orvis superfine 8’ 4w 4pc “tight loops”
Years ago, I saw an advertisement for an Orvis Superfine rod. The picture showed a man stealthily approaching a deep pool with a beautiful waterfall cascading into it. The picture alone made me want to purchase this rod. Finally in March 2006 I had to buy one. It is every bit the rod they claim. This is the largest Superfine that Orvis offers. I decided that it would be more versatile in this length and weight. I am glad I made that decision. I paired a Ross Evolution reel (a little overkill, but it was pretty!) and the Lee Wulff double taper line. I recommend double taper line for brook trout fishing.
The rod handles perfectly in a small stream setting. Casting is effortless. I will caution those of you who prefer a “casts 100 feet with a flick-of-the-wrist rod.” This rod requires a soft hand and patience with the timing. You can gently drop a size 18 dry fly with minimal movement of the elbow. It will also power a size 14 double-nymph rig without backlash or over-looping.
In large stream settings, a 50-ft. cast is easily attainable. I was fishing the Loyalsock creek in a very difficult deep back eddy situation, where I had to cast 50+ feet with a size 12 March Brown wet. The rod was fluid and easy to cast. I did not have to muscle it to get what I wanted. Simply a beautiful, classic Brook Trout rod.
For 2007, Orvis has re-tooled the Superfine line. They are all named “Trout Bum” and the price has gone up $150.00 with a little bit flashier thread, guides, and reel seats. Still a worthy rod for any Fly fisherman’s collection!
