Steelheading - easy, near easy and near impossible

[Ants]

It has finally sunk in. Buying the rod at $400 was the cheap expense. When all the line options are added up, $400 would be a bargain.

Thanks all for the advice.

Ants

[briansII]

It has finally sunk in. Buying the rod at $400 was the cheap expense. When all the line options are added up, $400 would be a bargain.

Thanks all for the advice.

Ants

It's a never ending search for that perfect line. The "spey" world is growing in the US, and new lines are hitting the market at a relatively fast pace. There's a temptation to try every one of them. Luckily, I got a bunch of skagit and scandi heads on closeout after Rio updated their lines. The old, Rio Skagit Flight is a very good head, and a few can still be had for under $30. The taper is different than the new heads, and I actually like the old taper better(slightly longer head with a finer tip taper). A few closeout scandi lines are out there too. So you don't have to spend a ton of money on lines, if you can find deals, and resist the urge to try the latest, greatest.

I have a soft spot for long belly lines. These go for 100 - 150+ bucks. As "spey" gets more popular, manufactures are bringing back(2 new lines will be available in the next few months) the longer lines. The temptation will increase. Must remain strong.......

PM sent, Ants

briansII

[Ants]

The new Rod and reel arrived today. The grips even have plastic shrink wrap on the covers - a first for me. The fly top has reinforcing arms like spinning gear! The design and finish is very tasteful. The outside temp is over 100 so I won't go down to the lake and immediately start two hand casting. The assortment of Skagit lines is due for Saturday delivery. Woo Hoo!

Thanks again for the advice. Special thanks to Brian!

Ants

[Jimbo Roberts]

Also look for any closeouts on the 3M series as Orvis bought them out and is coming out with all new lines in the fall.
I just bought a 3M GPX WF4 for 48.44 at "The Tackle Box" a local flyfishing store in San Antonio.

Jimbo

[Ants]

Jumbo,

Thanks for the alert.

Money saved goes for travel expenses in trips like yours!

I am still trying to figure out how you found enough time in a day to drive a lot, fish / hike a lot, eat and sleep, and still compose those great reports!

Ants