Jason DeBacker
Forum Replies Created
-
Posts
-
Haven’t used it, but the new Canon G1X looks pretty sweet. Had a G9 that was great (just broke the motor that extends the lens). Compared to the old G-series cameras, this thing has a sensor over 6 times the size. It’s pricey for a non-dslr ($800) and you can’t fit it in a pocket like the s100, but it may be worth a look.
Jason
Plenty of good opinions here, but let me throw in my 2 cents…
I second the suggestion of a slower action rod. Fast action rods are for casting, not fishing. I built a 9′ 3wt on a GLX blank years ago. Great casting rod- light in the hand and can throw the whole line. No problem in the wind. But do I fish it? Not in a long time. It’s just no fun once you hook into a fish. Besides being more fun to fish and cast, slower action rods are also better at some of the casts that will dominate on those small streams- bow and arrow casts, roll casts, etc.
For length, I’d go 7.5-8′. You want some length to reach over rocks, etc. – but too long can become a pain to maneuver through tight rhodo thickets.
For material, I’d strongly consider fiberglass. It’s relatively inexpensive, has a great slower to moderate action, very durable, and doesn’t require the care that cane rods do.
Scott makes a rod that fits these criteria, Cabela’s CGR rods in 3 and 4wts are a bit short, but the price is right. See the links at Cameron’s site for more fiberglass makers.
FWIW, I’ve fished an Orvis Superfine 7’11” 1wt in these situations for years. It’s a slow, graphite rod and it just great for this type of fishing. I also use it on bigger water if the wind is not too strong and I’m fishing dries (or at least not heavy/bulky flies). I plan to trade out for a 2-3 weight fiberglass rod in the future (but there are other arrows in the quiver that are more in need of replacement).
Jason
I’m not much of a gear-head, so these will be boring… But I’ve got to second breathable waders- nothing has more improved my comfort on the water.
I’ll also second sit-on-top kayaks and add another for the Clouser minnow (I bet I have 50+ species on that pattern).
Of course I never leave home without some good polarized glasses (preferably polarchromatic Action Optics) and (unless in the salt, boat, or place they are outlawed) felts sole boots.
