What outfit

silvertop · #1 10-16-2009, 07:12 PM

Hi, im new to this forum and thinking of buying a new rod +reel, been looking at the Hardy's Demon. I fish small res. + stillwaters. Les.

Pleccy · #2 10-16-2009, 07:55 PM

The first thing that I would recommend doing is getting some good instruction, take a look at http://www.aapgai.co.uk

Never be fooled by a price tag or name on a rod, while the Hardy Demon is a nice tool (I have a 9ft #5) take a look at other brands such as Greys, Orvis and even second-hand Sages (which can be picked up for around £200). The price-quality gap has certainly shrunk in recent years with the advancement of rod building technology.

My first question is are you going to be fishing from the bank or from a boat? If you intend to do a mix a 10ft #7 rod would be ideal, however if you intend to stick to the bank then a 9ft - 9ft 6" #7 rod would be better. Shorter rods have the advantage of being able to cut through a strong wind (with a good casting stroke), along with being able to generate more line speed, tighter loops and more distance.

For smaller stillwaters (upto around 10-15 acres) a 9ft #6 rod would be perfect, presentation rather than distance is the key. Too many anglers have a major problem with looking at the water 30-40 yards out in front of them than directly under their feet, some of my biggest fish have come from within 10 yards of the bank.

silvertop · #3 10-16-2009, 08:32 PM

Thanks Luke im new to this forum not trout fishing just wondered what peoples thoughts were on the Demon was or is there better at price range. Les.

Pleccy · #4 10-16-2009, 10:14 PM

Ah well in that case the only advice I can give you is to try it out, in terms of comparison you would be looking at something along the lines of a Greys X-flite. The Greys G-tec and Hardy Angel TE have a faster action.

Also ask Sportfish for their list of second-hand rods, I'm sure I spied a couple of Sage TCR's at rock-bottom prices last week. The 9ft #4 is absolutely dreamy and you can get them in #5, 6 and 7 weight sizes. However these have now been succeeded by the TCX range. The Orvis Western 3's are also worth a look at and if you can find one, a St. Croix Avid.

silvertop · #5 10-17-2009, 06:08 PM

Thanks for your time in replying, just got in from Arnfield Fishery, i will certanly take on board what you have suggested once again thanks Les.

welsh alan · #6 10-21-2009, 05:18 PM

I have used a 5wt Demon rod for about a year now, I would really recommend it, its a really beautifull rod. I also fish with a sage Tcr, I can
cast over 30mts with it, but if you are not used to ultra fast rods forget it.

silvertop · #7 10-21-2009, 08:23 PM

Thanks Alan the rods i am using are a Wickams Precision 5/6 9ft and a Diawa Wilderness 7wt 9ft 6. Why do most people on here use 4/5 rods. Les.

welsh alan · #8 10-22-2009, 11:48 AM

Hello Les, It all depends on the wind, the tcr 5 I use is ok in the wind, the Demon I only use on the river, or if there is not much wind about, I have a scott 6 wt which I am trying to sell, only because I have got used to the tcr, lighter rods are a lot better on the old shoulder.

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