Small Creeks are often easier to fish with smaller fly rods. Ultralight fly rods can be as short as 6'6". Typically most small creek rods are 7'6" to 8'6". , All models of the Douglas Upstream Fly Rod series are designated to be fished in small creeks and river. The Douglas Upstream comes in lengths varying from 6'6" to 8'8". The shorter the rod the easier to handle in smaller creeks with a lot of cover, while a longer rod allows you to have a little extra reach.