2009 Best of the Best: Fly Rods (Best of the Best) Dave Whitlock, who practically invented bass fishing with flies, helped design this rod series, which includes models from 5- to 9-weight. Each rod’s action is smooth and forgiving, yet quick and powerful. These perform best at ranges from 20 to 60 feet, where most casts are made. Think of them as accurate guns, not rocket launchers. For bass, pike, trout, salmon, and more, they can help you make longer casts, wherever you fish. -- KD