8 wt rod advice?
- This topic has 19 replies, 15 voices, and was last updated Oct 24, 2008 at 4:40 pm by
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I’m in the research phase of my next fly rod purchase. I currently own a Scott A2, 9’ 5wt 4pc that I use for trout and panfish. Within the next year, I’m making plans for a canoe trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area and plan to target walleye, pike, and smallmouth on the fly in the lakes. Obviously, my existing rod will not cut the mustard up north. I’d also like a rod to use for largemouth and carp in lakes here in Kansas. So, I’m thinking that a 9’ 8wt 4 pc would be a good choice (let me know if you don’t agree).
What’s a more difficult decision for me is to purchase a mid-priced rod (e.g. another A2 currently on sale) or spend 2 to 3 times as much for a high end rod (e.g. S4, z-axis, etc). Alternatively, is there a good compromise of something in between the A2 (medium-fast action) type of rod and the fast action expensive rods (S4, z-axis)? I’ve casted the z-axis and obviously love the fast action but have never been on the water with an 8 wt rod.
So in summary, my questions are:
1) Is the extra money worth a fast action in an 8 wt rod for pike fishing?
2) Is there a nice compromise that is faster than the A2 but cheaper than the high end rods?When you head up to the BWCA, wave as you pass through the dying little mining town of Eveleth (Highway 53 goes right through it, about 60 miles north of Duluth) – that’s where I grew up.
Anyway, your question is kinda timely. I’m looking at buying a second 8wt for boat/spouse use on Stripers and saltwater. I also have a couple friends looking for a bargain 8wt. I bought my first 8wt, a Sage Xi2 custom made by a friend, last year about this time. I’m no expert.
My brother bought the TFO TICR-X, and he likes it quite a bit. So that’s how I was leaning. Then I read this:
Yelloswtone Angler 8wt shootout
I think based on this list, the Redington CPS warrants a look for you. That’s what I’m looking at now for a second rod.
Thanks all – I really appreciate the advice and especially the link to the 8 wt shootout (Thanks Abe). I wonder if Redington’s CPX will be as highly rated as its predecessor (the CPS)? It also looks like the St Croix Legend Elite may be a good mid priced rod that performs well.
If you’re looking for something fast, I’d look at the St. Croix Legend, or the Cabela’s FT+. (Some people feel they’re basically the same rod.) If you want something a little slower, check out the St. Croix Avid.
But for salt, I too would go with a fast rod.
Randy
I tried the new 9′ #8 Sage TCX today (along with the 5) and it was awesome !
The new model has a more forgiving nature, but all the brutality of the TCR – it also tracks better than any rod I’ve ever cast and lays out lovely straight lines with no problem.
I can’t comment on the Boundry waters because the last time I fished there was the early 70’s and fly fishing hadn’t been invented in the midwest yet.
www.dsaphoto.com
A picture is thousand words that takes less than a second while a thousand words is a picture that takes a month.
There was a magazine shootout of a bunch of sub $500 (Australian dollars) 8 weight rods recently and the new Sage FLight scooped the pool. I fished with it last week and its a bloody good rod, new fittings etc. a great set-up with all the warranties.
Morsie
Sounds like there are lots of great rods in the 8 wt size… thanks to those making recommendations. I can tell this is going to be a tough decision and a tough sell to the wife… $$$ 😮
Take a look at the Scott X2S908/4 – one of my all time favorite #8’s. You might also pick up an E2908/4 on sale – both are good rods that will cut the mustard in fresh or salt water, and you’re supporting an American manufacturer.
Best Regards,
Beechy
I’m gonna put my hand up for the TFO Lefty Kreh Signature, she’s a fine rod and can throw a nicer loop than many of the other
I fish an orvis 10′ 6wt from my canoe. It is a medium to fast action rod and not too heavy to tire me out from casting to the banks all day in our local lake.
I like the extra leverage of having a longer rod. Landing fish is not much more difficult than with a 9′ rod.
I overline the reel with 7wt line to cast into wind and throw bigger flies.
I’ve always wanted to fish the boundry waters, its on my list of destinations.
I may be able to help.I have an Orvis silver label(discontinued few years back)968-4 (mid flex)that has been used twice.Bought it back when they changed the model because it was a good deal.I have so many rods I can’t use them.It;s a real nice rod in new condition and and if your interested I’d sell it for 150.00 plus whatever shipping is.Better someone use it than sit
Thanks again for the suggestions and links… Much appreciated.
Waterworker – I’m leaning more towards a faster rod but thanks for the offer.
Brian,
The Free State Fly Fishers in Lawrence will be having a fall picnic this Sunday at Clinton Lake, and we’ll be there with the TFO arsenal if you can make it there and want to toss some 8’s.
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