I made my decision and bought my new small stream rod!

After much hemhawing, stamping of feet, wringing of hands, whistling and general procrastination, I picked it up, zeroed in on my goal and bought my new small stream rod/reel combo. :D

I really thought this was going to look like the big N.A.S.C.A.R. wreck at Talladega but, with no small effort from all of you, I got through it in great shape. I followed your advice diligently and check out everything I could get my hands on. Even gave some real hard consideration to some nice Banty bamboo.

The two finalists were the TFO 2 piece One series 2wt in 6' length with a DT-3W-f line and Cabela's Traditional 6'6" 2wt with a DT-3W-F line. Cabela's was giving me a better deal than Bass Pro on both rods with a Prestige Plus Mid Arbor reel, 20lb backing and Prestige Plus line, so that narrowed it down to one place to shop.


After trying both rigs I picked the Cabela's rig. The Cabela's Traditional rod was six inches longer but seemed to have a bit more backbone and a really nice action for my casting style. It took less effort to lay out 60 feet of line with the Cabela's rod and the balance with the mid arbor reel, Prestige Plus, is a close to perfect as one can get.

Another pus for the Cabela's rod is the walnut reel seat, I like furniture, and silver plated up locking ring. Add in the beautiful dark green color of the stick and it is one eye catching outfit. The Cabela's outfit was also $20 cheaper but the critical deciding factor was the distance, accuracy and ease of casting. That is where the Cabela's Traditional rod really shone through.

I really cannot thank all of you enough for your advice. You really helped me with your experience and encouragement. We are family at this board for certain. I will hit the water next Monday with new rod in hand. Hopefully I will have some first fish pics to share with you. Thank you everyone for your help and patience. :D

:D
Eric;
Just hope you never get into the backing!! Now, you will use the Castwell Knot to attach the leader won't you?
Also sound like you may need a couple of furled leaders for that rig?!

Jack,
Yes to all! I have a nice furled leader that I got from Robin Rhyne but I think one will not be enough. :D

Boy, the proof is really in the pudding. Being able to put both outfits in your hands and try them out makes decisions a lot easier. I'm sure both outfits are very good, and another caster may have picked the other outfit to meet his/her own needs and style. That's why there are sooooooo many choices out there.

Lots of good luck with your new toy.

Joe

Hi Eric,

I'm sure you will enjoy your new small stream rod. I picked up a 7'6" 3 wgt from here for small streams and I really enjoy it. My closest fishing river doesn't require a 5wgt, so I'm really have a ball with it. Took me awhile to get used to the difference in feel from my 5 and 8/9 wgt rods, but that was all part of the fun.

- Jeff

Joe,
Agreed!

Jeff,
Right you are about getting used to the action. I did a little lawn casitng in the yard before sunset tonight. I discovered that I need to really slow it down with this rod. Once I slowed my stroke down I started laying out some sweet casts. Like you said, learning is part of the fun. :D

Ain't life grand when you have the two largest outdoor retailers within an hours drive of each other with more inventory to check out than most people see in a lifetime!

Enjoy your rod!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Bamboozle

Ain't life grand when you have the two largest outdoor retailers within an hours drive of each other with more inventory to check out than most people see in a lifetime!

Enjoy your rod!

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Plus, and a big plus at that, all of the fly shops in the same area! :D

Must admit I'm a little envious of your choices Eric!
Considering my location, I decided on the E-bay shotgun approach for my small stream rod.
In the last three wks I've picked up two used graphites, one a 6.5' medium, the other a med-fast 7'...both 4 wts. Just to make sure...I splurged and got a vintage 6.5' fiberglass as well. :lol:
I suspect they'll all do an adequate job and maybe one will shine. :wink:

Hope you have good luck and if so looking forward to your photos.