HAND MADE TROUT／SALMON／SEA TROUT FLY FISHING PRIEST MADE FROM OLD FISHING RODS

**How to Choose a Hand Made Trout/Salmon/Sea Trout Fly Fishing Priest Made from Old Fishing Rods**

Fly fishing is an art that combines skill, patience, and the right equipment. Among the essential tools for any serious angler is the **fly fishing priest**—a traditional yet often overlooked instrument used to humanely dispatch caught fish. While modern priests are widely available, a **handmade priest crafted from old fishing rods** offers a unique blend of sustainability, craftsmanship, and sentimental value. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the perfect handmade trout, salmon, or sea trout fly fishing priest made from recycled rods.

### **1. The Significance of a Handmade Priest**
A **fly fishing priest** (also called a “fish billy”) is a small, weighted club designed to quickly and ethically euthanize fish. Handmade versions, especially those made from **repurposed fishing rods**, carry a special appeal:
– **Eco-Friendly**: Using old rods reduces waste and honors the legacy of past fishing adventures.
– **Custom Craftsmanship**: Each piece is unique, often featuring intricate detailing and personal touches.
– **Superior Balance & Weight**: A well-made priest ensures a swift, effective strike without unnecessary suffering for the fish.

### **2. Key Features to Consider**
When selecting a handmade priest, pay attention to the following:

#### **A. Material & Construction**
– **Rod Blank Quality**: The best priests are made from high-quality **graphite or fiberglass rod blanks**, ensuring durability.
– **Handle Design**: Look for ergonomic shaping, often wrapped with **cork or custom thread** for a secure grip.
– **Weight Distribution**: A slightly weighted head (often reinforced with brass or lead) ensures a clean, humane strike.

#### **B. Aesthetic & Personalization**
Many artisans engrave or inlay details such as:
– **Fish species motifs** (trout, salmon, etc.)
– **Custom text** (e.g., initials, dates, or a favorite fishing quote)
– **Decorative wraps** mimicking classic fly rod designs

#### **C. Size & Purpose**
– **Trout Priests**: Typically lighter (6-8 inches) for smaller fish.
– **Salmon/Sea Trout Priests**: Heavier and longer (10-12 inches) for larger, stronger fish.

### **3. Why Choose a Handmade Priest Over Mass-Produced Models?**
– **Uniqueness**: No two handmade priests are alike—each tells a story.
– **Ethical & Sustainable**: Repurposing old rods reduces environmental impact.
– **Performance**: Custom weighting and balance improve effectiveness.

### **4. Where to Find Quality Handmade Priests**
Seek out **specialty fly fishing artisans** or brands like **KyleBooker**, which prioritize craftsmanship and sustainability. Many makers offer bespoke orders, allowing you to choose materials, engravings, and dimensions.

### **Conclusion**
A **handmade fly fishing priest crafted from old rods** is more than just a tool—it’s a tribute to tradition, sustainability, and the art of angling. Whether you target trout, salmon, or sea trout, selecting the right priest ensures both **humane fish handling** and a connection to fishing heritage.

For premium handcrafted options, explore **KyleBooker’s collection**—where every priest is built with the passion of a true angler.

**Tight lines and responsible fishing!** 🎣