The ERA is Douglas's entry-level rod — a four-piece graphite rod with a limited lifetime warranty at the lowest price Douglas builds. It is the answer when someone wants to try fly fishing without spending real money, or when you need a spare in the truck that you will not agonize over.
Models we carry
| Model | Line | Length | Pieces | Weight | Best at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| F5904 | 5 wt | 9' 0" | 4 | 3.14 oz | Versatile all-around freshwater trout rod |
| F8904 | 8 wt | 9' 0" | 4 | 4.00 oz | Bass, salmon, steelhead, big wind-resistant flies |
Douglas also builds the ERA in 4 and 6 weight. We stock the 5 and 8 — the two that cover the most ground. Ask if you want one of the others ordered in. Current pricing is on the selector above.
Who this rod is for
- Getting started. The 5 weight will teach you to cast and catch trout. You will outgrow it eventually, and that is fine at this price.
- A rod for the truck. Everyone should own a rod they do not worry about.
- Guests and kids. Affordable enough to hand someone who has never held a fly rod.
- A backup on a trip. If you break your good rod on day one of a week-long trip, the spare in the tube saves the week.
Being straight with you: this is an entry-level rod and it casts like one. It is heavier and less refined than a DXF GEN2 or a Sky G, and you will feel that difference immediately if you cast them side by side. What the ERA gives you is a functional, warrantied fly rod at the bottom of Douglas's range. If your budget stretches, the DXF GEN2 is a meaningfully better rod. If it does not, this one will absolutely catch fish.
Components
- Blank: lightweight graphite, grey finish
- Guides: lightweight — Douglas does not publish brand or material for this series
- Grip: cork
- Included: Cordura tube with an integrated rod sleeve (no separate sock)
Warranty: Douglas limited lifetime, same coverage as their flagship rods. That is unusual at this price and it is the main reason we stock the ERA rather than something cheaper.
Ed's Fly Shop, 432 E Main St, downtown Montrose, Colorado.