Walter & Group.....
From Tom White on slow v. fast rods:-
Gordy
I have tried to get several manufacturers’ to agree on terms’ in relationship to Slow Vs: Fast Fly rods. I couldn’t get a consensus – sound familiar?
With Spin/casting rods, it is simple and standardized.
Experiment on loading the Slow Rod vs; the Fast rod;
- Use the same amount of fly line on both.
- Use the same “hand Stroke length" on both.
- Use the same “arc” on both.
- Note what happens !
I have found that the stroke length – hand motion – is shorter with a Fast rod.
Also the Arc’ is less with a Fast Rod.
The Loops are easier to tighten with a Fast Rod.
With a Slower rod, you need to increase the arc in order to load further down the rod.
You also have to lengthen the stroke.
Smoother application of power.
Less efficient to cast.
More comfortable to some.
Not as efficient in winds.
More forgiving on tippets.
Most casters – beginners to intermediate – enjoy the action. (Winston, Orvis, and several freshwater manufacturers)
A little easier to roll cast at shorter distances- 50’ and less.
I have noticed that the great distance casters – except Rajeff – have gone to a stiffer tip section on their rods. But, this is and exception.
That is why the Sage TCR is so good – stiff tip.
Let me know your thoughts.
Tom
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Tom....
Just a couple of comments:
That TCR is a great rod for experts....but hard for an intermediate caster to manage. Very unforgiving for less than perfect timing.
I find (as I believe you do) that for roll casting distances in excess of 60' that the stiffer rod is better whereas the slower rod, as you point out, is fine for short distances.
I'd choose a MEDIUM action rod for an early caster. With the fast rod, everything happens so fast that he/she can't figure out what is going on. With the slow rod, it's too easy to over load it especially with a spike of power in the middle of the stroke so the beginner tails often.
We could list MANY differences between fast and slow rods for striking and fighting fish. Let's leave that for a future topic.
Gordy