We recommend a 7 or 8 wt rod coupled with a quality reel with a smooth drag and plenty of backing, at least 150 yds. Switch or trout spey rods are also an excellent option, especially on windy days.

As with any travel trip, bringing an extra rod and reel is a good idea in the event of an accident. Equipment is available at the lodge at no charge should you need it.

A floating line is all that is required, but you might consider having some sinking leaders (such as the RIO Versileaders ). Long casts are often not necessary, but the longer, the better. Lines such as RIO’s InTouchOutbound Short perform well, especially in the wind. There is limited opportunity to fish Booby or FABs on a full sink due to the rocky nature of Stroble Lake. However, quality fish have been caught on these, so you might want to bring a full-sink, InTouch type VI or VII line if you want to try these flies.

You should have a half dozen leaders between 9-15 ft. Leaders designed for salmon and steelhead are the best bet. RIO Bonefish or PowerFlex Plus leaders are excellent choices as they turn over well when the wind is up. Make sure you have a good supply of quality tippet. RIO’s Fluroflex Plus works best for subsurface presentations use Powerflex Plus for dry flies. The minimum breaking strength is 12 pounds. 15 or 18 pounds is better. RIO Versileaders are also worthwhile, easy to pack, addition to your kit bag.

Your standard stillwater flies, including Balanced Leeches, Wooly Buggers,  Pheasant Tail Nymphs , Copper Johns, scuds and  Prince Nymphs work well.  Dry flies such as the Morrish Mouse and Chubby Chornobyl are also recommended. Stout hooks are required. Strobel Lake is not a place for light-wire dry fly hooks.

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