Redington Trout Field Kit.