Greg's Rod Picks from IFTD / I-CAST 2016

Best New Freshwater | Best New Saltwater | Best Of Show

It was a great time at the big show this year. Lot's of great new stuff but most of all a great time spent getting to know some people in this industry that work hard and pour their heart and passion into making it better for all, every single day.

The purpose of this article is not for me to pick winners and losers but instead showcase to you (our customers) what I saw that you might be interested in. I love gear and will proudly proclaim that I am a gear junkie. I enjoy spending time always seeking a better fly rod, reel, line, bag, tool...you name it. If it gives me an edge then it's a winner.

Fly Rods

It's pretty clear in the fly rod industry to build a better rod we must reach for higher tech materials and/or resins. This is the theme for 2016 coming from Sage, Winston and G.loomis. Outside of that the only unique contributions comes from building niche products like the OHS from Echo. Ask me if fly rods are improving and my answer will quickly be yes but mostly only in materials. Today's fly rod tapers are pretty well established for the intended use. Whether you need dry fly, nymph, saltwater, predator, two hand or any other technique one can find rod tapers that best suit those techniques and fishing situations. As far as what fly rods we like, it leans heavily on our own casting preferences and personalities. If I were to name one characteristic improving in today's high tech fly rods it is the expanded range that they load thus also expanding on the range that the load is felt. Every fly rod has a sweet spot; today's rods seem to have widened that sweet spot. While this expression rings true for the first three entries ahead it also happens to be the tagline for the Winston AIR..."Widen your sweet spot with the new Winston AIR." Back to the original question..."Are today's fly rods better?" Yes, they are much better, at a wider range of uses, load feel and fit a wider range of casting personalities.

Sage X

The New Sage X took the show. Best New Freshwater, Best New Saltwater and Best of Show.
I read somewhere that this three category win was the first ever for a rod series. The New X delivered exactly what it claimed, faster recovery, deeper loading, crisp tip stop and produced incredible tight loops. Match that with an elegant fit and finish Sage is known for and the X becomes one tough rod to beat. On the pond the X held true to its claims and did it with style and grace. The real test of course is on the water and I am so looking forward to time with these new sticks. Single, Switch and Spey models $895-$1095


R.L. Winston Air

"Widen your sweet spot with the new Winston AIR." 

Super Premium, Ultra-Lightweight Boron III Technology and featuring New SuperSilica Resin System. This new line of 3-6 weight freshwater rods from Winston could have easily taken the freshwater award. A clear cut winner in my eyes!

Winston Air

Paired with legendary finish Winston is so well known for into a high energy progressive action from a new SuperSilica resin creating an incredible accurate presentation all came together into one sweeet little fly rod. Year after year this fly rod company and its wonderful group of people continue to impress me with their relentless forward driving passion in the factory as well as on the stream. To build a rod this good can only come from countless hours on the water. Awesome job Winston!
Four Models 3-6 weights, $945

G.Loomis Asquith

Labeled as a Global All-Water Fly Rod in part due to the cooperative effort between G.Loomis with Chief Rod Designer Steve Rajeff and sister corporation Shimano. The New Asquith starts its life in Japan from some extremely high tech material, then finds its way into the Washington State based G.Loomis plant where the finish work is completed. On the pond the Asquith is light and responsive. It tracks a straight line in near perfect form. Swing weight is impressively light. This is another entry into the show that could have easily taken a win. 4-12 weight and 5 spey models $1000-$1400

Scott Flex Series

Scott Flex Series

The New Flex is a mid price point rod designed to offer fast performance with a fine tuned flex and recovery. It did not disappoint. The flex displayed a great amount of power while retaining a good balance of feel. The rod blank finish is classic to Scott natural and the components are premium all coming together into a aesthetically pleasing fly rod.  This is a great American made stick for a price that isn't out of the ball park. 3-8 weights, $475

Redington Hydrogen Trout Spey

Hydrogen Trout Spey

The Hydrogen series of single hand trout rods came out last year and in that time this lightweight rod has left quite the impression. When I heard Hydrogen was to expand into trout spey for 2017, I instantly knew this would be a home run. Now that I have seen and cast the new trout spey model I can honestly say it's out of the park. The med-fast action allows for a deeper load into the blank for great feel while the butt provides great power both for scandi  tight loops and/or skagit power. The downlocking skeletonized reel seat helps reduce the weight and looks great. Shown here with the new Redington Rise Fly Reel. 2-4 weight, $349.95

Predator

Redington Predator

Always a favorite the newly update Predator gets some added horsepower to tackle the whole chickens and bunnies. Fresh or Salt, wherever Predators Roam! 5-12 weights with additional specialized bass and pike/musky models, $299.95


Redington Vice

Redington Vice

Classically Styled Fast Action full range of rods from fresh to salt. The Vice replaces the aging Voyant series of Redington Fly Rods. Besides a full on color face lift the New Vice receives advancements in the use of multi modulus carbon fibers that greatly enhances control, recovery and accuracy. Add saltwater grade components, black anodized snake guides and a lazer etched reel seat indicating rod weight and the package comes together to form a really sweet rod.
3-9 weights, $199.95



Echo Bad Ass Glass
If you follow the fiberglass crowd you will naturally gravitate to the BAG (Bad Ass Glass) Series of rods.

Bad Ass Glass

I admit they are pretty cool looking but really Tarpon on Glass?! But that's the idea behind this big heavy glass stick. Bonefish, Steelhead, Permit, Tarpon. Get your groove on glass fans!
8-12 weights, $274.99

Echo OHS (One Hand Spey)
My real interest coming from the Mr.Tim Rajeff is the new Echo OHS (One Hand Spey).

Measuring in at 10'4" with 6-8 weights. My prediction for this show was that someone is going to show up with a single handed spey rod...Ding, Ding, Ding...we have a winner! While I was hoping for a trout model too, it's a start. I got to spend a little time on the pond with the 7 weight equipped with the new Airflo Skagit Scout head and it HUK'D!

OHS spey handle

A unique feature of the OHS is it comes with two different fighting butts. One is normal standard nubby and the spey version is 2.5"providing you something to underhand some leverage with. 6-8 weights, $474.99

More Echo's
Several other new models coming out of the Echo camp. EPR is rated "Stupid Fast" intended for salt fanatics chasing fins that weigh more than you do. The New DRY is pretty obvious. Boost Reach designed for beach casters both east and west. And the 8 piece trip designed for the backpacking crowd. We'll have more on these when they arrive.


Take Survey - 2017 New Fly Rods - What New Rods have your interest?

This one question survey let's you tell us what fly rods you are curious about. Check one or as many as you want and if your fly rod of interest is not listed use the write-in spot. 

Complete List of Show Winners

Best of Show	Sage	X 590
Fly Rod: Freshwater	Sage	X 590
Fly Rod: Saltwater	Sage	X 890
Reel: Freshwater	Ross Reels	Colorado LT
Reel: Saltwater	Abel Reels	SDS
Fly Line: Freshwater	RIO Products	InTouch Big Nasty
Fly Line: Saltwater	RIO Products	Winter Redfish
Leader / Tippet	RIO Products	RIO Saltwater Mono
Fly Pattern: Freshwater	Aqua Flies, LLC	Stu Foxall’s PrawnTruder
Fly Pattern: Saltwater	Umpqua Feather Merchants	Contraband Crab, Chicone
Fly Box / Storage System	Tacky Fly Fishing	Tacky Dry Fly Box
Fly Tying Materials / Equipment	Freestone Designs	The Go Box
Men’s Waders	Simms Fishing Products	Headwater Pro Waders
Women’s Waders	Hodgeman	Women’s H4 Wader
Wading Boots	Simms Fishing Products	Rip Rap Shoe Felt
Check Pack / Vest	Simms Fishing Products	G4 Pro Sling Pack
Luggage	Umpqua Feather Merchants	ZeroSweep Cooler-Gater
Men’s Outerwear	Patagonia	Minimalist Wading Jacket
Men’s General Apparel	Simms Fishing Products	Intruder BiComp L/S Shirt
Women’s Outerwear	Patagonia	Women’s River Salt Jacket
Women’s General Apparel	Simms Fishing Products	Women’s Rip Rap Sandal
Youth Product	Umpqua Feather Merchants	ZS Wader Chest Pack
Accessories (under $100)	Orvis	U.S.-Made Aluminum Nipper
Eco-friendly Product	Fishpond	Thunderhead Duffel
Boat / Personal Watercraft	Outcast Sporting Gear	Fish Cat 5 Mat
Book	Angler’s Book Supply	Fusion Fly Tying
DVD	RIO Products	Favorite Fly-Fishing Knots
Gift Items (under $100)	Umpqua Feather Merchants	ZS Guide Wader Belt
P.O.S. / Booking Software	The Outfitter Pro	Online Booking System

Coming soon I will share my Top Reel Picks...

Greg Darling 

Gorge Fly Shop Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Read more of Greg's Post

Sage SALT - An Interview with George Cook

Gorge Fly Shop Owner Travis Duddles getting the insight from Sage's Chief rod designer Jerry Siem

I must admit while holding the new Sage SALT at the 2014 IFTD show I couldn't help feeling a little remorse for the inevitable end days of the exceptional Xi3. I became quite the fan over its course of reign. But from my first encounter with the arrow shooting ability of Konnectic Technology in the Sage ONE I knew the days were numbered for the vulnerable Xi3. This Konnectic technology would go hand in hand in salt angling were accuracy is more often than not the deciding factor in a days success.

We answer a lot of questions about saltwater rods and listen to many different opinions about what a saltwater rod should be. The action of a saltwater rod is hard to nail down to the perfect equation because what your rod needs to be is what fits at that moment in time when your target has been acquired.

While I have my opinions of what a saltwater rod should be and I'm also more than impressed with the new Sage SALT I want to turn the attention of this subject to a much more credible source than myself. George Cook (Northwest Sage Representative and Fly Fishing Expert) helps us answer some very important questions about saltwater rods and the new Sage SALT.

George what makes a saltwater fly rod a saltwater ready fly rod?

Action: To be sure, the action truly matters folks. In this to become the needed, trusted tool the rod action has to be such that it will perform at all ranges and do so with both touch, line speed and authority. It is not an easy task to pull all 3 of these aspects together but Rod Design Guru Jerry Siem has indeed done so with the New SAGE SALT Series.

Components: Salt Specific, be it guides, reel seats . Jerry (Siem) was ultra crafty on this series in that he placed the specific Rod Weight Number (Example: 890-4 would show the number 8) on the TOP of The REEL SEAT for quick, easy Rod I.D. no more looking upside down to spot your stick, now just shout out….. Hand me the 8 weight Captain!

Strength: This is where the Jerry Siem magic really shows. The delicate balance of providing the needed-requisite factors of Blank Strength/Fighting Power/Cast-A-Bility, miss just one here and we have problems that we get you somewhere along in the brine. Sage has a long history (1989 On ward) of unique, laser focused Saltwater Specific Rods dating back to the original RPL-X which brought a true saltwater rod to the market and boy was it a welcome hit as I worked in house back then and recall the dealer reaction that fall at the Fly Tackle Dealer Show, amazing times that have lead to this wonderful rod today, the New SAGE SALT.

George do salt rods make good freshwater rods…if so what techniques?

Streamer: No doubt there is crossover here. My first run at it with the New SALT was back to back 4 day excursions to the Bahamas for Bonefish immediately followed by a jaunt into the low country of South Carolina for Largemouth Bass. I had a 790-4 SALT and it was fantastic in both endeavors. Both fisheries required touch, accuracy and at times line speed with an array of fly types and sizes. Sitting here on November 6th I could easily see that same 790-4 at work on the Yellowstone as a Fall “Brown Town” streamer stick. I think by this time next year we will have witnessed the SALT conquer many a fishery be it Big Trout, Alaska Salmon, Argentine Freshwater Dorado and many others .

George is the Sage SALT just a Sage Method dressed differently? 

Now Greg, it’s election time here in November and the nation like these rods has both Blue and Red districts and just like these two rod series they are indeed VERY DIFFERENT.

George many fisherman think that the SALT will just be a Method in disguise…what makes the Salt different? 

Naw buddy, different animals! While both series feature SAGE’s exclusive and wicked Konnetic Technologies The METHOD Series are the supped up, king pin tools of the all out line speed enthusiast. I always tell people that the METHOD is not for everybody but all angler’s at some point, somewhere will wish for one as it will be a difference maker in challenging conditions be it fresh or salt. The SALT is way different in that it is a tool that covers a mammoth gamut of potential scenario’s. A great example is that of Bonefishing where in the course of a single days fishing can face the angler with many different casting challenges. For instance, first thing in the AM you may have a longer (60’+) cast in calm like conditions put you to task. 3 Hours later, brisk wind and a fish sighted close say sub 45’ that suddenly is a mere 25’ away and in your lap. In order to own the day in these situations you will need all of the following performance attributes….Touch and accuracy, both near and far, line speed to cut that pesky wind, true feel for the right number of false cast needed and the moment of truth in that “Presentation” lay down, get it done cast. Furthermore you may well need the ability to pick up and take that second shot at that fish that as luck often has it did something other than ideal . The other aspect that I’d throw out there is this Greg….when you get a given match up of rod and line there is a casting-fishing sense that the Magic Rod Fiery has sprinkled the oh so lovely perfect star dust upon you and when this feeling is upon an angler no matter the situation, the location, the weather that Angler is blessed with a sense of confidence that will have his or her head in the game at the highest level.

George what lines do the SALT rods favor? 

Line weight marked on reel seat

In the Bonefish Theater (7 thru 9 Weight equation) I love RIO’s General Purpose Tropical Salt Water Line. The RIO Bonefish Quickshooter is a straight up get it done performer for many an angler who steps to the plate wading or from a boat. The RIO Redfish line is a great call for that increasingly popular pursuit. The New Award Winning RIO Permit Line will be an important cog in that pursuit and is dead on in that all important 9-10 weight rod range. Tarpon chasers will love the RIO Tarpon Quickshooter as it simply delivers when your guide says CAST. Streamer slingers will enjoy the Outbound Short series for banging the banks and the Puget Sound and Alaskan beach crowds will throw Mega far with RIO’s Outbound Coldwater Floater or Intermediate lines (Outbound Coldwater being the original 37’.5 Outbound line that is an amazing distance tool).

George how will Konnectic technology help our saltwater fishing?

Accuracy: Yes Accuracy, nothing cast straighter than rods engineered with the Konnetic technology format (ONE/METHOD and SALT) . Point and shoot, done deal, get ready for fish porn photo’s.

George - Novice, Intermediate or Pro – where does the Sage SALT fit in? 

Glad you asked…..this might be the most beautiful aspect of all Greg in that the Sage SALT series with it unique Moderated action is simply good to go with all levels of casters. In fact during my fall run of introductions I saw in many instances folks who straight up cast the SALT better than anything else that was placed in their casting paws some of these casters needed help and this action brought it their way in spades. No body really gets enough water time and even less pure practice casting time. I saw novice casters who would go from “Hope” which isn't a strategy by the way to “In The Game” with the 790-4 and 890-4 SALT, combined with RIO’s Bonefish Quickshooter and everyone is a plane ticket away form a holiday to remember!

Thank you George...I agree with you that this rod is very different than any other saltwater rod I've had experience with. It's truly impressive how the Konnectic technology can instantly improve your cast and was also surprised at how well this new rod cast short (something that I have struggled with in the past).

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

Sage SALT - 2014 IFTD Show (Casting Pond)

Greg Darling 

Gorge Fly Shop Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Viva Las Orlando: 2014 IFTD / I-CAST Mega Show

2014 I-CAST / IFTD Show

I-CAST / IFTD - The World's Largest Fishing Show!

Last year's I-CAST / IFTD (the fishing show) was held in Las Vegas. This year we are fortunate to endure Orlando, Florida's - hurricane season, thunderstorms, hot and muggy weather, kids running rampet all in the name of... science? Maybe not quite, but its gonna be interesting. A few Gorge Fly Shop Team Members will have to sacrifice a week of their time to see what's new and improved and worthy to report back to you. Watch our Facebook and Twitter for on the showroom floor accounts of what we happen to find. Be sure to follow our blog and Youtube page for any subsequent posts or videos in the following months.

RIO's InTouch Lines - Get "In-Touch" with the other end of your fly line

It's middle July and I-CAST/IFTD mega show is just a week away. This is where all the dealers go to check out all that is new and improved for the upcoming 2015 season. We'll cast rods and handle reels and catch up on all the latest gear designed to catch more fish (or more fisherman). 

A product that I have watched steadily improve over the last few years is fly lines. I just received product information sheets of the new additions to the Rio InTouch series of lines and I think we all have something to cheer about. 

Simms G4 Boa Boots VS. Simms G3 Guide Boots

“Decisions, decisions…which wading boot should I buy?”

Products: Simms G4 Boa Boots and Simms G3 Guide Boots

So, you’re in the market for a new pair of wading boots. You walk into the Gorge Fly Shop or sit down and log onto the Gorge Fly Shops website (www.gorgeflyshop.com) and you’re either staring at the back wall with all the latest boots on display or you’re looking at multiple pages of wading boot options on your display screen. Either way, if you’re anything like me when my wife sends me to the supermarket for children’s cold medicine and I stand in the isle looking like a deer caught in the headlights, drool dripping out of one side of my mouth, right eye twitching all the while trying to figure out what it is exactly that she wanted. Maybe just maybe this review can help you make a sound decision. In my opinion sometimes we have too many choices. The beautiful thing, in my opinion, is there’s never been a better time to buy top quality wading boots with the latest and greatest in state of the art materials. I had the pleasure of testing out the New Simms G4 Boa Boot and the New Simms G3 Guide Boots…and here is my review…

The New - Award winning Simms G4 Boa Boot is Space Age…Darth Vader would have worn these if he could!

THE G4 BOA BOOT: Description

According to: Simms, in their words: Step into Simms’ G4 Boa® Boot and elevate your fishing experience thanks to an asymmetrical Boa® system that delivers an articulated, secure fit over and across the instep. Underneath the G4 chassis you’ll find an advanced RiverTread™ platform that minimizes rigid materials in exchange for maximized proprioception—your ability to feel and adapt to an ever-changing underfoot environment. In addition, Vibram® Idrogrip outsoles provide great grip across slick underwater obstacles via multi-directional lugs—compatible with all Simms’ AlumiBite™ and HardBite™ cleats and studs. Inside the boot is an environment hardwired for warmth and comfort, featuring a lined neoprene finish, cushioned where you need it most and ultra-smooth for easy on/off performance.

FEATURES

• Simms NEW RiverTread™ Platform for guide-ready wading performance, support & traction
• Waterproof PU-coated leather & TPU-coated textile upper for maximum abrasion-resistance & durability
• Fully-lined with neoprene for wading warmth, cushioning & easy-on/easy-off 
• Boa® Closure System for easy-on/easy-off & a precision, on-demand fit
• Also see the G4 Boa® Replacement Kit 
• MATERIAL TECH: A waterproof PU-coated leather & TPU-coated textile upper with an asymmetrical Boa® Closure System & full neoprene lining; Built on the Simms RiverTread™ Platform with a 4.0mm Vibram® Idrogrip rubber outsole

• APPROX. PAIR WEIGHT (size 10): 57.6 oz.
• SIZES: 07-14, whole sizes, EEE width
• PRICE TAG: $239.95
• PRICE TAG TO COMPLETE YOUR SYSTEM, INCLUDING BOA REPAIR KIT, AND TWO BOXES OF ALUMABITE CLEATS: $296.80

MY TAKE ON THE G4 BOA BOOT:

Of the two boots I tested, I first tried the G4 Boa Boot. I fished them pretty hard for nearly three weeks. This was the first time I had ever tried a Boa style wading boot. I’ve always liked the idea of the Boa system but I’m old school enough to be a bit stubborn and stick with shoe laces. I was excited to try something new. Everything about the G4 Boa Boot screams technology. Space age technology I would say. The Simms G4 Boa Boot has all the latest in materials and features (see features list above).

All I can say about these boots is that, in nearly every area of concern that I would have in a wading boot, it excelled, they were awesome. I had lots of toe room, which helps keep your feet warm, and the NEW RiverTread™ Platform definitely was noticeably more comfortable than any other sole on any other wading boot that I have ever used! They were light while walking and wading, which is important to a man who has had five knee surgeries. I love the little gravel guard clip near the toe which secures your gravel guard around the top of the boot. I love the sole pattern which includes spots for your Alumabite Cleats. It takes the guess work out of where you should put the studs (see photo below with studs). I love the look of the boots. You know that that’s important to the fish…

Your boots will be one of the last things they see as you let em go.

Now, I said nearly every area of concern they excelled. So, what didn’t I like about the Simms G4 Boa Boot you ask. Well, honestly it was the tightening of the Boa System. I struggled with getting the fit I wanted to get. If I started to crank on the Boa gear knob, I couldn’t get the toe area snug before the area above my ankle was too tight and it would cut my circulation off in my feet. When your circulation is impeded your feet will become very cold very quickly while wading. I tried to pull on the Boa cable near the toes and tighten the Boa crank as I pulled on the cable and I still couldn’t get the toe area snug before the area above my ankle was too tight. Trying to pull on the cable as I tightened the Boa crank began to defeat its purpose of being quick and easy and having an on demand fit, to being cumbersome and a pain in the-you- know- what.

Last thing is that you really need to carry a Boa Repair Kit. Unlike traditional shoe string systems, if you snap a string where you can just tie a square not in the shoe string and get back to fishing, with the Boa system, if they break your outta luck. Now the system does have a lifetime warranty and they do stand behind it, but if you’re in the middle of a trip and snap a cable and you’re without the repair kit, well let’s just say you’re not going to be none too happy.

BOTTOM LINE ON THE SIMMS G4 BOA BOOTS:

I don’t want to trash the boots because everything else about them was awesome. They didn’t win the 2014 New Product Showcase Award for nothing. I wish they made this boot with a shoe lace system. I’d buy it in a heartbeat! I talked to a few guys who have the G4 Boa boot and they absolutely love them. They love everything about them. My research revealed that if you’re a smaller footed person, say less than a size 12, the Simms G4 Boa Boot in all areas and cases excelled. In other words, the boot fit and performed as they said it would. If you happen to have larger feet, size 12 and above, then you might take a longer, harder look at the New Simms G3 Guide boot instead. Now, I am not a guy with thick ankles. As a matter of fact, for my size, at 6’5”, 250 pounds and a size 14 wading boot, I have pretty skinny ankles.

All in all, I would buy the boot in a New York second, if I could try them on and everything felt good. In other words if you can tighten the Boa System to the point it is comfortable to you and your foot. Be sure when you purchase the Simms G4 Boa Boot that you also buy the G4 Boa Repair Kit and two boxes of Alumabite Cleats, there’s 10 to a pack and you will need two packs to stud both boots (see photo below of my G3 Guide Boots with studs). The Alumabite Cleats are super sticky while wading and I prefer them over the other types of studs, even though they wear out quicker because they’re aluminum and aluminum is softer than the other types. Have you ever seen an aluminum drift boat stuck on a gravel bar? Have you ever tried to pull or push said drift boat from the said gravel bar? Enough said. Now on to the Simms G3 Guide Boot…

The New Simms G3 Guide Boot is much lighter than the older discontinued model.

THE G3 GUIDE BOOT: 

According to: Simms, in their words: Description Central Montana is home to cowboys, roughnecks, and fly fishers, all with three defining traits—spurs, steel toes, and Simms. For those occupying the latter category, Simms’ G3 Guides™ raise the bar with a RiverTread™ platform bolstered by proprioception, which minimizes rigid underfoot materials in order to enhance feel whether on the trail or in the water. The felt G3 combines all day wading comfort with the angler-appreciated underwater traction of a 12mm felt outsole, compatible with all Simms’ AlumiBite™ and HardBite™ cleats and studs. Additional features include TPU molded heel clips that lock in fit, while the neoprene lining stacks cushioning where it counts, keeping feet warm and delivering easy on/off performance.

FEATURES

• A 12mm felt outsole version of the Guide Boot for a lighter, yet more durable balance of wet trail & all-day wading 
• Simms NEW RiverTread™ platform for guide-ready wading comfort, support & traction 
• TPU molded heel clip for positive heel fit & hiking security 
• Partially-lined with neoprene for wading warmth, cushioning & easy-on/easy-off 
• MATERIAL TECH: Waterproof Nubuck leather & TPU-coated textile upper, RiverTread™ platform/12mm Felt outsole

• APPROX. PAIR WEIGHT (size 10): 60.8 oz.
• SIZES: 07-14, whole sizes, EEE width
• PRICE TAG: $199.95
• PRICE TAG TO COMPLETE YOUR SYSTEM, INCLUDING TWO BOXES OF ALUMABITE CLEATS: $243.85

MY TAKE ON THE SIMMS G3 GUIDE BOOT:

I didn’t start out nor did I intend this to be a Dual Boot Review, it’s just how it ended up and I hope that it helps you make the right decision when buying a premium wading boot. Having owned a pair of the old, discontinued G3 Guide Boots and using them for a number of years before retiring them, the first thing I want to say about the NEW SIMMS G3 GUIDE BOOTS is that they are incredibly lighter than the older model. I kid you not, without putting them on a scale and actually weighing them, I’d say they feel at least 25% lighter if not more. Anyone who has owned a pair of the old G3 Guide Boots knows that, although durable, it seemed like they came with ankle weights inside them. They were heavy!

After getting the New Simms G3 Guide Boots all studded up and ready for the testing, I was immediately encouraged by the fit and feel of the boot. As I said earlier, I am a fan of the shoe lace system. To me it just seems easier and dare I say quicker to lace up and go. Just like anything though, laces have their drawbacks. A few being, they get dirty, and they break to name a few. But they also have their pluses, which include a steady snug fit throughout the boot, and if they break, just tie a square knot in them and go about your business.

With the incredible Simms NEW RiverTread™ platform the Simms G3 Guide Boot as well as the G4 Boa Boot both had the most comfortable wading sole I have ever used. I seriously could tell the difference right away while wading. I could feel the sole flex and fit and form around rocks as I would wade. I thought about how an Octopus’s suction cups grab as the slither along the ocean bottom. As I said earlier, I have had five knee surgeries and because of that if I stand too long on anything that is too rigid, my knees begin to scream at me and let me know exactly how they feel.

With the New Simms G3 Guide Boot, I was able to achieve the fit and feel that I look for in a wading boot. A hint for those who may not know this… while lacing up your wading boots using a shoe lace system, cross the laces and pull them snug as you lace up. In other words you should have the left side of the lace in your right hand and your right side of the lace in your left hand. This is way easier, and more efficient in lacing up.

I love the ankle support of both the G4 Boa Boot and the G3 Guide Boot. This is especially beneficial if you have ankle problems and need the extra support. Every feature (listed above) performed as they said it would. To date, these are the most comfortable wading boots I’ve owned. The only difference when I say this between the G4 Boa Boot and the G3 Guide Boot as far as fit goes was the lacing system. The G4 Boa Boot was just as comfortable as the G3 other than the top part of the Boa system being too tight at the top and too loose in the toe area. The comfort of the New Simms G3 Guide Boot is stellar. For a guy like me, they are a perfect match.

My G3 Guide boots ready for the testing…complete with AlumiBite™ studs.

BOTTOM LINE ON COMPAREING THE NEW G4 BOA BOOTS TO THE NEW SIMMS G3 GUIDE BOOTS:

I’ll start with this, either way you choose, you can’t lose. If you want the space age New Simms G4 Boa Boot, try them on before buying them. Get your foot in there and crank down the Boa system and if they feel good, rock ‘em. If they don’t, and they fit you like they fit me, put them back on the display rack and pick up the New Simms G3 Guide Boot and rock them.

I’ll end with this, if you’re shopping online with the Gorge Fly Shop (gorgeflyshop.com) and you can’t just stroll in and try them on, let me say this and hope it helps you make the right decision on which boot you should get. If you’re a size 12 or smaller and want the G4 Boa Boot, go for it. You will probably be happy that you did. If you are a size 12 or larger, go with the New G3 Guide Boot and have peace of mind knowing that you’ve made the right choice. I’ll end with this. The only way you’ll make a bad decision is if you don’t get one or the other. Are they expensive? Yes! Are they worth it? Yes! Are you gonna hide the credit card receipt from your better half? Yes! Okay…I’m just playin now. I’ll stop…

"There will be days when the fishing is better than one's most optimistic forecast, others when it is far worse. Either is gain over just staying home." - Roderick Haig-Brown

By John Garrett – Gorge Fly Shop

March 22, 2014

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

NEW: Tibor Signature 5/6 Fly Reels

For 2014 Tibor has added to the popular Signature Series line. A new 5/6 weight reel that is "Saltwater Tough and Freshwater Light" According to this highly respectable reel company. At the heart of the 5/6 is the same legendary sealed silky smooth micro grain cork drag system also found in the larger sizes in the Signature Series reels.

Water proof seal

Founder and Fly Fisherman Ted Juracsik explains the sealed drag system of his Signature reels. An innovative sealed drag system that’s waterproof, self-maintaining and still the strongest in the industry. A drag system that constantly applies seal pressure while in free spool so the reel will never overrun while stripping line. Legendary silky smooth micro grain cork that is constantly lubricated. On the rare occasion that maintenance is necessary, the system can be easily disassembled, yet still remain under warranty – unlike many other sealed drag reels currently on the market.

Ted Juracsik explains the internal workings

Like all Tibor Signature reels the 5/6 comes in the standard colors of Jet Black, Champagne Gold and Royal Blue and is also available in custom colors of Crimson, Moss Green and Graphite Grey for an additional charge. The additional charge is base on the retail price of the reel plus 10%.

Simms Headwaters Large Sling Pack review

Simms Headwaters Large Sling Pack

Ask me if one perfect pack exist. I can answer that question in one word; NO! That’s an easy answer because the right pack is determined by your needs at that moment in time of use. Example; If it is summer and you plan on being out all day hiking in the sunshine than hydration will play a key importance to your function…for this I like a full-on backpack with hydration bladder, But that’s a bit bulky for the evening run and gun to your honey hole were you will only need some of your favorite flies and tippet. The packs I would equip myself for these two situations are obviously quite different. I’m not about to go into what I think you should use each type of pack for or what pack is best for you. It’s a personal choice and only you know what your needs is on your adventures. 

My idea of a perfect pack no matter what size or style may be is a pack that stays organized and items do not become lost. A pack has to be comfortable so that it’s forgotten while wearing it. It has to have enough flash to easily be seen for the times you do remove it so as to not get forgotten and left behind. Easy access to the tools you need is quite important. I’m sure we could brainstorm many more requirements of a great pack but I would like to get on with a new pack that has me pretty excited.

I have been slinging waist packs over my shoulder for years before any company ever named a pack a “Sling Pack”. But waist packs or chest packs thrown over the shoulder never quite met my needs and wearing a waist pack or a chest pack just always seemed to be in my way. Especially now that I Two Hand cast so much of the time, a chest pack is absolutely out of the question. On longer days I normally go with a backpack for the hydration capabilities enough space for lunch and all my needed gear. They do have the disadvantage of having to remove it to get to things but I can attach my tools and carry a fly box in my wader pocket for the basic needs.

Simms Headwaters Sling Pack in Lead Color

What I needed was a pack for all those other times such as short morning or evening adventures, and day adventures that don’t take me too far away from the truck and winter adventures where I don’t need to carry more than a 20 oz bottle of water or small thermos of coffee but still roomy enough to stuff a layer in it for the hike out or pack a PB&J for some stream-side energy. I also like to make sure I’m equipped with a good variety of flies and plenty of leaders, tips and tippet. Tools are a major importance to me. They need to always be at reach.

The Simms Headwaters Sling pack has all these needs covered and I can comfortably wear it all day and honestly forget about it being on my back. When I need something it slings around easily and the pockets are upright directly in front of you. The tools are also right at reach. You can equip it with tools on the pack and on the strap also so you always have tools were you need them no matter where the pack is. I really like the clamp holders and so far the magnets have been strong enough to keep them secure. Another great feature is the hideaways for the accessory straps. Tuck the rod and waist straps when not in use and you have no loose straps dangling around. I quickly figured out to use the back pocket (the one closet to your body) for larger items like a bottle of water and it’s perfect to stuff a fleece layer in when things warm up. The large front pocket holds my extra flies and leaders and the outermost pocket is perfect for the flies and tippet that I am currently using. The inside of this pocket is compatible with Simms hook and loop items such as the Simms Fly Patch. I have one of these stuck to the inside of that pocket to hang my wet flies to dry. The removable hook and loop floatant and tippet-spool retainers are also a nice feature. Just stick them on the outside of the pack while using them or stash them away when you’re not using them.

Simms Headwaters Sling Pack (smaller version)

Simms also makes the Headwaters Sling pack in a smaller version pictured here to the right shown in the Fury Orange color.

I am angler that likes to lean toward the minimalist approach. The large Headwaters Sling pack has a roomy 15 liter capacity but it feels compact, comfortable to wear all day and gives me the security of knowing I have what I need for any situation I may encounter. I've never had a pack that I liked as much as the Headwaters Sling Pack.

Greg Darling

Gorge Fly Shop 
Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

Features and Specs - 

• Lightweight pack for a full day on the water – pack in all your gear & fish on the go 
• 2 large zippered compartments with stretch mesh pockets 
• Quick-access stash pocket beneath the waistband allows easy access without slinging pack all the way around 
• Compression molded front pocket creates a fold-down workspace 
• Removable hook & loop floatant holder & tippet-spool retainer 
• FABRIC TECH: 420 Denier Abrasion resistant fabric with DWR 
• APPROX. WEIGHT: 32 oz 
• CAPACITY: 15 liters, 915.36 cubic in. 
• DIMENSIONS: 20” x 14” x 8”

Simms Representative Eric Neufeld demonstrates the functionality of the New Simms Headwaters Sling Pack at the 2013 I-CAST / IFTD Show in Las Vegas

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Sage Method Rod Series (NEW 2013)

Sage Method - New content - 12/26/2013

As promised I vowed to work with the Sage Method in order to get a true feel of this red, high caliber stick beyond what I can get from the casting pond at a show. Believe it or not color has some deciding factor with fly rods today. Many would just be fine if all fly rods are green and that’s the way it should be...Huh?

I've never been one to follow tradition and speaking for myself if I am not exploring or discovering something new then I would have hung the sport up a long time ago. Nothing wrong with traditions and I respect most all fly fishing traditions but keep in mind all traditions started out as one man's daring ability to look outside the norm and make his own discovery, was willing to share it and over course of time became tradition.

Red is the color of the Sage Method and I like it! Sage calls is Magma Red but I think of it as Magnum Red as in High Caliber. If Method was a concert you bet it would be a rock concert and just like a fine Italian Sport car the color has to be RED! If it fits wear it!

The red color sets off the Method as bold and powerful and creates a statement for which this rod needs to live up to. My simple answer is yes! The Method lives up to its look. But we know it’s not that simple. What makes a great rod today is a question that undoubtedly can be debated for years with no clear answer ever awarded. Sounds like a congressional debate is in place. Well step aside Green rod congress as I deliver your veto! This is my article and these are my opinions and I get to choose whether the Method is worthy to be adorned in Magnum Caliber, Italian Sport Car,or Rock and Roll Red.

A great fly rod is a simple desire but a complicated quest. Give me more power, more accuracy, more distance, more feel and make it more comfortable for me to cast. Each and every new fly rod that comes along we look for more of all of this. It’s a careful balance of precision and compromise. In the past more power came with the sacrifice of less feel. Rods got so stiff that the rated line size had trouble loading the rod. So we up line sizes in order to get the rods to load which in turn slowed down the rod. Sure these extra fast rods were very capable of great line speeds but the average caster really struggled to time the load mostly due to lack of feel. In the recent years I believe great strides have been made to create really fast fly rods that load with the appropriate line size and provide much greater feel than their predecessors.

If you like fast action rods than you will love a Sage Method but hold on a minute...Lets say you don’t like fast action rods….I want you fellow fly fishers to go down to your local fly shop and cast a Method. I know on my first cast I was truly surprised how well the rod loaded and how little effort it took to send my line shooting on the forward cast.

I expected POWER but had no idea how GRACEFUL it could be!

All aforementioned attributes of the Method truly puts this rod into High Caliber class but there is one more characteristic I need to bring forth. The Sage Method, (I also have recognized this in the Sage One) possess a very comfortable swing rate. I not going to even pretend I understand how this works instead I purely go by the feel of the cast. What I noticed with these new Sage fly rods is they feel very comfortable in hand and while in a casting stroke.

The best way I can define the new Sage is Power with Grace!

7/24/2013
Sage Method

Earlier this year you heard me talk about the Sage One in my article NRX vs. One. The ONE is an awesome casting rod with a very intuitive feel of stability with Sage’s Proprietary Konnetic Technology. But I said it in the article that The One is not a fast rod and I suspect we’ll see Konnetic Technology in the future refinements of faster action rod categories such as the TCX.

Welcome in the NEW Sage Method.

Sage Method - Magma Red

The Sage Method reaches deep into the fast action rod category and delivers high line speed and tight loops coupled with the greater feel and accuracy found with the Konnetic Technology; A truly welcome edition for experienced casters and demanding salt anglers.

I got my hands on the New Method at this year’s I-Cast/IFTD Show. I like the Magma Red color of this rod and the reel seat expresses quality and strength. It’s light in hand and like The One you won’t believe how thin the shafts are on these rods.

What I couldn’t wait to find out is would this fast action Method live up to the Konnetic technology accuracy that the Sage One excels in! For me the highlight of the Sage One has always been in its ability to track straight thus improving my level of accuracy. The question I have is can this faster version still retain this impressive ability to stabilize your fly line for easier casting and greater distance accuracy?

Greg Darling | Gorge Fly Shop - IFTD Casting Pond

After some time on the pond I am happy to report that Konnetic technology is alive in the Method. The Method feels considerably faster than The One but yet has a much improved feel over the predecessor TCX. It is fast and not for everyone but for those who wish their One to have more, then here is your answer. I look forward to spending more time with these rods and really tune into the feel and timing to see what it is capable of achieving. I was casting the Rio Grand Fly line and you would want this line or the salt equivalent like a Rio Bonefish Quickshooter. The Method should also be happy with a Rio Outbound Fly Line.

Impressions

I like this rod for many reasons. The bold red color, great fit and finish, Konnetic Technology and its fast action but what’s with the name “Method”?! Does it come with an instruction manual? We understood the meaning of Sage One and Circa is a good fit for the traditional feeling rod it belongs to but what is the meaning behind “Method”? Kind of feels like I have to learn something to cast this rod. It’s not for the novice but with that said I did not find it difficult to cast!

The Method is due to arrive around the first of August 2013 and they are available on our website for a pre-order purchase for those who can’t wait…be the first to get one! If you’re in the area stop by and give one a test spin.

Sage Method: Starting at $800.00

Greg Darling

Product Specialist

Gorge Fly Shop

Order yours today!
"Fly Fish the World with Us"