I have an 8'6 5wt which is no problem to travel with as the rod tube is 29" and it fits into most luggage.

But I also have a 2 piece Hardy Flyweight 6' rod - the rod tube is 41" (104cm) long - which I want to travel with this year.

Any ideas how to travel by air with this rod? I'm not that keen to put it straight through to hold luggage on its own as I've been on a trip before when one of the party had their rod stolen and we've all heard of similar stories. Most of the rolling duffel bags I've seen only go to 33". Is there anything on the market big enough?

Rod in tube then in a heavy PVC pipe in a triangular section carboard box (doesn't roll), padded to withstand caber tossing practice. Make a tape or string handle. It may count as a bag so check your allowance. Otherwise you might find a jumbo army style kitbag to accommodate the same and the rest of your gear

Thank Taniwha. I'm using Ryanair on both occasions so ideally when I pay over the extra fee with a smile I want one bag to hold everything in, like waders, boots, etc.

A wheelie cricket kit bag might also be an option...

This one's 102cm x 35 x 35 and £40 (relatively cheap compared to fly fishing branded luggage).

You're brave. See note from their T&Cs
"Sporting equipment including but not limited to large fishing rods, golf clubs, bicycles, scooters, fencing equipment, surfboards, bodyboards, snowboards and skis and large musical instruments including but not limited to cellos, harps, double bass and drums are inherently unsuitable for carriage by airlines operating fast turnarounds such as Ryanair. However, these items may be carried in the hold of the aircraft in addition to your personal checked baggage allowance up to a limit of 20* kilos per item upon payment of an additional discounted fee per item, per one way flight if booked online. If the item is not booked until arrival at the airport or through a Ryanair call centre the full fee will apply (Click here for rate details). Any item of sports equipment weighing over 20 kilos will be charged for the excess weight at the applicable rate per kilo. *Bikes have an weight limit of 30 kilos

Due to space limitations on the aircraft, we recommend that all sports equipment is booked online either at the time of booking or via the Manage My Booking section. Click here for details"[/SIZE]

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Or a bag for fencing equipment, I think they are longer

Don't know Ryanair specifically, but When I've traveled with longer rod tubes I've taken them in my carry-on baggage as a personal item. You are allowed to have one personal item and one carry on bag. The rod tube is put in the coat closet on the plane.

Thanks,
Rick

You can turn up with a big tube and on the day they will make you put it in the hold.And you have no chance of taking a big rod tube onboard a Ryanair costalot robbery flight.

Jim

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The Fishermans Friend is the Flirty Fly,Fickle Food for Fleeting Fish.