Gear Up Without the Investment
RentalShared Trip
Backcountry Fishing
Affordable fly rod, spinning rod and wader rental service availableTry gear before purchasing or rent while traveling through areaFlexible meetup and dropoff options with callahead booking required
Whether you're itching to test drive that premium fly rod before dropping serious cash or you're passing through town without your usual setup, Chattanooga Fly Fish has you covered. Our top-rated rental program puts quality gear in your hands without breaking the bank. From lightweight fly rods perfect for technical presentations to reliable spinning setups for versatile fishing, we've got the right tools for whatever the water throws at you. Plus, our waders will keep you dry and comfortable while you work those prime fishing spots.
This rental service is all about flexibility and convenience. You're not locked into buying gear that might not suit your style, and you don't have to worry about hauling equipment across state lines. Our carefully maintained rods come rigged and ready, whether you're planning to drift nymphs through deep pools or work topwater lures around structure. The spinning gear handles everything from finesse presentations to power fishing, while our fly rods cover weights from delicate dry fly work to streamer slinging. Waders are cleaned and inspected between rentals, so you can focus on reading the water instead of worrying about leaks. We'll meet you at convenient spots around the area, making pickup and dropoff painless. This customer favorite setup lets you fish like a local without the gear commitment.
Our rental fleet includes both fly fishing and spinning setups tailored for regional waters. The fly rods range from 4-weight rods perfect for small stream work to 8-weight sticks that can handle bigger water and wind. Each comes with a matching reel loaded with proper line weight and a basic leader setup. Spinning gear covers ultralight rods for finesse fishing up to medium-heavy actions for working cover and fighting stronger fish. Reels are spooled with quality monofilament or fluorocarbon depending on the application. Waders come in chest-high and hip-high options, all with felt or rubber soles depending on where you plan to wade. We also stock essential tackle – flies, lures, weights, and terminal gear – so you can customize your approach based on current conditions. Everything gets a thorough inspection before it goes out, because nobody wants equipment failure when the fish are biting.
The Southeast offers world-class fishing opportunities, and having the right gear makes all the difference in connecting with these fish. Trout are the crown jewel of Appalachian streams, with wild browns and rainbows that demand precise presentations and quality equipment. These fish are incredibly line-shy and require delicate tippets and accurate casting – exactly why testing gear before buying matters so much. Spring and fall offer the most consistent action, with fish actively feeding in 50-60 degree water. Browns can push 20+ inches in the right spots and will test your drag system when they make their powerful runs toward cover.
Smallmouth bass provide explosive action that's perfect for both fly and spinning gear. These bronze fighters are aggressive and acrobatic, often clearing the water multiple times during a fight. They love rocky structure and current breaks, making them ideal targets for rental gear test drives. Summer months see the most consistent action, with fish staging in deeper pools during the day and moving shallow to feed at dawn and dusk. A 4-pound smallmouth will bend any rod and give you a real feel for how equipment performs under pressure.
Spotted bass and largemouth round out the warm-water options, with spots preferring moving water while largemouths hold in quieter backwaters and lake systems. Both species respond well to varied presentations, letting you experiment with different rod actions and lure weights. These fish grow hefty in Southern waters, with largemouths regularly pushing 5+ pounds and providing serious battles that showcase gear capabilities.
Don't let gear concerns keep you off the water when renowned fishing opportunities are calling. Our rental program removes the barriers between you and some of the best angling in the region. Whether you're considering a major gear purchase or just need quality equipment for a weekend getaway, we've made it simple and affordable. The try-before-you-buy approach saves money and ensures you end up with gear that matches your fishing style. Call us to discuss rates, availability, and meetup options that work with your schedule. Popular rental periods fill up fast, especially during prime fishing seasons, so reach out early to secure your preferred dates. Get ready to experience what proper gear can do for your fishing success.
Chattanooga