I’ve been looking for a budget 8’6" foot 3 wgt for the little spring creeks of my midwest hometown. Been eyeing the TFO Finesse series, but I don’t have a shop nearby to my house that I can go throw a few of them. Any input would be greatly appreciated. I recently saw this Cortland Brook series reviewed in this months Flyfisherman (July). Thanks!
Last Saturday I cast a Cirtland Brook series rod in an 8’ 4 weight. Had a nice feel and cast well. I mean I was able to get some casts beyond 65’ (measured) even with a wind. Now I’m not a very good distance caster but I’ll bet someone who is can do a good double haul and get that line out another 25 or 30 feet. Not that it’s needed but the rod could do it. I didn’tlook too closely at the cosmetics and my friend told me that the reel was held by two rings and not a reel seat. I hadn’t even noticed. Anyway, looked and handled like a nice rod.
Deezel
cpholley - your hometown says Minneapolis. If that’s your location, then you’ve got two shops relatively close by that you can go to try those rods.
Both Bob Mitchell’s Fly Shop up in Lake Elmo and The Fly Angler in Fridley carry the Cortland Brook series. I’ve cast the 4 wt on the lawn with only about 25 feet of line out and they are very nice. I believe the Fly Angler also carries TFO, but I haven’t cast the Finesse series. Even if you’re a bit farther, I believe it would be worth the drive to cast them in person before buying.
Thanks hutjensmpg, but I’ve recently moved to Texas… so freakin far from any fishable trout I try not to think about it. There is a local fly shop here that carries the TFO and I threw it a bit yesterday, but not the Cortland. I love that sticker price tho! I’m all about a budget rod. Thanks for the recommendations though, I’ll check out Bob Mitchell’s when I’m home next…great store.
Condolences, no one should ever be further than a day trip from trout!
Since you’re far away, I’ll give a bit more info. I cast that Brook side by side with a Z-Axis just for kicks. With 25 feet out, the action felt very similar - a not overly stiff, progressively fast action.
As I lengthened the line, you could tell the Z had a LOT more pop, but the Brook was VERY fishable about to about 45 feet, which is as far as I took it. If you’re looking for a quick, progressive action with feel for the small creeks around here, I think you’d be very satisfied with the Brook.
never threw either of them but do have the TFO Pro series and really like them, also found out the warrenty is great. also picked up a st croix avid in 7’ 3wt, wow, what a nice little rod, highly recommend them too.