[wildgene]

Had an chance to cast a prototype T&T 10' 5wt. rod @ the FFF Conclave. Simon Gawesworth had it out back @ the casting pond playing w/ it. This thing is not a toy, really kind of stiff down in the butt. Watching him cast it was an education in itself. Getting to cast it was a howlll. A little tough to get the timing down, but when you hit it, 50-70' casts were a breeze. Does anyone see a niche for this kind of rod; I'm thinking of some friends w/rotator cuff problems, also thinking hoppers on a certain nameless river w/ walls of willows.
Good drifts,
Gene

 

[Nooksack Mac]

At a recent casting clinic, a Sage 5100-4 XP, 10' 5-weight was a revelation. Nothing tricky about its fast action, just blinding accelleration to the backing knot and beyond. I invisioned its use in a lake situation, where even prolific rises seem to occur at or beyond long casting range.
But I don't think I'd want that much rod for all-around dry-fly work.

 

[wildgene]

Hi Mac,
I have a an 11' 6wt. XP I use for nymphing & streamers. Like you said, it's a lot of rod. The T&T 10' 5wt. I tried is a true doublehanded rod. It isn't a extra fighting butt or the like. Granted the grips are relatively short, so your hands are closer together than I'm used to, but it is a real doublehanded rod. I hesitate to say "Spey" because like I mentioned it seems fairly fast. It' definitely no slouch, especially w/ Simon @ the controls, but even I managed to get some pretty fair casts out of it. Obviously a specialty type piece, but then so is a 2wt.Anyway, it was sure a kick in the backside having Mr. Gawesworth give me casting lessons w/ it.
Good drifts,
Gene