Fishing with Rod Discussion Forum

Fishing in British Columbia => General Discussion => Topic started by: Spawn Sack on November 27, 2017, 12:15:01 AM

Title: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on November 27, 2017, 12:15:01 AM
Thinking of buying (yet another) fishing rod. A center pin rod. In my defense I only own two. The first is an old (like 30 years old) Lamiglass 10'6, 9wt, fly rod that was built up as a CP rod. Father in law gave it to me last year as it had not been fished for many moons and I was looking for my 1st CP rod. Nice super light rod. A blast on salmon up to 10lbs in slow-moderate water. Pretty underpowered on anything over 10lbs esp in water with a bit of flow to it.

2nd rod I bought used off this site recently. Fenwick HMX, 10'6, moderate power, 10-20 line rating. Love this rod! Nice action when casting and playing a fish, not too heavy, nice ergonomic reel seat that allows your palm to touch the rod blank. Only complaint is the location of the reel seat is a tad high for my liking. I've caught many chum on this rod over 15lbs and it handled them no sweat. Yet the rod did not feel overpowering on coho in the 6-8lb range. I plan to fish it for steelhead and I'm sure it will not let me down. I also think it would handle springs fairly well. The rod is rated medium power but I'd say it is on the high end of medium.

Really no "need" to upgrade this rod, however I bought a new sexy centerpin reel: A Campbell 4 1/2 inch. I'll fish it on the HMX for now but down the road I would like a sexier/higher end rod to go with this beauty of a reel.

I'd like something pretty close in power to the HMX. A good rod for steelhead and coho, with enough backbone to handle chum and springs. I don't care if it is not a meat stick that will turn the biggest white spring in its tracks. Cost/benefit wise I'd rather fish a lighter rod all day.

Rods I have in mind are:

Sage 3106B. I think the 3106LB would be a bit too soft.
Sage 3113LB. I think this rod would have just enough backbone for springs and chum.
Sage 3113B. More than enough power, but some people say it's heavy to fish all day.

Rainshadow XST 1263. Buddy at work has one. I fished it a bit and caught 1 coho on it. Very nice light rod. Going off old forum discussions on this site people say it's comparable in power to a Sage 3106LB or even 3106B, but faster action. I'm sure I would be very happy with one of these, however the Sage rods make me feel a little more touchy-feely/tingley. They are such a classy looking rod, even a factory rod! The Rainshadow is an unexciting matt grey. Looks aren't everything and this rod is a definite contender.

Gloomis 1263 GL2 or GL3? I have never fished a Loomis but the 1263 comes up often on this site when discussing top pick for a coho/steelhead rod with enough backbone for chum and springs. Going off Gloomis' website the GL3 is quite a bit more expensive and faster action. By the sounds of it the 1264 is more of a medium-heavy and probably has more power than I'm looking for.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: 243Pete on November 27, 2017, 06:11:45 AM
Personally I'd go with a 3113lb seeing as I own one myself along side my 3106mb, between the two I fish the 3113lb 90% of the time as it's fairly light but has enough back bone to fight chums and large springs, just don't expect it to turn over large fish in fast water that easily and there have been times where I have wished that I had my 3106mb instead like fishing some areas above Tamahi. But for medium to slower water areas I would say go with the Sage 3113lb
If you can try to find a brown blank as I really love that graphite-ish look on the blank, green blanks are fine too but to each their own.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: bobby b on November 27, 2017, 08:25:23 AM
X2 on the 3113lb
Caught many big Springs and Chum on mine and never felt too undergunned. Perfect for Coho and Steelhead.

I use both a 5" Campbell and 4 3/8" reel on it ... In fast long flows I use the Campbell ...faster retrieve.

Enjoy yer reel! G'luck on the rod search.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: FishnForFun on November 27, 2017, 12:53:35 PM

A good rod for steelhead and coho, with enough backbone to handle chum and springs. I don't care if it is not a meat stick that will turn the biggest white spring in its tracks. Cost/benefit wise I'd rather fish a lighter rod all day.


G.Loomis IMX 1363-4 CPR 11'4"

Lighter then the sage rods you mentioned in my opinion. You also mentioned reel positioning, so pros/cons of sliding reel seat should be considered. I always put electrical tape over mine after i dropped a reel while fighting a fish, I had somehow knocked it loose. (never happened again after using tape)

From my experience i have discovered that I like being able to change different sized reels on the rod and adjust exactly where i want it to be, The rod weight is reduced because of the seat too.
Rod also packs down well, breaks down into 4 pieces if need be but i generally just treat it like my 2pc rods.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: stsfisher on November 27, 2017, 12:54:44 PM
I have a 3113lb and love it for its power and relative lightness and like others have said it will handle just about anything you throw at it.

I test fished a buddies rainshadow 1263 build a few years ago for a complete season and fell in love with it. I did find it on the light side for some steelhead but would not hesitate to one day get one built for local steelhead and coho fisheries. Once the budget allows it will be my next rod for sure.

Can't go wrong with either rod, but for an all around rod the 3113lb will ensure your not under gunned on all species of fish on any given day.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on November 27, 2017, 04:03:19 PM
Awesome thanks guys!

stsfisher: So by and large you found the 3113LB had a bit more backbone than the Rainshadow 1263?

FishnForFun: I checked out the 1363-4 CPR on Loomis' website. I like the adjustable reel seat, nice touch. My old Lamiglass rod has a sliding reel seat and I found it nice to figure how far up I liked my reel to sit.

The specs of this rod concern me a bit. Med-light power, 8-12 line rated. Sounds a bit light for what I'm looing for; however, I have not fished a Loomis rod and perhaps they are underrated spec wise, much like the Rainshadow blanks.

Do you have an opinion on the Loomis 1263 GL2? Reading several old threads on this site, a lot of guys like this rod as a pin rod or bait caster rod for steelhead/coho but with enough jam to handle springs and chum.

I was contacted by a member on this site who has a 3113LB brown blank for sale. Will definitely have to check it out. Did not say what he wants for it. Emailed him back, awaiting reply.

**question** If one gets a custom rod made, do you just get the reel seat put at the height you typically like? Or should it be placed at a height that balances out the reel that will be used on the rod? I guess a heavy or light butt can be used to help fine tune this?

I love it when a set up balances nicely and the tip is effortless to hold up all day. Hate it when a rod feels tip heavy and you are bagging on your wrist and forearm all day to hold that damn tip up.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: stsfisher on November 27, 2017, 05:23:28 PM

stsfisher: So by and large you found the 3113LB had a bit more backbone than the Rainshadow 1263?

My bad SS, the rod I test drove was actually:  XST1383F Titanium Chrome 11'6" 2 6-12lb. 3/8-3/4oz. 0.424 5.0 F M 3.6oz. Medium Centerpin Rod/Float Rod

I might think this is a better option than the 1263: XST1263F Titanium Chrome 10'6" 2 6-12lb. 3/8-3/4oz. 0.580 4.5 F M 2.8oz. Medium light slide float rod






Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on November 27, 2017, 08:51:20 PM
Ahhh, no problem. Yes by and large the XST 1383F is the more popular pin rod. But I have fished my friend's XST 1263 pin rod and I quite liked it. I didn't find the fast action an issue for casting. He raves about the rod and says he prefers it to his Sage custom rods. Mainly due to the reduced weight, but also the power and sensitivity.

Curious what ya'll think of the Gloomis STR 1263C-BC GL2. It's a 10'6, medium power, fast action, 6-12 line rating, 3/8-3/4 lure rating. This rod has been discussed a lot on this site as an awesome light steelhead/coho rod, with adequate backbone for chum and springs. There is also the 1264 which has a bit more jam.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: hammer on November 27, 2017, 09:34:40 PM
If you can get a Rainshadow BP1264 blank built up (or build yourself) as a centerpin,they are great. The customer service is excellent at Batson Rainshadow (no waiting 4 months for replacement tip). This rod is a composite blank and bends well into the blank which fits a traditional centerpin action while having some backbone to set hooks and fight fish. Russ Goodwin from Styrker rods is where I bought my first one. After fishing it for around 8 years, I see the why it was chosen for pin though I think originally a mooching blank. I have since built up another. Blanks are very reasonable through various suppliers (Valley Custom rods is great to deal with, I think they build up too). Rainshadow/Alps also has some neat components. I have/had a number of centerpin rods 3 are Rainshadows, one Sage, one old school Lamiglass. This blank should not be overlooked.
My 3 cents
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: FishnForFun on November 28, 2017, 10:31:07 PM
FishnForFun: I checked out the 1363-4 CPR on Loomis' website. I like the adjustable reel seat, nice touch. My old Lamiglass rod has a sliding reel seat and I found it nice to figure how far up I liked my reel to sit.

The specs of this rod concern me a bit. Med-light power, 8-12 line rated. Sounds a bit light for what I'm looing for; however, I have not fished a Loomis rod and perhaps they are underrated spec wise, much like the Rainshadow blanks.

I have had no problem with it, while it is on the lighter side it has a surprisingly good amount of turning power for a moderate action rod. Of course its no meatstick, but in my opinion perfect for what i fish.

I love it when a set up balances nicely and the tip is effortless to hold up all day. Hate it when a rod feels tip heavy and you are bagging on your wrist and forearm all day to hold that damn tip up.

One reason why i always pickup this rod combo, feel like i have a sweet spot and the rod is weightless through drifts.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on November 28, 2017, 10:36:24 PM
Thank you FishnForFun, good info :)

stsfisher: curious how you would rate/compare the XST 1383 vs your Sage 3113LB. For example, weight/balance in the hand, back bone, hook setting power, overall winner not considering purchase price and brand loyalty?

Thank you.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: stsfisher on November 29, 2017, 07:52:14 AM
Thank you FishnForFun, good info :)

stsfisher: curious how you would rate/compare the XST 1383 vs your Sage 3113LB. For example, weight/balance in the hand, back bone, hook setting power, overall winner not considering purchase price and brand loyalty?

Thank you.

I think like any rod there are many factors to consider when trying to answer the above. But I will give my experiences with both rods.

Weight/Balance for the XST 1383
 This is a tricky one to answer as weight and balance has a lot to do with the build it self and the choice of reel(s) you are putting on the rod. The rod I used was built with a very short but section and premium components and made for a very light/balanced rod in the hand without a reel attached. However this did change when I put one of my Tournament drifters on the rod. These are not light reels and probably where not a good fit, but I fish them and like them for there durability on the water. So.... weight and balance of the rod that was built in the manner it was, was a great feel but not properly matched when it came down to the reel. Don't get me wrong I did not have an issue with the imbalance and only say it as an observation for you when making a decision.
My 3113lb definitely suits my Drifters better but still find the reel could be lighter to better balance the setup.

Back Bone/ hook setting power
 When fishing the 1383 I really did enjoy the fact it was on the lighter side when discussing back bone, but one fall back was getting used to the lack of hook setting power I was used too with the 3113. The 3113 definitely had a quicker hook set compared to the slow hook up power of the 1383. Something that I think will be an issue with any new to you rod purchase as they all have a different feel or pickup when setting a hook. The 3113lb in my opinion has more backbone or meat in the lower end than the 1383 which is an advantage on larger fish, but for the most part I would not ever consider the 1383 to be too light for our local steelhead/coho fisheries.

Over all winner-
 I probably would not consider the 1383 as my first choice for the all around rod for all salmon/steelhead species. In my opinion it is a bit on the light side when considering Springs and chum but a very enjoyable rod to fish for coho and Steelhead. To me the 3113lb does a much better job of covering all species including springs and chum.
If I didn't already have the 3113lb and I wanted to use 1 rod for all of my pinning needs locally and I only had the 2 choices ( and I had no other experience with other rods of this caliber) I would probably pick up the 3113lb, but if my passion was to target steelhead and coho and you are able to confidently handle a rod I would choose the Rainshadow 1383. I do like both rods, having a 3113 already allows me to think about my next purchase which will be the 1383.  :)

I think the biggest decision to make starts at knowing what kind of experience you want to get out of this rod and what kind of fisherman are you when making that purchase. I would have to think the 3113lb allows for a more novice approach when selecting a custom rod where the 1383 has a more experienced approach. Not even sure if that makes sense? as both rods are definitely not novice rods?


Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Blackrt03 on November 29, 2017, 10:13:52 AM
Stsfisher nice write up
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: kanuckle head on November 29, 2017, 03:52:47 PM
I concur, nice write up stsfisher ........where's the like button ::)
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on November 29, 2017, 05:45:31 PM
Nice write up stsfisher, thanks!

Was in my favorite tackle shop today wiggling some rods, trying my new pin reel on various rods, chatting with the staff. Made some headway on my rod choice.

3106B: wow, beefier than I thought it would be! Looks like it would skip a coho across the surface like a flat rock. Nice rod for when big power is needed but too much for what I'm looking for.

3113LB and 3113M: Liked them both, but not loved them both. With my reel on either rod they felt a bit tip heavy to me. I know this could be compensated for in a custom build with reel seat placement, butt cap weight, and so on. Also, I know it's only 9 inches, but the 11'3 just feels a bit too long. I'd probably get used to it but 10'6 just feels perfect.

Gloomis GL2 1263C-BC. This rod felt VERY nice with my reel on it. Almost weightless. Really really liked the way this rod felt. However it's finished quite cheaply/ugly IMO. The cork and butt look cheaper than the Femwicks, Shimanos, even Okumas! I just was not that impressed with the arse end of the rod.

If I had to buy a rod today, it would have been the Loomis. However for $400ish I can get into a custom Rainshadow, which seems like better bang for my buck.

I know the 1383 is more of a cpin action, but I think I'd be happier with the 1263. For one I'm not a big fan of 11'3, and even less so 11'6. Second from what I have read on this site the 1263 with its faster action would have better hook setting than the 1383, and a bit more power in the butt of the rod. I fished my buddies 1263 built as a pin and I found it quite pleasurable to cast and fish. I only caught a mid sized coho on it, would be nice to test it on a big chum or spring. I trust his opinion and he says it can handle chum and springs, although it does not have the jam of say a 3106B.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Al P. on November 29, 2017, 07:20:12 PM
G Loomis have a proto type 11'3" C pin rod in the works, it's a 2pc a 'real' "3" power. It's an incredible rod.....
Not sure why it's not made it into the market, perhaps not enough demand?
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on December 06, 2017, 10:29:52 AM
Well after much thought I've decided to "pull the pin" on an XST 1263F. 10'6, medium power, 6-12 line rating, fast action. The much loved XST 1383 was definitely considered. However, after wiggling a built one at Dart and Tackle I crossed it off. Surprisingly noodley for it's fast action rating. I think would make a great coho and steelhead rod, but for my preference not enough back bone.

The 1263 is much more what I am looking for. The rod has the identical specs as the 1383, but is lighter by 0.8oz. It feels much different action and power wise compared to the 1383 when you give both a good wiggle. The 1283 with it's thicker butt and a foot shorter feels more like it would "turn heads." I've fished my buddies 1263 pin and found it very light in the hand, no issues casting the fast action. Great hook setting power for such a light rod. I didn't catch anything "big" on it (just a medium coho) however all the reviews of the 1263 on this site say it is more than adequate for springs and chum in the type of water I typically fish.

I don't think you can go wrong with the 1263 or 1383. It all depends on your own cost/benefit checklist.

Looked and wiggled the beefier 1264 (10'6) and 1324 (11'). These are power rods that have a bit more jam than I'm looking for. Would be great for springs in faster water.

I decided against getting a Sage as the 3113LBs and 3113mbs that I put my reel on both felt noticeably tip heavy. The 3106B was way too beefy for my liking, and the 3106LB felt too noodley, although it balanced out quite well with my reel. I love my light Sage CT 2106, but the none of the 3 power pin rods were a great match for what I'm looking for.

Decided against GLoomis as everyone I talked to said if you ever have to make a warranty claim, you will wish you never purchased a Loomis. Also very plain-Jane finishings for such expensive rods! For example the STR 1263C-BC which I quite liked and considered buying retails for $380 +tax. Beside an inexpensive Okuma or Trophy pin rod the Loomis looks out classed. Even my $140 HMX pin rod has a nicer reel seat, nicer cork, and so on. For roughly the same price as this flaccid factory rod I can have a custom build Rainshadow. No brainer! And, from what I am told their warranty is rock solid. Yes I would have to pay to have the rod built again, which would suck, and not a factor with a broken factory rod.

Rainshadow RX8 salmon/steelhead blanks for anyone interested:

http://www.rainshadowrodblanks.com/product-line/rx8-salmonsteelhead-castingspinning/

 
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: VirtualFisher on December 06, 2017, 06:44:41 PM
I bought 2 RX8 blanks of Rainshadow,XFT1324 medium heavy, a while ago from a Custom Tackles shop in Washington on sale for 100 dollars. I left them in my garage and completely forget about them since I got a very good deal from my boss for the sage 3113mb and 3113lb rods.  After reading all the good reviews on the Rainshadow, I am thinking of getting Dave to build me a rod.  The little "made in China" sticker on the butt end has me worried about the quality of the blanks. :)
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on December 07, 2017, 01:42:41 PM
Wow good deal! They have a demo XST 1324 built up in Dart and Tackle. It is a definite beef stick!!! The 10-17 line rating is underrated IMO. More like 12-25 or even 15-30 compared to a Shimano or Fenwick rod. I liked it but a bit heavy and a bit overpowered for what I wanted.
The XST 1263 might be pushing it a bit for bigger springs and chum, but I'm ok with that. I'd rather fish a lighter rod day in/day out and get a more challenging fight out of your average sized salmon or steelhead.
I personally am not bothered that the blank is made in China. I have not found a single unfavorable review on Rainshadow blanks. They are certainty not as "classic" as a Sage, but IMO a bit more evolved graphite technology. And don't get me wrong I still love Sage rods, and I own one I would never sell.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: losos on December 09, 2017, 05:44:56 PM
Spawn Sack
Are you custom building this rod?
If so pictures will be required to be posted here.
Another thing if you could post you experience with the rod after few fights and how it casts. I myself am considering buying Rainshadow blank .
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on December 10, 2017, 09:10:05 AM
The 1263 is being built! Was at the builder's house the other day. He was very patient with me as this is my 1st custom rod and it took a bit of time to decide on the components and thread color. Ended up going a bit higher end than I planned (Alps) on the reel seat and butt box. It just felt and looked so nice. Going to go back to his house when the cork is on a dowel to make sure I like it before it's glued to the blank and sanded down. Not sure if I want a black reel seat or silver, will have to see how it looks with the cork together and reel on the seat. With a bit of luck should have it in my hands by xmas! Will post some pics after I get it.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Blackrt03 on December 10, 2017, 01:30:20 PM
The 1263 is being built! Was at the builder's house the other day. He was very patient with me as this is my 1st custom rod and it took a bit of time to decide on the components and thread color. Ended up going a bit higher end than I planned (Alps) on the reel seat and butt box. It just felt and looked so nice. Going to go back to his house when the cork is on a dowel to make sure I like it before it's glued to the blank and sanded down. Not sure if I want a black reel seat or silver, will have to see how it looks with the cork together and reel on the seat. With a bit of luck should have it in my hands by xmas! Will post some pics after I get it.

Very nice christmas gift
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Blackrt03 on December 10, 2017, 01:32:54 PM
Spawn Sack
Are you custom building this rod?
If so pictures will be required to be posted here.
Another thing if you could post you experience with the rod after few fights and how it casts. I myself am considering buying Rainshadow blank .

x2
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Aki on December 10, 2017, 03:25:38 PM
I am relatively new to fishing with a CP after using level wind reels for over 20 years...my son bought me a John Milner Kingfisher a couple of years ago and this year I sprung for an Islander Steelheader...the John Milner is a bushing reel and the Islander is a bearing reel...both are great...this year I bought and Amundson CP CM2116M+ which is an 11'6" 2 piece 10 to 17lb rod "Engineered and Designed in Canada"...I really like the feel of it and used it to land larger springs, strong chums and also some pinks and a few cohos on various rivers in the Lower Mainland...the rod handled all of the fish well... a buddy of mine used the rod to try it out (he has about 50 years of fishing experience) and really liked it compared to his custom Sage rod that he has had for about 25 years...he thought is was more responsive...he handled a couple of larger fish with it...I haven't tried the G Loomis or Sage rods so don't have a sense of comparison...
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: obie1fish on December 10, 2017, 05:19:32 PM
Does anyone have any experience with G. Loomis? I saw a cp model down in Everett yesterday. Felt pretty good. My brain seized up when I saw the price ($575), so I forgot to check the model number. Nonetheless it's good to hear about options, even if they're expensive.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on December 11, 2017, 11:24:38 AM
Does anyone have any experience with G. Loomis? I saw a cp model down in Everett yesterday. Felt pretty good. My brain seized up when I saw the price ($575), so I forgot to check the model number. Nonetheless it's good to hear about options, even if they're expensive.

I can't offer much help as I have never fished a Loomis. Put my cp reel on a few Loomis rods the other day and quite liked the way the wiggled and felt in the hand. I like light fast action rods and have not doubt I would like fishing any of these rods. However, there is the price. My custom build Rainshadow with mostly high end components will cost me less than many Loomis factory CP rods. And, IMO, the Loomis rods are finished very cheaply for a high-end rods. The rod I was contemplating buying, the GL2 1263, had cork/reel seat/butt box that looked more like a Shimano Convergence. The Okuma and other inexpensive pin rods IMO had nicer fit and finish.
I have also heard Loomis' warranty is abysmal. I've never personally dealt with this, just what ppl tell me.
I hear the Rainshadow warranty is fast and solid, but, since they are all custom rods you will be on the hook $ wise to get the rod rebuilt.

I am pretty careful with my stuff and have many back up rods if I ever had to make a warranty claim, so this is not such a huge deciding factor for me.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: losos on December 11, 2017, 05:29:58 PM
The 1263 is being built! Was at the builder's house the other day. He was very patient with me as this is my 1st custom rod and it took a bit of time to decide on the components and thread color. Ended up going a bit higher end than I planned (Alps) on the reel seat and butt box. It just felt and looked so nice. Going to go back to his house when the cork is on a dowel to make sure I like it before it's glued to the blank and sanded down. Not sure if I want a black reel seat or silver, will have to see how it looks with the cork together and reel on the seat. With a bit of luck should have it in my hands by xmas! Will post some pics after I get it.
I have on my Sage Alps reel seat in gun metal. It is really nice when paired with CP of similar color.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: tworivers on December 12, 2017, 08:08:01 AM
I've got a few high priced CP rods on the rack. Some are Sage, and some are others.

But tucked in the closet, is the one thats grabbed the most in the morning for a day on the water.  It's my Berkley Specialist.
Over the years it has handled anything that was on the end of the line, and was bought for $54.95.
At the time, I thought I paid too much. Geez, it wasn't even on sale. What was I thinking.

Although too late to offer a detailed review as they are no longer in production, some day I should write a book about it's angling adventures. ::)
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: losos on December 12, 2017, 06:30:38 PM
I am relatively new to fishing with a CP after using level wind reels for over 20 years...my son bought me a John Milner Kingfisher a couple of years ago and this year I sprung for an Islander Steelheader...the John Milner is a bushing reel and the Islander is a bearing reel...both are great...this year I bought and Amundson CP CM2116M+ which is an 11'6" 2 piece 10 to 17lb rod "Engineered and Designed in Canada"...I really like the feel of it and used it to land larger springs, strong chums and also some pinks and a few cohos on various rivers in the Lower Mainland...the rod handled all of the fish well... a buddy of mine used the rod to try it out (he has about 50 years of fishing experience) and really liked it compared to his custom Sage rod that he has had for about 25 years...he thought is was more responsive...he handled a couple of larger fish with it...I haven't tried the G Loomis or Sage rods so don't have a sense of comparison...
I have both rods and Sage (3113 mb) sits at home for the most of the time.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: MetalAndFeathers on December 12, 2017, 08:57:11 PM
I also prefer the feel of the amundson over sage 3113mb, it corks on small trout but handles springs with no problem. Only downside is the guide placement where the two pieces connect.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on January 12, 2018, 08:19:05 PM
Alright! Better late than never. Assuming these damn attachments work here are some pics of my new Rainshadow. Absolutely love the rod and the build. Turned out perfect! So light in the hand. Have only had it out twice and have not caught a steelhead on it yet, but it will happen soon when I have more time to get out, I promise.

(http://i1280.photobucket.com/albums/a485/spawnsack/P1020025_zpsufrngbm6.jpg) (http://s1280.photobucket.com/user/spawnsack/media/P1020025_zpsufrngbm6.jpg.html)

(http://i1280.photobucket.com/albums/a485/spawnsack/P1020019_zpsqj35cfdo.jpg) (http://s1280.photobucket.com/user/spawnsack/media/P1020019_zpsqj35cfdo.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Blackrt03 on January 12, 2018, 10:49:22 PM
Nice rod SS... like the cork design. How much does it weight?
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on January 13, 2018, 09:04:50 AM
Just the rod its self built up? I'm not sure, but I could weigh it without the reel if you want to know.

Overall it feels quite light in the hand. Definitely lighter than the 10'6 HMX pin rod I had the reel on before.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Blackrt03 on January 13, 2018, 11:50:34 AM
Just the rod its self built up? I'm not sure, but I could weigh it without the reel if you want to know.

Overall it feels quite light in the hand. Definitely lighter than the 10'6 HMX pin rod I had the reel on before.

Just the rod it self...Thanks
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Spawn Sack on January 16, 2018, 08:52:26 AM
I took the reel off the rod. Carefully laid it across my digital food scale and made sure no parts of the rod were touching my work bench to screw up the scale. Picked the rod up and replaced it several times to make sure I got the same measurement. Each time got the same weight. 9.2 oz for the rod.

In case anyone cares my 4.5 inch Cambell reel weights 12.3 oz spooled up with backing and line. The backing and line weighs more than you'd think! The reel weighs 10.3oz empty, so that's almost 2oz the backing and mono adds.

The reel/rod combo balances unbelievably well in the hand. Feels almost weightless. Not the slightest bit tip heavy. Couldn't be happier with it.
Title: Re: Which new CP rod?
Post by: Dave on January 16, 2018, 02:42:01 PM
Couldn't be happier with it.
Happy to hear that SS,  it's always good to have a satisfied customer  :D