Field Merit
ProfilesGear
Categories
HuntingFly FishingUltrarunningCyclingClimbingBackcountry Skiing
Log inSign up

Field Merit

The gear behind the best in the field.

Browse

ProfilesGearCategories

Account

Log inSign upWishlist
AboutNo Ads PledgePrivacy PolicyTerms of ServiceFeedbackContact

This site contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you purchase through links on this site, at no extra cost to you. Learn more in our Terms of Service.

© 2026 Field Merit Co.

Profiles

Lefty Kreh

Angler
American·b. 1925
Known for:
Regarded as the greatest fly caster who ever lived. Author of over 20 books. Taught casting clinics worldwide for more than 50 years. Helped design the Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO) signature rod series.

Lefty Kreh grew up fishing for panfish in Frederick, Maryland, and went on to become the most influential figure in American fly fishing. He served in World War II, worked as an outdoor writer and photographer, and spent decades traveling the world as a casting instructor, fishing in saltwater and freshwater on six continents. His casting mechanics, particularly his emphasis on eliminating wrist break and using haul technique, fundamentally changed how the sport is taught. Kreh authored books including "Casting with Lefty Kreh" and "Fly Fishing in Salt Water," both considered essential reading. He helped design the TFO Lefty Kreh Signature rod series, which brought quality fly rods to a lower price point and expanded access to the sport. Kreh continued teaching and fishing into his 90s before passing in 2018 at the age of 93.

Lefty Kreh's Gear List(2)

Lefty Kreh Signature Series II 9' 5wt

TFO

Product description

Two-piece, medium-fast action graphite rod with a progressive taper that loads quickly at short range and carries reserves for distance. Features AA-grade cork half-wells grip, oversized stripping guides, and matte-black aluminum double uplocking reel seat. Backed by TFO's lifetime warranty and covers the full range of trout techniques.

Connection note

Signature rod, still in production
Source: Website ↗
Lefty Kreh Signature Series II 9' 8wt

TFO

Product description

Two-piece medium-fast action graphite rod with a fighting butt and full-wells grip, the heavier-water variant of the Signature II series. The progressive taper provides fast loading and reserve power suited for larger trout, bass, and inshore saltwater species. Carries TFO's lifetime warranty.

Connection note

Saltwater signature rod
Source: Website ↗

Know something Lefty Kreh uses that's not listed?

Log in to submit

Last updated March 12, 2026