Hi All:

Been awhile since I visited the forum. I want to build my wife a new 5wt, fast action rod. Last year I built a client a TFO rod and really like the blank. Any suggestions on which for their various blanks I should consider? She is a very accomplished fly fisher. We dry fly fish only. While cost is always an issue, I don't mind spending more ($100-125) on the blank if necessary.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Harold

P.S. Since I haven't built a rod in over a year, any suggestion on components?

P.P.S. Has anyone built/used one of TFO's Axiom line?



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/12/2010 10:54AM by Harold Blair.

I have casted the 5 weight TiCr and it really feels nice. Haven't seen the other faster rods yet, but you can't beat their customer service and blank warranty. I wouldn't hesitate building a 5 weight, and may myself for my next project. The 6 weight I just finished up easily casts another 20 feet farther than what I've normally been doing, and that is with a 6 weight line. Either I'm getting better at casting, or this rod fits my style better. I guess it would depend on whether she wants to use it for close range fishing or needs more distance out of it. I prefer more moderate medium fast action for 20-40 foot casts, but that's just what I'm used to. I don't use snake guides anymore, mostly alconite single foot guides.

Mike

These blanks were once a great value but lately they have been having trouble with their ferrules. prices are no longer all that great compared against some of the newer stuff from Batson and St Croix. Might want to look outside TFO these days IMHO. Sure wish they had not changed the blanks the way they did.

For dyf flies I would go with the "Finesse" or the "pro series". The others are a bit stiff.

I just finished a 6wt 4pc built on a St Croix blended blank the new SC IV/SCII and it rocks. Very light in the hand and easy loading, also very quick responce. The blank is a very nice burgandy color and looks very classy. The cost was right about what you talked about. Made in the USA and very much worth a look.

I absolutely second Eric's suggestion. The new SC4/2 fly blank lineup is absolutely an incredible value. To top it all off, you can get a "lady-like" color OR a "normal" colored blank. Definitely take a look before making your purchase.