The Greys Kite Double Handed Salmon Fly Fishing Rod (13ft / 8-9 / 4pc) is a specialized fly rod designed for two-handed (Spey) casting, primarily targeting salmon and large trout in big rivers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its features and suitability:
Key Features:
1. Length & Action:
– 13ft – Ideal for Spey casting, offering superior line control and mending ability in large rivers.
– 8/9 line weight – Designed to handle heavy lines (e.g., Skagit, Scandi, or traditional Spey lines) for casting large flies and sinking tips.
– Likely a medium-fast to fast action, providing power for long casts while maintaining sensitivity for fish detection.
2. 4-Piece Design:
– Travel-friendly and easy to transport, while maintaining good rod integrity.
3. Double-Handed (Spey) Use:
– Optimized for overhead and Spey casting techniques (e.g., Single Spey, Double Spey, Snake Roll).
– Reduces fatigue compared to single-handed rods when fishing all day.
4. Target Species:
– Primarily for Atlantic salmon, but also effective for steelhead, sea trout, and large brown trout in big water.
5. Build Quality:
– Greys (now part of Pure Fishing, alongside Hardy) is known for durable, performance-oriented rods at a mid-range price point.
– Likely features a carbon fiber blank with quality guides and reel seat.
Ideal Use Cases:
– Big Rivers: Excellent for wide, powerful rivers like the Scottish Tay, Norwegian Gaula, or Canadian Miramichi.
– Swinging Flies: Perfect for traditional wet-fly swinging with tube flies, doubles, or intruders.
– Versatility: Can handle floating, intermediate, or sinking tips depending on conditions.
Potential Considerations:
– Weight: A 13ft 8/9 rod may feel heavy for smaller rivers or shorter casting scenarios.
– Skill Level: Spey casting requires practice; beginners might prefer a slower-action rod for easier timing.
– Reel Pairing: Match with a large-arbor reel (e.g., Hardy Marquis, Greys GRX) with a strong drag for running fish.
Alternatives to Compare:
– Hardy Zephrus DH (Higher-end, faster action)
– Sage Igniter DH (Premium, ultra-fast)
– Redington Dually (Budget-friendly option)
Final Verdict:
The Greys Kite 13ft 8/9 is a solid choice for anglers targeting salmon or steelhead in big water, offering a balance of power, durability, and value. If you’re serious about Spey fishing, it’s worth testing alongside competitors for action preference.
Would you like recommendations for lines or setups to pair with it?