The Blanton site has a thread about 2 handed rods for saltwater fishing. I also reviewed a recent article in Saltwater Fly Fishing on the topic. In both cases, ease of casting and being able to get the line out are the main advantages discussed. However, while they talk about types of rods in general, they don't do a great job of mentioning specific models.
What I want to do: I want a rod able to punch line out longer distances from or along the beach (large lakes and saltwater). I want to be able to cast into the wind more effectively when necessary. I also want to use less effort to get those casts out. For the most part, I cast out from or along the beach and then use a single or double hand retrieve to bring the fly in. This process is repeated over and over until some fish bites the fly or I go home. Currently, I use this technique on large saline coastal Dutch lakes for trout or Danish beaches for sea trout. Wind is a greater issue here then when I lived in Seattle, where I beach fished for coho and searun cutts. What I think I know: European 2 handed rods are faster then what are called "spey rods". The spey cast principles its style on the roll cast which uses the water's surface tension to help load the rod. Spey casts also use a slower blank. The European 2 handed rods are based on the principle of an overhead cast and use a faster blank. I don't want the rod to be a monster. I feel a 9 wght on a four lb trout is over kill. So I am thinking in the range of a 7 wght? Based on that, I think I need a two handed overhead rod. If that is right, Meiser's article in Fly Anglers on Line tells me I need a fast or ultra fast blank. Manufactures of fast and ultra fast blanks for a European two-handed overhead rod in a 7 wght. are: TALON, SAGE, THOMAS & THOMAS, (are there any European manufacturers?) However, some postings indicate that models from other manufacturers may apply as well, depending on the model within the line. For example, one Cabelas rod (which may be a Loop) is very fast while another model for a heavier line is rather limber. What I would like to know: If I were in the States, I would go to the local spey shop in Carnation, check out some rods and thus answer some of these questions for myself. I'm not there, so I have to take a gamble by buying a rod and trying it out. 1 - Am I way out in left field with trying to get a two handed rod to do the above job? 2- If not, I would like particular comments on rods or blanks that would meet the needs mentioned above. (particularly inexpensive ones) 3 - I would like any feedback from others that are using a two handed rods in similar circumstances? Cost wise, I am guessing around $400 but would like to do this for less. While I would prefer a complete rod, I am experienced at rod building. Building a rod myself would reduce cost or compensate for shoddy workmanship on an otherwise perfectly acceptable blank. Mike http://www.danblanton.com/Messages/557.html http://flyanglersonline.com/features/spey/
