Gearing up for the West Branch

Float fisherman are often caught off guard at the shear size of the water that confronts them on the upper Delaware system. Most pinners that visit the upper Delaware cut their teeth on the tribs of NY, and only make forays to larger waters like the Black, Genny and Oswego.
As a result they assume the worst and arrive with 13ft rods designed for chrome and salmon. Most of these rods are a mis match for the wider, yet slower flows of the west branch.

Flows dictate floats, and floats dictate rods.

Most pinners on the West Branch will use 4-5gram floats, and as such 9-11'6" rods rated for 4-8lbs are best. One of the most enjoyable rods I have fished the West Branch with is St. Croix's WST116LM2. For those unfamiliar it is a 11'6" light action rod rated for 4-10lb line, and is in the Wild River series. Steelheaders often describe this rod as a wet noodle, however for the 2-6lb fish one is likely to encounter this rod is nearly perfect. It allows for a quick load when casting, a fight matched to the size of the fish and most importantly still allows for the fish to be landed quickly. Rods of this description will cover most of the water levels you are likely to encounter on this system. However in high water or fishing the main stem 13ft rods do have their place.
Casting lighter floats because a bit easier with lighter lines and my preference is 8lb siglon, followed by 5x-4x tippets. Fluorocarbon is a must as the water is often clear and the fish fairly educated.

Fishing the West Branch falls someplace between steelheading and local trout fishing. Slight modifications to gear selection and you will find you have a rewarding and fun experience.

Good Luck