I have a two piece fly rod I would like to take with me to Yellowstone. I am flying there,can I carry on the plane? Check it as luggage? Would it be safe checked and in a tube? Or should I just take my four piece 4wt in my luggage.

Hi dresch.

It depends how long your sections are.......if your 2 piece is a 9' rod , your sections being approx 4'6" then you have no chance at all of getting it on as hand luggage , but can easily be checked into the hold.

The same applies to a 9' 4 piece , you won't be able to take as hand luggage but can easily be checked into the hold.

Regards

SL

I have traveled trans-Atlantic in the other direction, from the US to the UK, and I can confirm what SL says. I've taken a full length rod tube (about 4'10") and it went through as baggage no problem.

When you say "in a tube" do you mean in the tube the manufacturer provided with the rod? If so, I'd advise against trying this as many of those cordura tubes aren't all that sturdy. I'd get a PVC travel tube, they don't cost that much and one tube can hold 2-3 rods.

It's very difficult or impossible to take a fly rod on as carry on baggage these days and really it isn't worth the bother to even try. You'll be checking baggage no matter what, so avoid problems and just check your rods as well.

I've fished with a 4 wt in YNP before. The big wildcard in the western US in general is wind. If you're sticking to the small rivers and creeks, a 4 is fine. Out on the Yellowstone, Madison, and the bigger rivers like that, you may find yourself under-gunned and struggling if the wind is up. Also, you have to consider the likely tactics, chucking hoppers or a nymphing rig in a wind is a real chore with a 4.

Also, keep in mind, YNP is in the middle of nowhere and it's a long drive from most places in the park to get to a fly shop etc. Personally, I wouldn't consider going with less than 2 rods because if you snap a tip, it's game over for that day if you don't have a spare.

One more thought. With airlines charging more and more hidden ripoff fees for each piece of luggage, you may find that taking your 2 pc rod will cost a considerable amount if your airline charges you for a extra bag both ways. Make sure you know before you get to the airport what the baggage charges will be. It might not be worth trying to take a 2 pc rod at all if you're going to get hit with big charges both ways. Either buy another 4 pc or leave the 2 pc at home.

Good luck and beware of the bison.

Grouse

In the past when i have travelled to the usa i have actually posted it to the hotel i was staying at no problems at all.

No chance as hand luggage, either pack four piece in suitcase, or get travel case for two piece and it goes in hold as well.
regards
bert.

All fishing tackle, flies, reels & rods must go in the hold.

Ifor

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I use a Fishpond rolling duffel that has a bottom section, that holds two rod tubes, waders, boots and vest. All locked up with appropriate airline approved padlocks it's safe and sound.

I'd go with what Grouse said too - make sure your rod tubes are 'sturdy' as baggage handlers aren't known for their gentle touch.

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