This was my decision process on virtually the same question.

I had tried a 690 XP about 4 years ago that a guide had in his boat and really loved it. It suited my fast style and moved big stuff out very well. So I bought one.

Two years ago I convinced myself that I needed a 4 weight to match the 6. I walked into the shop to buy a 490 XP when the owner and friend suggested I take it and the 490-4 SLT down to the river and try them both. Two hours later I returned to the store and bought the SLT. The soft light touch was perfect for smaller water and smaller flies.

In my opinion the SLT-4 was the perfect complement. The 6 for big stuff, hoppers, streamers, and lead. The 4 for dry flies, 12-22. At the end of last summer the 4 wt was lost (ouch, don't ask) and there is a new one waiting for me to pick up.

For what it is worth, most of my fishing is in SW Montana.


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Bob