The Yellow Dog 5-Weight Fly Rod Invitational

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Welcome to Yellow Dog’s 5-Weight Fly Rod Invitational, presented in partnership with the Anglers Academy — a detailed, performance-driven evaluation and one of the most thorough fly rod reviews ever assembled. With near every major manufacturer participating in this event, we set out to create something that was considerably more detailed and precise than traditional rod reviews that have - in the past - simply ranked rods based on pure distance and the opinions or preferences of one or two evaluators.

One key element that makes this evaluation and invitational so unique is that instead of designating or selecting a single “best rod,” we instead designed a multi-tiered process that mirrors how real anglers fish — taking into account and testing all rods based on a variety of techniques, distances, and conditions. We worked with independent and elite casters, structured our testing around realistic fishing scenarios, and let the rods speak for themselves through data-driven scoring. Our goal wasn’t to create hype or crown a single overall winner, but rather to deliver clarity and real-world insight to each rod model that was part of this study. Think of this process as less of a “popularity” contest and more of a professional skills assessment for gear that anglers rely on every day. From dry flies to streamers to nymphs, we built each course and tested each rod with intent, mimicking the casts and conditions that anglers actually encounter on the water. 

Another key testing factor is that we also asked each rod manufacturer how their individual rods should be evaluated, and we used their input to shape the testing. That means the results you see reflect both the vision of the designer and the realities of performance.

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers
About the Casters
The Deflection Charts
The Overall Rod Rankings
Echo Fly Rods
G. Loomis Fly Rods
Hardy Fly Rods
Orvis Fly Rods
Redington Fly Rods
Sage Fly Rods
Scott Fly Rods
Thomas & Thomas Fly Rods
Winston Fly Rods
Fly Rod Warranty Information

How We Hope You Will Use This Information

If there’s one thing everyone involved in this Invitational agreed on, it’s this: there is no such thing as a “perfect” fly rod or a one-size-fits-all “top” rod that works for everyone. We cannot emphasize this enough. Even among our three elite casters, personal favorites varied across the streamer, dry fly, and nymph courses. That said, the highest- and lowest-scoring rods consistently aligned across all three casters — a strong indication of objective performance. Our hope is that you’ll use this information to: (a) honestly assess the kind of fishing you do, (b) explore the rods that performed well in those specific categories, and (c) go cast them yourself before deciding. 

It should be noted that this was a pure, performance-based fly rod evaluation. Each rod model was tested according to the manufacturer's intended design and specific line recommendations. Cosmetics and components were not factored in, so depending on how important the “look” of a rod is, then you might also factor in overall aesthetics along with warranty policies or where a rod is made. And when it comes time to purchase, we hope you’ll choose Yellow Dog. (We make it a priority to give back with every trip booked and product sold. To date, the Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation (YDCCF) has granted over $2 million to vital fisheries and communities around the globe. That impact is only possible thanks to the trust and support of anglers like you.)

Questions and Answers About the Yellow Dog 5-Weight Fly Rod Invitational

Why did we structure the Invitational the way we did? Why choose elite casters over everyday anglers? And how were the courses and evaluation processes created? We break down the rationale behind our approach and answer these questions (and more) in the Q&A below.

1. Why Move Away from Traditional Fly Rod Rankings?
   You may be asking, why didn’t we follow along with other prior reviews and simply declare a “best fly rod”? Why are we making this more complicated? Well … think about golf clubs, surfboards, mountain bikes, or skis. There’s no single driver, board, bike, or pair of skis that’s perfect for every condition and every type of user — and fly rods are no different. Despite conventional wisdom and past “review” results, there will never be a one-size-fits-all rod that dominates in every category. It simply doesn’t exist. Yes, some rods perform extremely well in specific categories — dry flies, nymphs, or streamers — but fly fishing isn’t a uniform experience. What works best depends entirely on how, where, and what you fish. If you’re fishing everything from dries to streamers in a variety of waters and distances, the top-ranked rods across all categories are a great place to start.
   
   But let’s say you mostly fish tight, rhododendron-lined trout streams in the Smoky Mountains, where short casts and roll casts with streamers or nymphs are the norm. You’re going to want a rod that excels in short-distance performance — and dry fly distance casting scores may not be as important to you for the type of fishing you tend to focus on.
   
   Or maybe you're targeting rising trout on stillwater lakes in the Rockies: something that requires long, accurate dry fly presentations. In that case, the top dry fly rods that can truly perform at 40–50 feet absolutely come into play.
   
   Fishing spring creeks in Argentina with wind ripping through the valley? You’ll need a rod that performs under pressure at short-to-mid ranges and in the wind.
   
   The idea of a single “best fly rod” is as absurd as choosing one “best golf club” for every conceivable shot. It all comes down to what kind of fishing you do, where you do it, and how honest you are about the situations you're casting into. From there, the data helps guide your decisions.
   
   Let’s be clear: There is no “best fly rod.” There are only the right tools for the job.

2. Why Choose Elite Casters Versus Everyday Anglers?
   While most rods are purchased and used by “regular” anglers, we evaluated these rods with a proven team of elite casters because experience matters — just like in surfing, skiing, or golf. Elite-level athletes and technicians know how to read the subtle differences in gear. They understand the mechanics and how design translates to performance.
   
   You wouldn’t ask a high school basketball player to compare and evaluate sneakers and expect the same insight you’d get from Michael Jordan. And if MJ told you a pair of shoes was the best he’d worn, you’d listen. Why? Because he knows — he’s been there.
   
   Our three casters are the fly fishing equivalent of that. They’re widely respected, with significant wins in competitive fly casting, and they’ve trained other elite-level casters as well.
   
   We also made sure they had zero affiliations or sponsorships from rod manufacturers, ensuring their opinions were based solely on performance — not bias. Furthermore, they are not employees of Yellow Dog, nor are they paid ambassadors for Yellow Dog. They are independent in every way.
   
   If you're serious about becoming a highly competent fly caster, consider attending John Hudgens’ Anglers Academy — where all three of our Invitational casters serve as coaches. The Academy offers a one-of-a-kind, hands-on program designed specifically for intermediate and advanced anglers looking to elevate their skills through focused, personalized instruction.

3. Why Did We Design Our Own Unique Testing Courses?
   Many rod shootouts in the past have leaned heavily into aesthetics or vague impressions. We wanted something better. We wanted a truly performance-based evaluation.
   
   Most anglers use a 9-foot, 5-weight rod across three main types of fishing: streamer, dry fly, and nymphing. That covers the overwhelming majority of fishing scenarios. So we built three testing courses to reflect exactly that.

Streamer Course:

While dedicated streamer anglers may reach for a 6 or 7-weight, a 9’ 5-weight is often what’s in your hand while your enjoying your day on the water. We designed this course with real-world streamer casting in mind — complete with water-soaked, size 4 Zonker patterns to simulate wet streamers, and traditional streamer casting techniques that included a reach cast and a Belgian cast to match how anglers actually fish. We paired each streamer rod with a 7.5’ 3x leader.

Dry Fly Course:

Casters used 10’ 5x leaders and yarn ‘flies’ treated with Gink for weight simulation. We added a 20’ target to mimic those close-range shots common during hatches or tricky microcurrent situations. Casters tested performance at 20’, 30’, 40’, and 50’, both with and without wind — including applicable dry fly casts such as the pile, reach, and false cast.

Nymph Course:

This course couldn’t be accurately mimicked in a gym. So we set up the nymphing course on the Gallatin River for real on-the-water testing. Casters used a standard two-fly setup, which consisted of a size 8 Girdle Bug and a size 16 beadhead pheasant tail and a strike indicator. Rods were evaluated on roll casting, overhead casting, and mending at 20’, 30’, and 40’. This was the only way to simulate true nymphing conditions. Casters used a 9’ 4x leader and a dropper tied 16” from the lead fly.

4. Why Did We Choose 20’-50’ Distances and Not Any Longer?
   When many anglers test a rod at a fly shop, they immediately see how far they can cast a set-up. Anglers love to cast as far as possible despite the fact that this is a totally unrealistic metric for 95% of trout fishing - especially with a 5 weight rod! Is it fun? Sure. But in all reality, we are generally fishing these 5 weights within 20-50 feet, so a rod’s ability to shoot line and accommodate hero casts can DETRACT from that rod’s ability where it matters most. Secondly, we fully recognize any rod can cast 20, 30, 40, or 50 feet – but the Invitational’s parameters were intentionally and thoughtfully designed to take a closer look at the nuances of a rod’s performance for the distances anglers fish. Even our casters admitted they're not fans of walking into a fly shop just to test a rod at 20 feet. It’s not the most exciting thing. Casting farther is way more fun, and we get it. But ... we still put in the work and evaluated those 20-foot casts so you wouldn’t have to.
   

5. How Were These Rods Selected?
   Yellow Dog Flyfishing carries a wide array of fly rods from top manufacturers. Every single brand we represent chose to participate — including Sage, Orvis, Scott, Winston, Hardy, Redington, Thomas & Thomas, G. Loomis, and Echo. This was one of the most diverse rod lineups featured in a performance-based review in angling history, and we’re incredibly grateful for their participation.

Note: One brand we weren’t able to include at the time was Burkheimer — though all casters were eager to test it. We’re now proud to say Yellow Dog is an official Burkheimer dealer.

6. Why Not Test Every Rod in Every Category?
   Because we respected the intent of the rod designers. We asked each manufacturer to tell us how they wanted their rod evaluated: as a dry fly tool, a streamer stick, or an all-arounder. That input, combined with the rod’s own design notes, shaped how it was tested.
   

7. How Did We Minimize Subjectivity?
   We took every step to eliminate bias, bringing in elite casters with no brand affiliations and no direct Yellow Dog connection or employment.
   
   

• • We let the casters design each course alongside Yellow Dog’s marketing and strategy teams.
    
    

  • We allowed manufacturers to select the applicable fly lines for each rod model. We also asked the rod designers to provide insight on each rod’s design intent.
    
    

  • Casters were not allowed to discuss or share their opinions until after all scoring was complete. This format ensured that scoring was based on individual performance — not groupthink or preferences.
    
    

8. How Was the Scoring System Set Up and Tallied?
   Each drill was scored from 1–5 in half-point intervals:
   

• • 
1 – Very Poor

  • 2 – Functional but Needs Improvement

  • 3 – Performs Well and/or Meets Manufacturer’s Goal

  • 4 – Exceptional

  • 5 – Perfection/Can Never be Improved Upon 

When the casters were formulating their scores for each category, they were considering a number of metrics including accuracy, touch, line control, rod flex, swing weight, feel-in-hand, intuitiveness, effort, and simply, the rod’s overall feel-good factor. Was it accurate AND a joy to cast? This helped separate the “good” from the “great.” We implemented half-point intervals to allow for more precise scoring. In some cases, a rod didn’t quite earn a ‘3’ but also didn’t deserve a ‘4’ — it landed somewhere in between. This system made it easier for our casters to evaluate performance with greater accuracy.

9. Why Were There No Perfect Scores?
   Our casters — John Juracek, John Hudgens, and Whitney Gould — all agreed: a score of 5 would imply perfection, leaving no room for improvement. Since even the top performing rods can be refined or improved, a 4 or 4.5 still signals exceptional performance without suggesting a rod has reached its final form.
   

10. Why We Didn’t Score Rods Based On Aesthetics?
    From the outset, we agreed that minimizing subjectivity was essential to ensure a fair and credible evaluation. While other shootout or rod review models have included points or consideration for aesthetics, we deliberately chose not to incorporate cosmetic scoring. Our casters felt that judging a rod based on appearance would be highly subjective — what one person sees as sleek or beautiful, another might not care for at all. A green or matte black finish may appeal to some, but that has no bearing on how the rod actually performs.
    

11. Is This the First Rod Comparison Study That Has Been Conducted in the Industry?
    Not at all. There have been a number of retailers and media entities that have done rod comparisons and reviews in the past. One of the most well-known and followed has been an annual review from George Anderson’s Yellowstone Angler in Livingston, Montana. They should be credited with being at the forefront of crafting these in-depth and superior reviews.

About the Casters

JOHN JURACEK
John lives in West Yellowstone, Montana and was a partner in Blue Ribbon Flies for over twenty years. He has a degree in Fisheries Biology from the University of Wyoming, and he worked in that field for several years. Over the years, John has published many articles related to fishing and his photographs are widely used in calendars, websites and publications. John is also a writer and authored his own book, Yellowstone: Photographs of an Angling Landscape, and co-authored three books (with Craig Mathews): Fly Patterns of Yellowstone, Volume One, Fishing Yellowstone Hatches and Fly Patterns of Yellowstone, Volume Two. John has been teaching fly casting for over 40 years, both privately and at well known fishing schools. He has coached numerous casting world record holders and routinely coaches professionals and some of the sport’s most successful tournament anglers.

JOHN HUDGENS
John began his career in the fly fishing industry at the age of 16 when he was hired by Bob Jacklin to work at Jacklin’s Fly Shop in West Yellowstone, Montana. He has guided fishing in Montana, Idaho and Yellowstone National Park since 1998. John has a B.S. in Wildlife Biology from the University of Montana and worked for Idaho Fish and Game as a junior fisheries biologist after graduating. John is one of the most well-known and respected guides on the Henry’s Fork River in Idaho, having spent over twenty years guiding for both Henry’s Fork Anglers and TroutHunter. He guided fishing in Chile for five seasons and previously worked for Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures as the South American Program Director for over 7 years. John started The Anglers Academy because he wanted to create an opportunity for others to experience the privilege of learning from some of the most famed personalities of fly fishing in a setting that would instill a sense of respect for the rich traditions that underpin the sport while also cultivating a deeper understanding of all the other elements of fly fishing that make it such a special pursuit. 

WHITNEY GOULD
Whitney Gould is a distinguished figure in the fly fishing community, celebrated for her exceptional skills as a fly caster, guide, and educator. She is a seven-time Spey-O-Rama World Casting Champion and an FFI Certified Casting Instructor, renowned for her expertise in both single-handed and two-handed casting techniques. Whitney currently guides on Montana’s Missouri River with HeadHunters Fly Shop and offers virtual casting instruction through her platform, Gould Standard Fly Casting. Her journey into fly fishing began during her childhood summers in northern Minnesota, where she developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors. This passion led her to pursue a degree in Painting from Temple University’s Tyler School of Art and a Master’s in Landscape Architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design. Combining her artistic sensibility with her love for nature, Whitney found a unique path in the fly fishing world. Whitney's guiding career commenced in Alaska and expanded to include Oregon, California, and Montana. Her dedication to the sport and commitment to teaching have made her a respected mentor in the fly fishing community.

The Deflection Charts

The Overall Rod Rankings

To interpret the fly rod rankings, review each column—Streamer, Dry Fly, Nymph, and Total—and find the corresponding scores from 1 (top-ranked) to 10. Note that dry fly-specific rods were not tested in the streamer or nymph courses, which is why those categories are left blank for those models. Likewise, rods built for “big water” streamer or nymph work—such as the Hardy Ultralite X and Sage Igniter—were not evaluated in the dry fly course. The “Total” column on the far right reflects the combined, all-around score for rods that manufacturers identified as versatile, do-it-all models.

Before we dive in, we want to draw close attention to the razor-thin margins separating the scores. In some instances, half a point meant the difference between a top 3, top 5, or top 10 finish; this is especially true in the nymphing category. Instead of focusing on the black-and-white scores, consider the type of fishing you do most often, the distances you fish at, and the elements you want out of a rod, and use the Invitational as a RESOURCE for better informing you as an individual angler in your search for the ideal 5-weight.

FAVORITE RODS BY CASTER

(ALL RODS INCLUDED IN THE INVITATIONAL ARE LISTED BELOW IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER OF ROD MANUFACTURER)

Echo Fly Rods

ECHO Carbon XL 9' 5 Weight | $229.99 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
A medium-fast action rod that is more user friendly. Punch above its weight class for a trout rod. A true all-purpose fly rod geared toward anglers of all experience levels

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA MPX (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 96/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 111.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 68.5/105

 

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Difficult to cast from 40’-50’, but excelled at 30’-40’ distance. 

• Rod loaded well at 30-40’ Did fine at 50’ with weight. Had enough bend to feel the rod, although it could be smoother. There’s lots of vibration, but the more I used the rod the better it performed.

• Met the design parameters. Pretty smooth, even bend. Quite pleasant to cast considering it was a streamer. Has a nice grip, taper, and diameter.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Need to add more ‘umph’ at 50’. Feels heavy and grip is big, but overall a good medium/fast rod.

• Heavy in hand. Overall, the rod is fine. But does not excel using long leaders at any distance. Lots of work to load and no help from the rod.

• Clubby in close. Bend is not smooth at 30’-50’. Tip heavy feeling, med/fast - not really, more fast. Action not unified. Hard to control at distance. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Water load helped the rod. Great for big sloppy casts. Pick up slow getting weight going. 

• Great casting overhead at 30’. Can’t find any flaws, surprisingly easy to cast. Does dink on hinge. Roll casts at all distances was good. Working a little hard on 40’ roll, but still did the job.

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
For anglers seeking a dependable, reasonably priced setup for streamer and nymph fishing in the 20’–40’ range, this rod is a solid choice. It ranked 8th in the streamer course and 7th in the nymph course, though it did not crack the top 10 in the dry fly category. If your focus is on lakes or larger rivers where casts of 50’ or more are common, there are stronger performers to consider. 

ECHO Trout X 9' 5 Weight | $399.99 | All-Around Rod

 

 

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Top-tier, premium rod that would compete with anything on the market. Faster fly rod that is a quality all-around fly rod geared toward more advanced casters.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA MPX (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 101/150

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 134.5/195 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 71.5/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• I like the feel. It is light, good grip size, and has a crisp stop. Easy to adjust from 50’ back down to 30’.

• Light in hand. I feel a ‘brick at the end of the line.’ Light, smooth, but stiff. It has a soft tip, but stiff throughout. Could get into trouble with tailing loops if not careful. 

• Smooth, pleasant at 30’ and 40’. Too tippy at 50’. Light in hand (more than Carbon XL). It had a good grip, diameter, and taper. Pretty smooth overall and decent communication. Like always, I wish the butt of the rod bent more.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Fast! Good for a fast action rod. All distances were good. Lots of line speed. Easy to be accurate.  I did get a few ticks, which leads me to believe, could throw tailing loops. 

• Tippy through range. A bit stiff, but will make the casts. Pleasant?? Not really. Better in wind since it can be sped up easily. Stroke gets tiring on account of stiffness.

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Enough flex in the tip for effective mending. Performed above average. Smooth overhead. Made my job pretty easy.

• A little tippy, more feedback lower down in the butt of the rod would be nice. It does get the job done and roll casts well. Not bad!

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Echo Trout X delivers impressive performance for the price. It ranked 6th in the streamer course, 9th in the dry fly course, 5th in the nymph course, and placed 5th overall in all-around scoring. For anglers seeking a light, fast-action rod that performs well across a range of trout applications, it’s a strong contender. While several casters noted a slightly “tippy” feel—especially at longer distances—the softer tip proved helpful when mending during the nymph course.

G. Loomis Fly Rods

G. Loomis Asquith 9' 5 Weight | $1,235.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
General purpose 5wt that leans more towards precision. Able to throw indicator streamer rigs as long as they are within 5wt reason. The rod stands out in being able to hit targets accurately in various conditions.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold (True to Weight)

• Scientific Anglers Amplitude Trout (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 87.5/150

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 123.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 61/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Most accurate if casting off the tip of the fly rod, but wish the rod tip had more power. I do like the tempo. 

• This rod is decently smooth. Nice grip, weight, and feel, but didn’t load enough for me. The sweet spot for this rod is 30’-40’ with weight.

• Too stiff in close. There is a lack of feel. Better at distance/wind and with a faster stroke. Grip contour is severe/diameter too large in front half. Overall the action is slightly disjointed. The bend overall is acceptable, just stiff. 

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• I feel like it does what the description from the manufacturer says it does. It is lightweight and fast.

• Smooth, light in hand. Fine short, but not great. Better longer. Excels at longer distances. 

• Tippy throughout range and reasonably smooth, but uneven bend. Not as pleasant as it could be. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Don’t see rod helping with roll cast. The bend doesn’t help. Bend for forward cast, you really have to punch it. 

• Hungry on overhead. Stiff throughout, the only thing working for you is the tip. The roll cast was fine, but I have to work harder than I’d like. Needs a bit more feel on the mend. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The G. Loomis Asquith 5-weight is a fast, lightweight rod that shines at longer distances, especially in wind or when using a quicker casting stroke. It’s most accurate when casting off the tip and delivers solid performance in the 30’–40’ range with weight. That said, the action can feel stiff and slightly disjointed, particularly in close where the rod lacks feel and finesse. While the grip, weight, and overall build quality are strong, the rod demands more effort than some would prefer for roll casts and mending. A high-end tool for experienced casters who favor distance over delicacy.

G. Loomis NRX+ 9' 5 Weight | $915.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
General purpose 5wt for those who like the feel of a quicker rod or like to push their 5wts with heavier rigs.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA MPX (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 83/150

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 99.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE TOTAL SCORE 58/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Not sure why, but this is a hard fly rod for me to gauge. It feels a bit sluggish and somewhat longer than nine feet. There is a lack of feel, but I agree it does what the manufacturer description says it does.

• Very stiff and fast. Doesn’t feel good too short, better longer with power. They did achieve what the rod designer set out to do. Easy to be accurate long. Lacks touch and not as fun to cast.

• Reel seat way too long, grip is okay, and decent backstop. Very stiff, total lack of communication at all distances. Maybe extremely long casts? Felt more like a 7 or 8 weight

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Fast and feels like a broomstick.

• The strength of this rod is distance of 50’. Does not load short though paired with a half-size heavy line. Perhaps a 6 weight line would be better?

• Very stiff and poor communication. Easy accuracy, but feel like I have to force bend into the rod. I do not feel like this is a ‘true’ 5 weight. The bend of the rod is confined to the top 12”. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• There’s no bend and not smooth at all. A little better with some weight.

• Excels at 40’ very little sensitivity with subtle flicks. Not as pleasant at 30’.

• Stiff, not much response/feedback. Not very comfortable.

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The G. Loomis NRX+ 5-weight is a powerful, fast-action rod built for distance and line speed, but it sacrifices feel and finesse in the process. It excels when casting long with weight—especially in the 40’–50’ range—but struggles with short-range accuracy, roll casts, and subtle presentations. Many casters noted that it feels more like a 6- or even 7-weight, with minimal bend confined to the tip and a generally stiff, unresponsive action across all courses. While it may suit anglers seeking maximum power and aggressive casting strokes, it lacks the touch and versatility expected from a true 5-weight.

G. Loomis NRX+ LP 9' 5 Weight | $915.00 | Dry Fly Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Delicate presentation rod with enough power in the butt section to maintain accuracy as weather conditions or fly sizes change.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold (True to Weight)

• Scientific Anglers Amplitude Trout (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 117/195

Caster Notes:

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• 3” tip too soft and not helping with overall bend

• This rod is nice out to 40’-50’. Very capable of longer casts. This rod did not excel in this category. 

• The grip is OK. Stiff, but pretty smooth and easy to be accurate. Easy to cast in the wind. Tippy at 50’. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The G. Loomis NRX+ LP 5-weight offers solid performance at mid to longer distances, particularly between 40’–50’, with easy accuracy and decent wind-handling. While generally smooth and capable, the overly soft 3” tip doesn’t contribute meaningfully to the rod’s overall bend, leaving it feeling slightly unbalanced. The action is tippy at distance, and while the rod is easy to cast, it didn’t stand out in the dry fly category. A serviceable option for those seeking a lighter presentation rod with some range—but it may leave more advanced casters wanting a bit more connection and refinement.

G. Loomis IMX-PRO V2 9' 5 Weight | $595.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
General purpose 5wt, faster action rod with a slightly softer feel for easier loading when compared to the NRX+.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA MPX (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 82/150

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 117.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 66/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• I’d like it better in a shorter rod length. It does feel a bit tip heavy and somewhat sluggish. 

• I can’t feel the rod at most distances. I can’t over power the rod if needed. It has a soft tip and is stiff throughout. I feel the fly tug at the end of the cast. The transfer of energy is below average. Can’t use power in the wind.

• Grip a bit long, same for reel seat. Very fast, tippy, and unpleasant. Even at distance, the rod butt wouldn’t bend. The tip was hard to control at distance. It’s exactly as the deflection chart shows.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Swing weight feels OK. The butt of the rod is heavy with little feel on the tip of the rod. This rod is super fast, but gets the job done.

• Fast and stiff. Can throw long well, but lacks any communication to the angler at 20’-30’. Not smooth, but not rough. 

• Very tippy, hard in close, uneven bend. Better long, but uneven. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• A lot of lag on spey/hinge. Low weight on tip, but does cast fine.

• Better on nymph course. Nice in hand and smooth. Efficient power, nice handle, feels good at long casts. 

• Rod is uneven and still a little tippy. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The G. Loomis IMX-PRO V2 5-weight is a fast, stiff rod that performs best at longer distances but lacks finesse and feel across most ranges. With a soft tip and a stiff, unyielding butt section, the rod struggles with energy transfer and responsiveness—especially in close or when trying to apply power in the wind. While it casts fine on the nymph course and feels efficient in hand at distance, the overall action is uneven and tip-heavy, with minimal feedback to the angler. A capable rod for specific scenarios, but less enjoyable or versatile than others in its class.

Hardy Fly Rods

Hardy Marksman 9' 5 Weight | $950.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Marksman was designed as a true 5-weight rod with the versatility to handle most “normal 5-weight” situations. It excels at both short presentations with good feel and feedback, as well as medium to long-range controlled casts.

This rod is particularly useful in variable conditions and when turning over leaders of 14ft+ with authority. It’s also a favorite for fishing from a drift boat when casting dries or lighter indicator rigs.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA Amplitude Smooth Trout (True to Weight)

• For intermediate casters: ½ size heavy lines

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 82.5/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 117/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 65.5/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Feels light but a bit clunky with a heavy fly.

• The rod is stiff with little touch. Hard short, better longer. Very little flex. Soft tip and stiff throughout.

• Grip and reel seat are too long. Stiff and tippy. Best short, unpleasant at 40’ and 50’. Difficult to feel what is happening during stroke.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Light in hand. Fast. Easy to be accurate. Wish it had more feel.

• I can make the shot, but hard on the arm

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Sensitive tip makes it excel at mends.

• Doesn’t communicate too well, not much feedback while casting. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Hardy Marksman 5-weight is a lightweight, fast-action rod that delivers solid accuracy and excels at mending, thanks to its sensitive tip. While it performs reasonably well at short to mid distances, it lacks overall feel and feedback, especially with heavier flies or longer casts. The action is stiff and tippy, with minimal flex and limited communication through the stroke, making it less comfortable and more fatiguing to cast over time. A decent technical tool in specific trout scenarios, like casting heavy nymph rigs on larger freestones or tailwaters.

Hardy Ultralite X 9' 5 Weight | $950.00 | Big Water Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Ultralite X was designed to cast ½ size heavy lines and handle larger flies, indicator rigs, or situations requiring added power. It excels as a big river rod for long-range dry fly casting, particularly when high line speed is needed to deal with wind or complex conditions.

The Ultralite X shines when you need to manage wind and deliver presentations with precision, making it an ideal choice for challenging conditions like those on the Missouri River in October.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• ½ size heavy lines for power and performance in demanding conditions

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 86/150

 

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Light in hand, but feels generic. This is perfect for the average caster who likes fast rods. 

• Too stiff to be good short 20’-35’. Better at 40’ and even better at 50’. Hard rod for me to cast. I do agree this rod is meant to handle larger flies at longer distances!

• Grip is too long and reel seat is way too long. Fast and stiff and lacks communication. Very tippy at 50’. Smooth but too stiff.

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• This rod definitely excels at distance, even roll casting.

• Pleasant in hand, smooth casting with heavy indicator rig. Excellent in close all the way to 40’. Really good at 40’ roll cast more so than others.

• Somewhat of a difficult rod to cast.

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Hardy Ultralite X 5-weight is a fast, powerful rod that thrives with distance and heavy rigs, particularly in the 40’ plus range. It’s well-suited for anglers who prefer a stiffer feel and need a rod that can handle larger flies and windy conditions. While it performed well on the nymph course and delivered smooth, controlled roll casts, it lacked communication and feel at shorter distances, making it less versatile overall. The long grip and reel seat add to the rod’s bulk, contributing to a casting experience that feels more functional than refined. If you’re the type of angler who needs to cast big, bushy dries or heavier rigs at longer distances over fifty feet, then this is a rod to consider.

Orvis Fly Rods

Orvis Helios F 9' 5 Weight | $1,098.00 | Dry Fly Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
12-20 dries and 5-6x tippet all day.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• Orvis PRO Trout Taper (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 135/195

 

Caster Notes:

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Performed above average, and definitely improved at longer distances. Had enough power throughout to cast into the wind.

• Rod is light in hand and consistent at all distances. It could offer a deeper bend throughout to add in feel/load and allow for easier strokes. Easy to be accurate. Above average for this rod category.

• As a pure accuracy tool, it puts it where you want it. But not a lot of feedback in the process. Not that enjoyable - same at all distances. Feels effortful at longer distance. Resistance to bending. Can it protect light tippets? 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Orvis Helios F 5-weight is a light, accurate rod that performs consistently across all distances, with enough backbone to handle wind and deliver precise casts. It excels as a technical tool for placing flies exactly where intended, but it lacks the deeper bend and feedback that make casting feel intuitive or enjoyable. While it performs above average in its class, coming in 6th in the dry fly course, the rod feels somewhat resistant and effortful, especially at longer ranges, and could benefit from more flex and feel to soften the stroke and better protect light tippets. A sharp, effective rod—though more clinical than soulful.

Orvis Helios D 9' 5 Weight | $1,098.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Larger dries all the way to small streamers and indy rigs. A freshwater do-it-all rod.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• PRO Trout (True to Weight)

• Orvis Power Taper (based on casting preferences)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 97.5/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 120.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE TOTAL SCORE 68.5/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• This is a stiff rod that doesn’t hurt to cast it. Feels like it does need a heavier line, but it is consistent between 30-50’. Relatively easy to cast. 

• Light rod, nice grip, but the grip is too long. It is smooth, easy to be consistent and accurate with. Pleasure to cast, but would like it to flex deeper into the rod.

• Grip is too long. Very stiff at all distances. It is light in hand, owing to stiffness. All action seems to be confined to tip/upper rod. 

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Stiff rod that doesn’t hurt to cast. It is accurate and a bit heavy for technical dry fly fishing. As a ‘do it all,’ I can see it performing well with big dries.

• Not all that nice to cast. Didn’t load enough to communicate to me. Would have scored higher if the load was closer to my hand. 

• Lacks communication throughout range

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Performs well with roll casting and improves as you reach longer distances

• Smooth out at 30’. Plenty of power at 40’. A lot of effort on 40’ roll cast. Fairly unresponsive. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Orvis Helios D 5-weight is a powerful, fast-action rod built for versatility and control, delivering consistent performance across the 30’–50’ range with streamers, nymphs, and larger dry flies. The Helios D 5-weight came in seventh in the streamer and nymph courses, and eighth in performance overall for all-around rods. Light in hand and accurate, it’s smooth and easy to cast, but the action is confined high in the blank, resulting in limited feel and communication. It handles power well—especially in wind or with weighted rigs—but lacks the deeper flex and feedback that some anglers seek for more delicate presentations. A solid “do-it-all” performer with backbone, though it feels more mechanical than soulful in hand.

Orvis Recon 9' 5 Weight | $598.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Like the Helios 905D but a touch softer.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• Orvis Hydros Trout (True to Weight)

• SA Infinity (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 93.5/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 126.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 69/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Soft and slightly not as refined as the Helios D as Orvis says. It’s an OK fly rod, but did not Belgian cast well. 

• Nice rod, performed well handling weight at all distances. Relatively smooth. Wish it bent further in the rod.

• As advertised. Softer than the Helios D, but looser action. A bit tippy at 40’ and 50’. 

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Hard to stop once it gets going. Swing weight becomes hard to control at further distances.

• A nice performance on the dry fly course. Smooth and easy to be accurate. Good load at all distances. 

• Wobbly at 50’, but closer in it is minor, but present

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Very smooth and easy to roll cast at 40’. A lot of touch on the mend. 

• This was an above average rod for the nymph course.

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Orvis Recon 5-weight offers a softer, more approachable action compared to the Helios D, with solid all-around performance that holds up well across trout fishing scenarios. The rod placed ninth in the streamer course, sixth in the nymph course, and seventh overall in performance. It’s smooth, easy to load, and particularly effective on the nymph course, offering good touch on the mend and roll casts. While the rod performs nicely in close and at mid-range, it becomes slightly wobbly and less controlled at longer distances, with a swing weight that’s harder to manage beyond 50 feet. A capable, budget-conscious option that delivers respectable performance, though with slightly less refinement and stability than premium models.

Orvis Clearwater 9' 5 Weight | $249.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
All-purpose rod that lowers the bar for anglers and allows them to experiment with various rigs and techniques.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• Orvis Clearwater Trout (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 89.5/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 126.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 69/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• It has a nice taper and is easy to cast. The grip is big and it does feel heavy. Overall this is a consistent fly rod. 

• Rod is fine. Above average short, and fine with more line, not better. Heavy in hand. Has power and is relatively smooth.

• Grip is too long. Tippy, and pretty stiff butt/mid. It is okay in short, unpleasant at longer casts. Action is not unified or smooth.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• The rod is fine, but has a “clunky” feel. It was average throughout the course.

• Wobbly at all distances, especially in the wind.

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Could help a little more on a 40’ roll. Good feedback on overhead cast. Sligh hinge at 20’. 

• Decent roll casting and mending at 30’ and 40’.

Yellow Dog Finale Takeaway
The Orvis Clearwater 5-weight is a solid, budget-friendly option that offers consistency and ease of casting, particularly for newer or value-conscious anglers. It has a serviceable taper and decent power, performing best at short to mid-range distances. However, the rod feels heavy in hand, with a bulky grip, and suffers from a clunky, unrefined action—especially at longer distances where it becomes wobbly and less responsive. The rod did place tenth in the streamer course and eighth in the nymph course. While it handles nymph rigs reasonably well and offers good feedback on overhead casts, the overall action lacks unity and finesse. A dependable entry-level rod, but not without its limitations.

Scott Fly Rods

Scott Centric 9' 5 Weight | $995.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Freshwater – Fast Action – Lightweight. Designed for all methods of fishing. Great rod at both long and short distances. Sensitive tip section for light tippet. Smooth power transition and adaptable from drift boat to wade fishing scenarios. ALL USA MADE.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA Infinity Smooth (Half-Size Heavy Line)

• Short 5wt Sink Tip

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE TOTAL SCORE 83.5/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 123.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 67/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• This is a fast rod and I experienced some arm fatigue. There is little bend, so hard for heavy files and a struggle for me to hit targets. A little hard to time casting stroke. I felt as if I really needed to speed up my casting stroke. It’s a fast rod, and good for someone who likes casting streamers with fast action.  

• Smooth and controlled at all distances. Overall, above average for me. Light in hand, fast. Since it is fast, it doesn’t load and bend as much as I care for, but handles weight fine.

• The rod is stiff especially in close. Cast really just with the tip. Better in wind with a faster stroke. Smooth enough, but poor communication, so hard to control.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Great rod and very smooth at all distances. Loads well and handles wind with increased power as well as gentle strokes. Easy to be accurate. A pleasure to cast.

• The grip is a good length. It is a stiff and tippy rod, but relatively smooth.

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail 

• Not sure how I like how it picks up off the water and especially in faster water. The tip lags. It is a lot of work to roll cast at 40’. 

• Very smooth. Effortless overhead at 40’. Played well in close and at distance. Fluid across the rod and could handle more distance if you needed it to. 

• I would like more feel and feedback from the rod and more tip feel at longer distances.

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Scott Centric 5-weight is a high-performance, fast-action rod that delivers smooth, controlled casting with excellent accuracy and power—especially in wind and at longer distances. It excels on the nymph course, offering a pleasant, fluid stroke and balanced feel across a wide range. However, the rod is notably stiff and tippy, with limited bend and feel in close, which can make timing and communication challenging, particularly with streamers or on roll casts. While it handles weight well and feels light in hand, the Centric favors experienced casters who prefer speed and precision over softness and feedback.

Scott G Series 9' 5 Weight | $945.00 | Dry Fly Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Dry fly ONLY presentation series. Light tippet specialists. Internal ferrule makes this series fish more like a 1-piece rod, with flex and power through the whole rod. ALL USA MADE.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• Any true-weight fly line (Amplitude Smooth Trout Standard recommended).

Caster Scores:

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 146.5/195

Caster Notes:

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• I thought this was a relatively smooth casting rod at all distances. It performs best in close at 20’-30’. 

• The only negative was that I needed to help at 50’. Rod was smooth. It is excellent in the 20’-30’ range. Really good at 30’. The rod helped me cast at these distances. I could use a little and lots of line speed. Nice grip and reel seat. 

• Grip is a touch large in diameter. There is flex through the rod as designed. Pretty smooth, but not completely unified. The rod has a reasonable feel throughout. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Scott G Series 5-weight is a smooth, moderately-paced rod that truly shines in the 20’–30’ range, offering excellent feel, control, and feedback for close-in trout work with dries. It flexes deeply and evenly as designed, making it an enjoyable casting experience, especially for those who favor a more classic, slower tempo. While it remains relatively smooth at all distances, it requires extra effort to perform beyond 40 feet and isn’t built for power casting or heavy rigs. A great choice for technical dry fly fishing and anglers who appreciate a responsive, feel-driven rod with a relaxed rhythm.

Scott Session 9' 5 Weight | $695.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
All Water Rod – Designed to be a Medium Fast Action Rod – Completely built in USA – The F150 of flyrods – Great Nymphing rod along with sensitive tip for light tippet work

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA Infinity Smooth (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 107/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 136/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 72/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• The rod felt heavy in hand, but it was the first rod of the day that I felt like I could relax and cast. It has a smaller grip, which I love. 

• The rod feels good. Faster than medium, nice at mid to longer distances. Smooth, but could be softer to connect more with the angler. I didn’t get the “brick at the end of the line” feel, which was good. Above average.

• It has a nice grip and diameter. Nice backstop for thumb. Light in hand, smooth overall the whole range of distances. 

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Fast rod that doesn’t hurt. It might be too much for small dries. Nice fly rod to cast.

• Great rod. Performed well above average in dry fly course. Plenty of touch, power, and feel.

• A touch tippy at 50’. Overall, very nice. Wish butt/mid section gave slightly more feedback. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Feels like it is unloading too quickly at 40’ and the rod is not helping. Recovery is too fast for the amount of weight. 

• Pleasure to fish with. Easy in hand. Plenty of power while being soft on the rod. No tugs or hinges. Sensitive tip aids mending and smooth striking on fish.

• Overhead action feels good, best rod so far today. I really enjoy this rod!

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Scott Session 5-weight is a well-balanced, fast-ish action rod that delivers a smooth, enjoyable casting experience across all disciplines. It scored very well, coming in fourth in the streamer and nymph courses, eighth in the dry fly course, and third in overall performance. It feels light in hand with a comfortable grip and shined in all three courses, where it offers a compelling mix of touch, power, and accuracy. While slightly tippy at long distances and a bit quick to unload under heavier nymph setups, it maintains good control, responsiveness, and ease of use. Not overly aggressive or overly soft, the Session strikes a versatile middle ground—making it a standout for anglers who want a rod that’s both easy to cast and fun to fish.

Sage Fly Rods

Sage R8 Core 9' 5 Weight | $1,050.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The R8 CORE was designed as an all-around tool that can do everything well: dries, nymphs, and streamers with a very slight underline on the dry fly fishing part. For the angler looking for an all-rounder that shines the most with dry flies – fast action is great for fishing out of a moving boat and casting a variety of sizes of dry flies.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold WF5F (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 105/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 132.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 63.5/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• The taper doesn’t match and I cannot time the load. I’d prefer less power in the butt of the rod. I definitely think going up a line weight would help this rod perform. Good for the angler who likes a faster rod.

• Adapts well short to longer. Easy to be accurate; however, I would score higher but there’s vibration in the rod/line. Lots and lots of power. This rod ranked very well in handling weight. 

• Grip length and reel seat is good. Fast but smooth, tip good at all distances, but wish butt/mid were more involved for better feedback.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with size 14 Parachute Adams

• Works better with more line out of the rod tip.

• The rod has a good overall feel. I imagine it would be an excellent hopper, stonefly, and dry-dropper rod, but can also handle delicate presentation fine. 

• This rod largely meets expectations. It still feels fast, but is smooth. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Relatively OK at all distances, but I couldn’t get the rod to bend at 40’. 

• Little clunky at 30’, improves at 40’. All around really nice, but could improve on the roll cast. Handled weight overhead fine, with some rods outperforming. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage R8 Core 5-weight is a fast, powerful rod that delivers strong performance across a range of trout applications, especially when casting with more line or handling heavier rigs. The rod placed fifth in the streamer course and tenth in the dry fly course, coming in at sixth in overall performance. It offers smooth power and easy accuracy from short to long distances, though some casters noted excessive stiffness in the butt and mid-section, leading to reduced feedback and a disconnect in timing. While it excels with hoppers, stoneflies, and dry-droppers, it can feel clunky at shorter ranges or when roll casting, and may benefit from being paired with a heavier line. Ideal for anglers who prefer a fast-action rod with high line speed and all-around capability, though not the most intuitive or tactile in hand.

Sage Classic R8 9' 5 Weight | $975.00 | Dry Fly Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
CLASSIC is for an angler who wants to prioritize dry fly fishing but appreciates the ability to throw a small streamer mid day when the fishing gets stale. In my mind CLASSIC brings a level of versatility to the medium action category. It’s an all-day dry fly rod. CLASSIC is probably at it’s best standing in a river and casting at heads. But don’t rule it out for hucking salmonflies from the boat.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold WF5F (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 149/195

Caster Notes:

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with size 14 Parachute Adams

• This rod felt more like a 6 weight, but it was smooth casting rod

• Excellent rod! I imagine that when striking a fis or playing fish on light tippet, this rod would be lovely. Handle is great. Good power. . . the rod aids the angler.

• Nice bend, pretty good through range, better longer. Action not perfectly smooth. Slight sensation of two bends - butt and tip of rod. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage R8 Core Classic 5-weight is a smooth, well-balanced rod that feels more like a 6-weight to some casters, offering excellent stability and confidence when casting or playing fish on light tippet. This rod placed third overall in the dry fly course. It has a comfortable grip, an easy tempo, and a pleasant bend that supports consistent performance across a range of distances. While the action isn't entirely seamless—showing hints of separate flex in the tip and butt—it still provides a composed and reliable casting experience. A polished, versatile rod that blends classic feel with modern responsiveness, especially well-suited for anglers who prefer a slightly beefier 5-weight dry fly rod. 

Sage Igniter 9' 5 Weight | $995.00 | Big Water Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This is the long-carry and/or big payload rod. For the high-performance angler who wants to carry lots of line, make long casts, deliver with ultimate line speed, or maximizing buckets per minute. Or the angler who wants to throw a heavy fly line/heavy fly. Think salmonflies and streamers out of the boat on a big fast river like the Yellowstone or South Fork.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold WF5F (True to Weight)

• RIO Streamer Tip WF5S6

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 74/150

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 55/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Way too fast at 30’ and 40’. It was OK out at 50’. 

• Vibrates and does not load short. It is more accurate and smoother the longer you cast. Very good at long distances, as Sage states. This rod is well described, however not my cup of tea for most fishing situations. Very specialized rod.

• Nice grip, length, and diameter. Very stiff and unpleasant in close. Not great even at 50’. Really a 7-weight or an 8-weight, but as designed it isn’t for close work. Lacks communication all around. Maybe good for distance competitions?

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• No bend for roll casting. This is a mega huck rod.

• Bit clunky up close. Not a lot of feedback at 30’. Better at 40’, but slight wobble. A bit too much effort to roll cast at 30’-40’. Nice aesthetics. 

• Extremely stiff, not cushioning turnover. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage Igniter 5-weight is an ultra-fast, highly specialized rod built for long-distance casting and extreme line speed—but it’s far from versatile. It struggles at short to mid distances, offering little feel, poor roll casting ability, and minimal feedback throughout. While it performs better with more line out and in windy or distance-driven situations, most casters found it too stiff and unforgiving for typical trout fishing applications. More akin to a 7- or 8-weight in feel, the Igniter may appeal to a niche group of distance-focused anglers, but it's overbuilt for most everyday freshwater scenarios.

Sage Sonic 9' 5 Weight | $675.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
A versatile all-rounder that handles a variety of fishing situations and lines well.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold WF5F (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 77/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 107/105

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 55/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Wonky taper and feels disconnected, not smooth. 

• Overall the rod is fine. Does better with more line. No real flaws. A little heavy and I can feel the weight (a sudden jerk) since it’s so stiff. 

• Grip/reel seat is too long. Stiff and poor feedback. No butt/mmid contribution even at 40’ and 50’. Best in close where tip is under control.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• The rod feels more connected in this course vs. the streamer, but still not as smooth.

• Has a wobble or joint in the middle of the rod. Poor performance casting short with a long leader. Not enough load! The best of this rod is at 40’ plus. 

• The rod is slightly wobbly at all distances. No feedback at 20’. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Felt better with water tension and roll cast overhead cast. It too soft at tip stiff in butt

• Hingy at 30’. Smooth out at 40’ and improves on the roll cast at 40’ as well.

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage Sonic 5-weight delivers passable performance, but inconsistent flex and a disjointed taper hold it back from being a standout. It feels stiff overall, with limited feedback and minimal contribution from the butt and mid-section—even at longer distances. While it improved slightly on the dry fly and nymph courses, especially around 40 and 50 feet, it remains wobbly and lacks smoothness and connection across the range. The Sonic is ultimately hindered by a lack of feel, uneven action, and a noticeable “hinge” during casting.

Sage Foundation 9' 5 Weight | $495.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
An all-rounder for anglers who want versatility.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold WF5F (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 73/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 101/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 57.5/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• This rod takes muscle to cast. There isn’t a lot of feel and it is hard to load and time. At 40’ the rod needs line to bend and at 30’ you need a lot of rod speed to get going.

• This rod is “hindgy.” It is heavy and hard to be accurate. Can handle power, but also needs power to perform at a high level.

• The grip is good, but the reel seat is too long. Very fast overall, little feedback, sensation of having to work too hard. This is more of a 7-weight being called a 5-weight. 

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with size 14 Parachute Adams

• I like the way it looks! But it does hurt and needs a heavy line. 

• I can make all casts, but the rod is a bit “clunky.” It’s heavy and doesn’t have much load to make it pleasurable. My loops opened up at 50’. 

• Feeling of heaviness through range. Rod feels like it bends just above the hand, then only bends at the tip. Uncomfortable to cast, but will make the casts.

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• There’s no bend or delicacy in the presentation 

• Improves at longer distances. Roll and overhead casts well at greater distance. Stiff on mending. 

• Good at long distance casting heavy rigs.

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage Foundation 5-weight is a fast, heavy rod that demands effort to cast and feels more like a 7-weight in both stiffness and swing weight. It can handle power and perform with heavier rigs at longer distances, but it lacks feel, finesse, and ease of use—especially in close. Across all courses, the action is clunky and disjointed, with minimal feedback and a tendency to hinge between sections. While it will make the casts if pushed hard enough, it’s not particularly comfortable or intuitive, making it better suited for anglers prioritizing durability and brute strength over nuance and touch.

Redington Fly Rods

Redington Classic Trout 9' 5 Weight | $169.99 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Redington Classic Trout is designed to be a highly versatile trout rod at an affordable price. The moderate action provides the delicacy and accuracy needed for technical dry fly scenarios yet packs enough power for big river and boat fishing. The lightweight blank and forgiving action make it a perfect fit for anglers of any experience level.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• RIO Gold WF5F (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 119/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 147.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 72.5/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• My favorite so far. I like the flex and it has good tempo and the adjustments from shorter to longer and longer to shorter casts are easy. 

• Feels heavier in hand compared to others. Easy to be accurate and loads well. Less effort to cast at all distances. It’s smooth and easy, just heavier than others. Lots of power - can use a lot or less and works well in wind.

• The grip is okay as well as the diameter and taper. Moderate action, good communication overall. The flex is a little loose, but does provide feedback. Not as light in hand, but that is a function of a slower rod. 

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Nice in close. Very little effort to cast. The only negative is the rod has some vibration and is heavy in hand. Not as good long. 

• Powerful, supple, easy to feel. Nice bend amount, but not as smooth as it could be. The butt has a seperate bend from the tip of the rod and feels sloppy initially. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• The bend in the rod is helping positive turnover. Very consistent.

• Fair on roll cast. Struggles on 40’ roll cast. Heavier in hand. Nice touch on mending, but not great for a long day due to weight. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Redington Trout Classic 5-weight is a moderate-action rod with great tempo, intuitive flex, and excellent ease of casting across distances—making it especially enjoyable for anglers who prefer a slower, more relaxed rhythm. The rod did exceptionally well in the streamer course, placing first overall, fourth in the dry fly course, third in the nymph course, and second overall in performance. It loads easily, adjusts well between short and long casts, and provides solid feedback and accuracy without requiring much effort. However, its heavier swing weight and slight sloppiness in the flex—particularly with some vibration and separation between tip and butt—limit its refinement and make it less ideal for longer sessions or extended roll casting. The Redington Trout Classic is a smooth, approachable rod at an incredibly affordable price that that shines in casual, close-to-midrange trout work.

Thomas & Thomas Fly Rods

Thomas & Thomas Avantt II 9' 5 Weight | $985.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This rod is a fast-action technical trout fishing rod. With the ability to handle small streamers, nymphing with indicators, and long leader dry fly presentations, it is an intuitive, easy-to-cast rod that is a jack-of-all-trades workhorse. It excels within average trout fishing distances (20ft to 60ft). The stable tip and fast recovery allow for pinpoint presentations with a variety of flies and leaders.

This rod is ideal for technical trout fishing with dry flies and working small streamers. While a 10ft rod might be better for purely nymphing, this rod casts nymph and indicator rigs with great accuracy and plenty of backbone for repositioning line during mends and setting hooks at distance.

"Effortless Accuracy": This rod cuts line through the air like a scalpel, delivering surgical precision when absolute control is needed.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• Dry Flies: SA Amplitude Smooth Trout Standard (True to Weight)

• All-Rounder: SA Amplitude Smooth Infinity (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 111.5/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 128/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 73.5/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• This rod is fast, but it still has feel. I like the fact that this rod has power without giving up on feel. The tip is stable, light to hand, and easy to cast.

• Light in hand. Fast as described. I can be quick and accurate. Not as soft as I’d like, but for a good/fast action rod, it’s smooth and has more touch than others. It has a nice grip, handles weight just fine and longer casts are possible.

• Fast action as designed, but smooth. Not too tippy at distance. Not the greatest feel, but it is as designed. Light in hand and overall stiff, but decent bend.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• Slow recovery. Today this rod feels a bit tip heavy. 

• No touch in close. Had to work harder to make simple casts. The strength of this rod is at 40’. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Rod performed very well nymphing. The tip of the rod was way more responsive with weight.

• Feels really good in close. Nice in hand. Loads better than others. Struggles some on the 40’ roll cast, but is overall pretty good. 

• Provides feedback at 40’. Slightly tippy and uneven. This is still one of the nicer rods to cast in this course. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Thomas & Thomas Avantt II 5-weight is a fast-action rod that manages to balance power with a surprising amount of feel and responsiveness, especially for its class. The Avantt II placed third in the streamer course, first in the nymph course, and fourth in overall performance. Light in hand, stable, and easy to cast, it handles weight well and performs confidently at longer distances—particularly on the streamer and nymph courses. While it can feel slightly tip-heavy and less refined in close, especially on the dry fly course, it delivers solid feedback and smooth casting when paired with the right load. A polished and capable rod that offers a good blend of performance and touch, especially for anglers who favor fast action without sacrificing feel, which the casters found to be a challenge for all fast action rods.

Thomas & Thomas Paradigm 9' 5 Weight | $985.00 | Dry Fly Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This is the moderate-action dry fly rod. For those with slower casting strokes or those who prioritize delicate presentations, this rod excels at pure finesse and presentation. The deep-loading blank provides ample feedback during casting, enabling controlled loop structure to carry delicate leaders.

While it can handle nymphs and streamers, the rod is best suited for protecting light tippets due to its more moderate action. It shines as a small-stream rod and excels at casting distances of 20-50ft.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• Dry Flies: SA Amplitude Smooth Trout Standard (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 142/195

Caster Notes:

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• It is definitely a rod for in close at the 20’-30’ range. It felt like tracking at distance felt tippy.

• The rod is light in hand. Incredibly smooth. Is good short, but better long. Excels between 30-40’. 

• The grip is good, but the reel seat is a bit long. Medium action, nice in close. A touch loose at 40’ and 50’. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Thomas & Thomas Paradigm 5-weight is a refined, medium-action rod that excels in close with a smooth, fluid feel and excellent control in the 20’–30’ range. It placed sixth in the dry fly course. It’s light in hand and remains composed out to 50’, though some casters noted a slightly loose or tippy feel at longer distances. The rod tracks well at typical dry fly ranges and offers a pleasant, easy rhythm that makes it ideal for technical presentations and finesse fishing. A top-tier choice for anglers who prioritize delicacy, feel, and classic dry fly performance in a modern build.

Thomas & Thomas Zone 9' 5 Weight | $595.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Zone 905 is a moderate-fast action rod that bridges the gap between the Avantt II and Paradigm. It is highly versatile and intuitive, making it ideal for both experienced anglers and beginners. The rod excels in presentations at trout fishing distances (20-60ft) and offers a versatile taper for a wide variety of techniques.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• Dry Flies: SA Amplitude Smooth Trout Standard (True to Weight)

• All-Rounder: SA Amplitude Smooth Infinity (Half-Size Heavy Line)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 86/150

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 129/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 66.5/105

 

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• Fast and cast better with more line at a distance. I like the grip/weight. I needed to make adjustments for shorter casts.

• Nice rod! It is a “moderate fast” action as advertised. Light, nice handle/cork. Easy to cast, could have more flex, but it does accomplish T&T’s goal. Overall above average.

• Solid grip. Very stiff, lacks communication completely. Hard to control tip at distance. 

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• The rod did well in close, but felt sluggish on casts further out

• It got better over time. Smooth at distance. Not bad. Fast, needed to be fast and use power in the stroke. Excelled at distance, easy to be accurate and move line out.

• Stiff but smooth. Will do all casts well, but not a lot of feel or feedback from the rod. Good overall. All casts are off the tip. 

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Big recovery, but the tip felt weak. It excels at casting 30’ overhead. I felt like the rod could use some more weight at the tip. It did roll cast well at further distances.

• Enough bend to feel good at 20’ and 30’. Roll casts better than most at 40’. 

• Not bad, similar to Carbon XL. Solid rod and provides feedback while nymphing. Pleasant to fish. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Thomas & Thomas Zone 5-weight is a moderately fast-action rod that delivers solid performance across a range of trout techniques, especially at mid to longer distances. Light in hand with a comfortable grip, it’s easy to cast and aligns well with T&T’s design intent, though it could benefit from more flex and feel—particularly at shorter ranges and on dry fly presentations. While it lacks communication at distance and can feel stiff off the tip, it performed surprisingly well on the nymph course with effective roll casting and decent feedback and on the dry fly course in windy conditions. The Zone placed tenth in the nymph course and ninth in overall performance. A dependable, well-rounded rod that offers good value and fishability, though not as refined as the Thomas & Thomas Avantt II.

Winston Fly Rods

Winston Pure 2 9' 5 Weight | $995.00 | Dry Fly Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Designed for technical dry fly fishing, the Pure 2 excels at short-distance delicate casts to mid-range presentations (15ft-50ft). While it can handle longer casts, the rod performs best in the 15-50ft range—ideal for most dry fly fishing scenarios.

The action is dialed for a wider, open, controlled loop, offering enough stability to track accurately and make tough dry fly presentations. The rod has enough backbone in the bottom half to throw a tight loop off the tip section, cutting through wind when needed.

This rod features moderate-fast action: enough flex in the tip section to generate line speed, while the softer bottom half provides exceptional feel at shorter distances.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA Amplitude Smooth Standard Trout (True to Weight)

Caster Scores:

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 165.5/195

Caster Notes:

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with Yard Indicator

• This is a nice, smooth, lightweight technical fly rod

• The smoothest, lightest, easiest casting rod yet!

• Nice feel throughout range. Easy to cast and light in hand. Meets designed parameters as specified, which is saying something. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
All three casters ranked the Winston Pure 2 as the top performing fly rod in the dry fly course. The Pure 2 offers exceptional feel and effortless casting across distances, making it one of the most intuitive and enjoyable rods in its class. True to its design, it prioritizes finesse and feedback over brute strength, performing beautifully in close and with delicate presentations. An ideal choice for anglers who appreciate refined action and classic dry fly performance.

Winston Air 2 9' 5 Weight | $1,195.00 | All-Around Rod

 

From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Air 2 is the multi-application, fast-action workhorse in the Winston lineup. Built to handle a wide variety of fishing applications, it excels in roll casting a nymph rig, gently presenting a dry fly, tucking a hopper under the bank, and turning over small streamers.

Slightly stiffer and faster than the Pure 2, the Air 2 performs exceptionally well at a wide range of casting distances (20-60+ft). It casts cleanly off the tip to create a tight, fast loop but can also utilize the mid sections to throw a wider loop when needed.

From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?

• SA Amplitude Smooth Trout (True to Weight)

• RIO Gold (True to Weight)

• (Or any line in the 0.5-0.75 heavy range to AFFTA standards)

Caster Scores:

STREAMER COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 118/150

 

DRY FLY COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 153.5/195

 

NYMPH COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 73/105

Caster Notes:

Streamer Course | 7.5’ 3x leader with size 4 Zonker 

• I like the taper and it feels good in hand. I can feel the rod bend at 30’, and it is easy to hit the targets. I don’t have to compensate for the rod going from 30’ to 50’ Cuts into the wind easily.

• A bit “hingey” in short, but smooths out with more line. Very smooth at 40’-50’ and easy to be accurate, nice rod to cast and fish most all applications. A little too tippy/or soft tip. 

• Grip is good, as well as diameter and shape. Reel seat is too long. Very light in hand, fast but not too stiff, still good feedback. Nice and smooth at all distances.

Dry Fly Course | 10’ 5x leader with size 14 Parachute Adams

• I feel like I can relax and just cast!

• Light in hand. Smooth. Rod aids the angler. Little effort to turn over leader long and short. Easy to be accurate.

• Light in hand, which is partially offset by its stiffness. Pretty good feedback, not perfectly smooth through range, but good. “Workhorse” as specified by the manufacturer, is accurate.

Nymph Course | 9’ leader with size 8 Girdle Bug and size 16 BH Pheasant Tail

• Excels in close, a little too much effort on roll cast at 30’-40’. Beautiful and responsive. Going to excel in common trout applications, but requires more effort at distance. 

Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Winston Air 2 5-weight is a light, responsive rod that offers a smooth, easy casting experience across a wide range of trout fishing situations. The rod performed extremely well, placing second in all courses, and coming in first in overall performance. It performs particularly well from 30’ to 50’, with a comfortable taper, excellent accuracy, and a forgiving feel that allows anglers to relax into their cast. While slightly “hingy” in close and requiring some extra effort on longer roll casts, the rod delivers solid feedback, smooth transitions, and dependable performance for dry flies, nymphs, and even light streamers. The Winstin Air 2 is a versatile, well-balanced rod that lives up to its reputation as a capable and enjoyable all-around workhorse.

Fly Rod Warranty Information

G. Loomis

G. Loomis rods* are covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty against non-conformities in workmanship and materials for the life of the original owner. https://www.gloomis.com/pages/services

G.Loomis Expeditor Service:
Our Xpeditor Service is a no-fault, “no questions asked” replacement program designed to get you back on the water fast (U.S. And Canada customers only). If your registered rod is damaged or broken, this program provides a same-model replacement for a very fair price.

https://www.gloomis.com/pages/xpeditor

Repair/Handling Price: Varies by rod

ECHO

All ECHO rods are covered by our policy over the natural life of the product for the original owner at the discretion of Rajeff Sports.  Rods that are determined to be damaged by abuse or neglect, either by physical or environmental factors (excessive wear and tear beyond normal use, saltwater corrosion, mold damage, damage from vehicles, etc) are not covered by our warranty policy.

If your rod breaks during normal fishing use, we will repair or replace your rod for a service fee (fee level differs by rod model) while the rod is a currently produced model and repairable.  If your rod is a discontinued model and/or is not repairable, you will be offered a current equivalent replacement model at 50% off the MSRP.

Most current production models will have replacement tips available for purchase through our website without submitting a warranty/repair request.

Rajeff Sports / ECHO Fly Fishing reserves the right to update and change this policy at any time.  We understand that every situation is unique and strive to stand by our products and guarantee quality, performance and reliability.  Accidents happen, and we want you to have options to get back on the water.  Quality control and manufacturing inconsistencies also happen, though rarely, and we want to make sure we do everything in our power to get them corrected.

All warranty and service requests are processed at the discretion of our warranty department. Rods deemed not repairable will be discarded unless explicitly requested before service is performed. Any return shipping fees on canceled/declined service requests are the responsibility of the customer.

Once we get your rod or reel, we typically have it processed within a few days.  This can vary based on a number of unpredictable factors, but 2-3 days is the average.  During busy times, processing could take up to a few weeks.  If this is the case, we sincerely apologize in advance.

In the case we are out of the parts needed and have more on the way, your repair may be delayed for up to a few weeks (this does not happen very often): https://echoflyfishing.com/warranty-policy/

Repair/Handling Price: Fee level differs by rod model. 

Hardy

As an owner of a Hardy carbon/glass fibre rod, you are entitled to take part in the Hardy Product Warranty and Repair Service. To do so, you need to register your rod within 60 days of purchase. If you have not already done so, you may register your product through the link below. You will be required to create an account when registering.

Once you have registered to take part in the Hardy Product Warranty and Repair Service you will be entitled for the lifetime of the product to the repair or replacement (at our discretion) of damaged, broken or defective sections of your rod in accordance with these terms.

The Hardy Product Warranty and Repair Service is in addition to and does not affect or reduce the owner’s statutory rights which cover against manufacturing faults and mis-described goods during the statutory period. Please ensure you retain proof of purchase as this will be requested upon making a claim under your statutory rights.

You are responsible for the shipping cost of the rod or section to the Hardy Customer Service Department. Goods covered by the Hardy Product Warranty and Repair Service will be repaired or replaced at the discretion of Hardy. We will try to match, so far as is reasonably possible, a replacement rod section to a broken section. However, there may be color/material and specification variations in the replacement sections against the original.

The Hardy Product Warranty and Repair Service does not cover lost or stolen rod(s) or rod section(s). The Hardy Product Warranty and Repair Service does not cover any associated or consequential liability due to use of the rod.

This warranty only applies to the original owner.

In the event that you have a valid claim under this service we will repair or replace the rod in accordance with these terms, but we will not be liable to you for any other loss, cost, claim or damage that you may suffer except for those losses which arise as a foreseeable consequence of us breaching these terms.

Repair/Handling Price: $75 to cover repair/replacement, handling, administration and return postage and packing charge (per claim).

https://www.hardyfishing.com/pages/warranty-policy

Orvis

The Orvis 25-Year Guarantee ensures that if your fly rod breaks, we’ll fix it or replace it—no questions asked.

Covered Rods: If you purchased a Helios™, Helios™ 3, Recon®, Superfine®, Clearwater®, or Mission rod from Orvis or an authorized Orvis dealer, we’ll repair or replace it for 25 years. If it can’t be fixed, we’ll provide a newer model of equal or greater value (exact model at our discretion)—all for just a nominal handling fee.

The unprecedented quality control and enhanced manufacturing tolerances we’ve realized in the Helios, Helios 3, Mission, Superfine Carbon, and current-model Clearwater and Recon rods have made it possible for us to simply send a new tip, tip mid, or butt mid-section to replace your broken one. Please follow the simple steps for getting a repair and we commit to getting you back on the water in 5 business days. Although our standard shipping alert on the checkout page will list 5-7 days, we will upgrade your shipment to 2-day. We're looking forward to seeing you out on the water and hearing your valued feedback. For broken butt sections, you’ll need to send your rod to us for repair.

**Subject to replacement part availability. If parts are not currently available, you will need to send in your rod for repair. Standard turnaround time for repairs is 4-6 weeks from receipt of your broken rod.

Your rod is eligible for this program if you have a serial number on the reel seat and your rod is a Helios, Helios 3, Mission, Recon, Superfine Glass, Clearwater, or Encounter.

Repair/Handling Price: $60

Sage

Every new Sage rod and reel purchased through an authorized dealer is covered by our original owner warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

This warranty is limited to repair and replacement of the rod or reel and does not cover direct, indirect, consequential, incidental, or any other type of damage resulting from the use of the product. This warranty does not cover misuse, neglect, normal wear, fire, theft, missing/lost rod sections, intentional breakage, modification or customization of the finished rod. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state.

Sage reserves the right to determine whether to repair or replace any Sage product covered by this warranty and the right to replace any discontinued models with comparable models when necessary. Colors and components may vary between original and replacement parts.

The original owner warranty against defects in materials and workmanship applies to rods with a serial # beginning with the letter "A" and higher, including all double letters (i.e., AA, AB, and AC). One exception is the rods manufactured with a serial number Q, R, S, or T. These rods carry an unconditional, original owner lifetime warranty.

Should breakage occur outside of warranty coverage (when it's not the result of material defects or workmanship), a repair or replacement can be processed for a fee. Some items are no longer repairable. In these situations, Far Bank will contact you with alternative options once our technicians have completed their inspection of your item.

To invoke this warranty, the original owner must send the entire Sage product, including broken parts or pieces, freight paid and insured to the Bainbridge Island address provided during the online repair process.

Repair Price: $50 for current models

https://farbank.com/pages/repairs-pricing  

https://farbank.com/pages/warranty-repair-policy

Redington

Every new Redington rod purchased through an authorized retailer, except the Crosswater Series and the Minnow and Topo Combos, is covered by our original owner warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. The Crosswater, Minnow, and Topo are covered by a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship and must include a dated proof of purchase.

This warranty is limited to the replacement of the rod or reel only. It does not cover direct, indirect, consequential, incidental, or any other type of damage resulting from the use of the product. This warranty does not cover misuse, neglect, normal wear, fire, theft, missing/lost rod sections, intentional damage, or modification or customization of a finished rod. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state.

Redington reserves the right to determine whether to replace any Redington product covered by this warranty and the right to replace any discontinued models with newer ones when necessary. Colors and components may vary between original and replacement parts.

Should breakage occur outside of warranty coverage (when it's not the result of material defects or workmanship), a replacement can be processed for a fee. Some items are no longer repairable. In these situations, Far Bank will contact you with alternative options once our technicians have completed their inspection of your item. For non-warranty tip breakage, Redington may offer a rod tip-only purchase, pending availability. Similarly, spare tips for most Redington rods are available for purchase directly from the Redington website here and can be procured at any time by the consumer regardless of need.

To invoke this warranty, the original owner must send the entire Redington product, including broken parts or pieces, freight paid and insured to the Bainbridge Island address provided during the online repair process.

For more information, see our Repair FAQ and Repair Pricing pages. See bottom section of this page for general information on Warranty v. Repair determination factors.

Repair Price: $50 for current models

Scott

We design rods for high performance and build them to last a lifetime.  Sometimes things don’t go as planned and you break a rod (sometimes even we mess up).  It’s for these occasions that we warranty our fly rods and have a dedicated repair department of rod craftsmen.

The Scott Lifetime Warranty applies only to the original owner of new graphite and fiberglass rods, purchased from an authorized Scott dealer, that are registered within 30 days of purchase.

Unregistered or resold rods are not covered by this warranty. Rods purchased from third party sites such as Ebay or Amazon are not covered by the warranty.

The warranty does not cover loss or theft, loss or damage caused by transportation such as airlines, UPS, FedEx, US Mail, intentional damage, or damage from neglect. Scott guarantees every registered fly rod and blank we craft with a serial number greater than 35,000 (made after ~ 1994). Thread colors may vary from those on the original rod. Discontinued cosmetic options and components may be replaced with their most comparable equivalent.

(Repairs can take 10 to 12 weeks to complete from the time they are received. When your repair is complete, we will mail back your rod.)

Repair/Handling Price: Each rod being returned for repair will be charged $65.00 for return shipping and handling. The entire rod must be returned.

Thomas & Thomas

Upon receipt of a completed warranty card or online registration, Thomas & Thomas warrants its graphite and fiberglass fly rods against breakage due to defects in materials, manufacturing or workmanship for the life of the original purchaser as long as he/she retains ownership of the rod, ordinary wear and tear excepted. This warranty shall be effective if the rod is purchased from an authorized Thomas & Thomas dealer and the original warranty card or a facsimile thereof is delivered to Thomas & Thomas within 30 days of purchase.

Blanks are also covered by the warranty under the same conditions, though no registration is required. Service is limited to replacement of blank section(s) only, Thomas & Thomas will not build-out the part.

This warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of the rod or blank. Every Thomas & Thomas fly rod is carefully inspected prior to shipment. However, if any defect in workmanship should appear, simply send the rod or blank to Thomas & Thomas and it will be repaired or replaced.

A return shipping, handling and mailing insurance charge will be applied to repairs. Warranty does not cover lost sections or lost rods. Original owner is responsible for the cost of sending in the rod to be repaired, with tracking and insurance coverage recommended. Materials and color may vary from those used on the original rod (for example, in the event that the model is no longer in production).

This warranty does not cover damage caused by use for other than its intended purpose, intentional breakage, or abuse or neglect in the use, transport or storage of the rod. It does not include damage caused by others through attempted modifications or customization of the finished rod, or damage caused by others during assembly of a blank into a finished rod. If a rod or blank needs to be repaired or replaced as a result of damage caused by actions or conditions excluded from warranty coverage, Thomas & Thomas can repair or replace it at a reasonable charge. In no event does Thomas & Thomas accept or assume any responsibility or liability for incidental or consequential damages related to or arising from ownership or use of the rod or blank: https://thomasandthomas.com/pages/superior-warranty

Repair/Handling Price: There is a $75 service fee for graphite and fiberglass rods registered to the original owner, and non-warranty repairs are available for a reasonable charge. All repairs are done in-house, one at a time, by skilled craftsmen.

Winston 

The WINSTON UNCONDITIONAL LIFETIME GUARANTEE covers every new Winston boron/graphite and graphite fly rod and blank against breakage or manufacturer’s defects. This warranty is available only to the original owner of products purchased from an authorized Winston Dealer. This warranty covers, at Winston’s option, the repair of the original rod or the replacement of the rod with an equivalent rod only. To qualify for this warranty, the original owner must either send Winston a completed warranty card or register the rod online. Warranty cards can be scanned and emailed to info@winstonrods.com. The warranty does not cover lost rods, lost rod sections, intentional breakage, misuse, neglect, cosmetic wear or scratches. Warranty coverage for Winston blanks is limited to the blank only. The serial number for every Winston can be found in the script closest to the cork on the rod.

For all warranty work, the entire rod must be returned to Winston. The rod owner agrees that Winston assumes no associated or ancillary liability due to use of the rod, including consequential or incidental damages. This guarantee gives you specific, limited legal rights. You may have additional rights under applicable state law: https://winstonrods.com/company/warranty-repair/warranty/

Repair/Handling Price: $75.00