J
jrbecca
I travel relatively regularly for work, and always carry a fly rod. I have been known to crawl on hands and knees on front of resorts while wearing a suit and tie to catch a grass carp...got caught stripping down out of my suit once in a customers parking lot so I could hit the beach I. San Diego for some surf perch once as well...hah. I have had zero issues with gear. I try to use a smaller fly rod case (3 or 4 piece fly rod max) and if I carry multiple rods I duct tape them together so it is basically one item. I NEVER check my reels or rods. I carry those on every time. Worst case if my bags get lost, I have a rod and reel with me. I usually keep a small fly box in my carry on as well.
The key is to go light. Avoid waders and boots if you can (I wet wade mostly). It really isn't bad...just don't tryto carry a two piece rod through security...tougher to get those suckers in the overhead bin!
By the way, I have been traveling with my two kids and fly fishing stuff since they were born. The only really tough thing is adding in a car seat. If possible, rent one from a rental car agency at destination. The fly gear is pretty easy to manage but the big car seats are a nightmare. If you need waders, boots, etc. just pack one checked bag with all of that stuff, but carry rods and reels on the plane.
Since I take way to much gear, I have found it easier to Ship it via USPS or UPS. Cheaper in the long run and I do not have to down size.
PVC Tubes, and Tupperware Bins are my best friends..........OH yeah and Duct tape.....
Have Yourself a Blast!!!