Types of Fly Rod Grips
While not all inclusive, this list is intended to inform my customers the different styles of single-hand grips from which they can choose when building a rod. Feel free to use this guide as a template to determine which grip may be right for you and your new rod.
Half Wells
Also frequently called the Western Grip, the Half Wells is one of the most widely popular grips on a fly rods. Noted for its comfort and provides great control and connectivity. Easy to use on longer days, low fatigue
Full Wells
Featured on many warmwater and saltwater rods, normally reserved for six-weight and above.
Cigar
A timeless look and feel. Available in a wide range of lengths, great for rods in the 0wt to 5wt range.
Snubnose
This grip has become synonymous with modern Sage rods. A great combination of a narrow grip with a bit of flare at the tip which helps with control. Great comfort, popular with many anglers. Perfect for a variety of rods, from small trout rods to saltwater.
Torpedo
The torpedo grip is as classic and functional as it looks. Popularized by Everett Garrison on his famous bamboo fly rods. The swelling profile is comfortable on smaller rods.
Bullet Nose
A classic grip which tapers from the big front to the back, featured frequently on vintage bamboo fly rods. Very comfortable, great for downlocking reel seats.
Fenwick / Modified Wells
Typically featured on a fair amount my rods with a downlocking reel seat because it provides a very clean transition.
Ritz
Tapered toward the butt sections with a larger diameter at the top. No wells, just a straight profile. Great for those anglers with larger hands.
Reverse Ritz
Like the name suggests, a Ritz Grip which has been flipped around. Comfortable on smaller rods and the profile provides an interesting look between the handle and the reel seat (normally a downlocking configuration). Also seen on the famous Scott F & G Series rods.
Ventilated
Perfect for glass rods with a very parabolic action, this grip provides the rod flex all the way down into the butt section which allows the angler to better perceive the loading of the rod. More durable than it appears. An interesting conversation starter.
Ultrafine
A finer Half Wells grip. I like to use this on rods without a winding check and then build in a superfine transition. Very connective between the angler and the rod.
Rattan
For a handful of grip shapes, it is possible for me to make a handle with a Rattan wrap. Rattan is a natural fiber, similar to wicker, which provides great grip and durability. Using a thread between the wraps of rattan makes a unique piece that really pops. Available for an extra charge.