TFO SIGNATURE 2 FLY ROD

The new Sage X fly rod represents the latest creation to come from the genius that is Jerry Siem. As a Sage rod, you know it will be fast, but the X is more than that. The X rod’s all-new fast action taper delivers greater blank recovery and a crisper tip stop – creating tighter, more efficient loops throughout all ranges of casting styles. If you were a fan of the Sage Z-axis and the Sage XP, you’re going to love the all new X.

• Battenkill I for line weights 1-3, 2.8 oz., 2¾” diameter
• Battenkill II for line weights 3-5, 2.9 oz., 3″ diameter
• Battenkill III for line weights 5-7, 3.2 oz., 3¼” diameter
• Battenkill IV for line weights 7-9, 8.5 oz., 3¾” diameter
• Battenkill V for line weights 9-11, 9.5 oz., 4″ diameter

The Orvis Battenkill click-and-pawl reels are a ‘minimalist’s dream’. These reels are made to provide the angler with a pure connection to the fish; not huge drag system or flashy design. These reels are traditional, classic, and ultralight. Made for the enthusiastic trout angler, the Battenkill keeps small-reel functionality without adding unnecessary design features that increase weight. While the reel is old-fashioned, it’s also contemporarily durable and is finished and built using top-notch fly reel technology. Orvis has always been progressive yet traditional and the Battenkill is a prime example of that history.

Nautilus may be well-known for their durable saltwater fly reels but they make a pretty stellar freshwater reel series, too. The X-Series features an open spool design and an ultra-large arbor to create the perfect balance of lightweight design without sacrificing performance. These reels are great for the avid trout angler looking for a light reel for freshwater use. That being said, the larger models can also be taken into the saltwater because of the reel’s sealed disc drag system. Whether you’re battling fish on the mighty Yellowstone or exploring the stream behind your house, this reel is one of the best freshwater reel choices on the market.

Scientific Anglers Amplitude MPX may be our favorite all-around trout line for fast-action rods. If you’ve watched any of our fly rod reviews, you’ve probably seen us casting the Amplitude MPX. This line was made to replace the GPX, SA’s previous iteration of a do-it-all trout line. The MPX features more mass toward the front of the head, however, and allows anglers to access distance casting capabilities without sacrificing finesse. If you’re looking for a versatile line to properly load your fast-action freshwater fly rod, you’ve come to the right place.

The Ross Evolution R combines impeccable engineering with clean aesthetics to produce one of the best trout reels on the market. This reel is lightweight and really strong for stellar freshwater performance. The drag knob offers unique palming capabilities and an incredibly strong drag allows anglers to target any freshwater fish. This reel also has solid retrieval rates and an easy-to-release spool to make it user-friendly and a real fish fighting machine. Ross has been at the top of their freshwater fly reel game for a while now and the Evolution R is sure to prolong their seat atop the throne.

The Classic Trout is Redington’s mid-priced moderate action trout rod. The CT is perfect for spring creeks, small streams, and even some drift boat fishing on larger tailwater fisheries. The rod’s medium-action makes delicate presentations at close-range a breeze and the rod’s functional componentry make the CT one of the best dry fly rods in its price range. If you’re a novice dry fly angler looking to take your game to the next level, the Redington Classic Trout is one of the best in the entry-level price range.