Best size Bug Launcher for 9 year old?

[JBplusThuy]

I'm thinking of getting my daughter a TFO Bug Launcher for (semi) good behavior, but not sure which would be the best model for her. The choices are a 7' 4/5 weight or 8' 5/6 weight. I'm thinking it might be the 7' with a 5 weight line, but I've been known to be wrong :p

Your thoughts?

Thanks!

Jonathan

[Greg McWilliams]

Is this Her first fly rod????? I would agree with you 7' with the 5 wt. line!!!!!! Now on the other hand if her BEHAVIOR improves go with the 8'6" 4 wt.!!!! http://www.templeforkflyrods.com/products/rods/signature.html

Those products are sound and Quality !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Mark Stine]

the longer roads are usually a little easier to cast and its only 0.3 oz. heavier.

[J. B. Hillard]

I think I would go with the 7 ft if casts are reasonably short. I have a 7, 8 and 9, and use the 7 75% of the time.  I usually fish narrow creeks and rivers and the 7 is just right. Only time I use the 9 is in more open areas.  I'm not all that good so need plenty of back cast space.

[Bill Purmort]

I'd go with the shorter rod not only because of the casting advantages but also kids with long rods soon end up with multiple short rods...they stick them in the ground walking, slam them in doors, catch the tips getting in and out of the boat, etc.

[JBplusThuy]

Thanks for the input, everyone! It looks like I'll be going with the 7 foot rod.  I've heard such good things about the bug launchers that I wonder if I'll find myself stealing it and making her use my Sage Flight instead lol.

Bill - good point about the long rod -> short rod thing - she doesn't have the greatest spatial awareness of where the other end of her 5 foot spincast rod is already :)

[Greg McWilliams]

Jonathan, Be sure to give us an up date on the rod!!!!!!!

[Leo Nguyen]

Yep, keep us updated on the rod and your daughter's fly session. I wonder if she lands you as her first catch of the day *LOL* After playing with the Shakespeare Wonderod, I'll be getting that one for my father-in-laws and 13 years old son as intro to fly rodding. They still scare the crap out of me with the spinning gears close quarter. Fly rodding..I may have to reevaluate my insanity.

[jim cosgrove]

can't think of a better choice.my bug launching improved 100% when i got a tfo.i prefer a shorter rod so did lee wulff

[Bill Purmort]

Jim,
Once she gains some confidence with catching fish with that rod and your encouragement that things are going her way...the spacial and ownetship of the rod will change dramatically...suddenly it will be "her" rod and no one will be alllowed to treat it like she will...even the "old man". And to be honest...that is the lesson you are venturing into..she's responsible, she's in control, she can make it happen! You are a great Dad for making the investment in her! It is going to pay you back tenfold!