Did you get the 9'2" 4wt version of the UL LL? I have found that rod to be a most excellent long range dry rod. I like that you can dig into it and also fish it delicately. I very stupidly traded mine, for an H3 at that (even worse). Now that I have an Asquith 4wt in the quiver I don't feel the need to get one of these again but would like to have mine back (the friend I traded it to is quite hesitant to let go of it and he hasn't even fished it yet!) just to look at its gorgeous cosmetics and to directly compare it to the Asquith (in my head I think they tie).
I purchased the 9’ 4wt Ultralite, not the LL version.
I already have a Rio Gold 5wt line that I’m going to try with the rod when I fish it. I will see how that goes before checking out the Orvis line.
As always, test out the line you already have and see how you like it. I always try lines on rods when lawn casting to get an idea of what I want for the rod. I'd imagine your rod may have a bit more power than the LL versions. I have found, across all of the Hardy rods I've owned is that they seem to like a trout taper line. More aggressive shooting heads seem to bog them down. Gold is a pretty standard line so it should work well (in theory) methinks. Also your casting stroke may have a preference for a certain fly line.
If money's no object, visit a tackle shop and try on a few options. Remember that it's somewhat rude to do this if you leave the shop and buy online. You can also try this question on the swap forum.
If the shop won’t match the online price then tough cookies. I can’t think of a single “local fly shop” in eastern or central PA that is hurting financially.
As a brutally frugal person, I get it. I haven't even been in the same room as a Hardy rod or reel.
I'd go light, probably around a 3.5-4.0 oz., reel, whatever kind of reel style suits your needs/fancy.
