Looking for advice on a Fly Rod

[Bouddhaman]

Can you answer an odd question for me please.
I am looking to buy my husband a new fly rod, he is really looking to replace the two he has which have all rings along the 2 pieces but all the rods that I see for sale seem to be loops not eyes . Last year I purchased him a fly rod with loops which was not appreciated, he really wants to replace his other "all eyes" rods. Is it the norm now for all fly rods to be made this way? and what are the downsides?
thank You very much for taking the time to deal with this. I would hate to make another expensive mistake.
Claire Owen

[Bigdave]

Originally Posted by Bouddhaman

Can you answer an odd question for me please.
I am looking to buy my husband a new fly rod, he is really looking to replace the two he has which have all rings along the 2 pieces but all the rods that I see for sale seem to be loops not eyes . Last year I purchased him a fly rod with loops which was not appreciated, he really wants to replace his other "all eyes" rods. Is it the norm now for all fly rods to be made this way? and what are the downsides?
thank You very much for taking the time to deal with this. I would hate to make another expensive mistake.
Claire Owen

Hi Claire, the best thing I would suggest is to have a word with your local fishing tackle shop or if you hav,nt got a decent one nearby look in magazines as they often have advertisements for very good tackle dealers. Snake eyes or loops are popular at the moment but these fads come and go. There are still rods available with eyes. Hope this as been of some help, Bigdave.

[Greenheart]

Hi Claire, Snake eye type rod rings are not a new Idea, infact I have an old Victorian built cane rod that is fitted with them. I believe they are fitted because they are supposed to offer less friction / drag than conventional rings & spread the load through the rod blank better. They are also lighter. Quality fly rod blanks these days can weigh as little as three ounces & heavier / larger eyes could spoil the action. All my favourite fly rods are fitted with them & I prefer them. If your Husband still prefers ordinary type eyes, then one option would be to go to a specialist rod builder. Specify the length & action of the rod that you want & get it built with ordinary rings. This option may not be as expensive as you would expect. It is important to have good quality ceramic lined rings nearest to the reel & at the tip though as these will take most of the wear. Damaged or worn ones will damage the line. Good luck.

[eljeffo]

If he's looking for a Heavy duty type then I would point you in the direction of a St.Croix Wild River steelhead rod with the sliprings. It has eyelets instead of the standard snake guides and the best part is you can use a spinning reel on it or a good flyreel!
The one I have is 11.5 feet long and is a two peice. Price is about 150.00 American Dollars but well worth it. All hand made. Lifetime guarantee.
I'm not plugging St.Criox but, I swear by them...not at them..heh,heh,LOL!