[DLoop]

What's Your Latest Thinking: Tip Line for Steelhead Specialist

Was wondering what your favorite tip line is for the Steelhead Specialist?

I did search and look through past threads )), and there was a lot of great discussion. Here are the tip line systems that folks mentioned as their favs:

* Windcutter 11/12/13 cut short
* Long delta 9/10
* SA 8/9, and SA Short 8/9

What is you favorite today?

thanks,

 

[Moose]

I'll add to this question....

...by saying that I am looking to buy either the Steelhead Specialist or the Skagit and it's primary purpose will be to fish for kings and winter run steelhead with tips. I understand that the SS is supposed to be the more versatile and the Skagit lighter, but which is the better tip rod and with what lines are you succesfull at launching them? I'm looking for the most effective fishing machine (with tips) rather than the "Prettier Casting" rod.

I should add that I really prefer a faster rod, and I understand that the Skagit is slower, but if it is the preferred tool for the job then that is what I'm really after and I can adapt. After all, adding to ones skill level by learning to utilize multiple methods will make one a more effective fisherman. And again, I'm looking to fish with it, not cast pretty loops (I already have rods for that :smokin: ).

 

[Carl]

Many choices, more a matter of your preferred style and conditions.

If it's above freezing and I don't mind shooting, the (Skagit style) WC 11/12/13 w/o tip 2 is good. The MS 9/10 w/ tips is a good mid-range line. I'm not as big a fan of tips on longer bellies, but the 8/9 XLT cut back does nicely with tips when it's cold enough that guide icing is a problem. The Steelhead Specialist handles such a range of lines well that you shouldn't have a problem finding a good match. The key is really what style of casting and line you prefer.

Carl

 

[MJC]

Hey Moose...

by saying that I am looking to buy either the Steelhead Specialist or the Skagit and it's primary purpose will be to fish for kings and winter run steelhead with tips.

Maybe it's time to take a test drive and compare the two. :smokin:

 

[Carl]

To add...

my line comments above related to the Steelhead Specialist. The two rods, although not too far apart in size, were designed with different purposes in mind--although numerous threads here illustrate that both rods are very versatile. My advice would be:

1) select the rod that best matches your primary use on the waters you fish most, and
2) try to spend some quality time with both on that water.

MJC sent me a Steelhead Specialist and a Custom to try early last winter. I bought the Specialist. I suggest taking advantage of his offer. There's really no substitute for #2 above to really nail it down, although you may find yourself not wanting to send either rod back. :lildevl: They are really that good.

Carl

 

[Skilly]

Specialist with tips

For the Specialist with tips.

WC 8/9/10 with the upgrade

Long Delta 9/10

Mid Spey 9/10

Floating line Wulf TT-10-F

My SS is on loan for a fellow to try, but its still for sale.