Anyone know of any blanks that are nice and soft like the old Winston's? I really this the feel of them.

William,

The CCS database (link on top left) does not have many Winston IM6 entries in it but I think you will be interested in checking them out. Just like the Orvis Superfine graphite series, I think a lot of the "feel" that people like about the Winston IM6 (now called WT) is their relatively low amount of power compared to most modern graphite rods. That low power allows them to flex deeply at normal stream fishing distances and give the caster relaxed, comfortable control. I have had very good success using many very inexpensive IM6 blanks (like PacBay or Rainshadow for example) but lining them heavier than they are rated. For example, buying 3 and 4 wt. blanks to fish 5 and 6wt. lines. The CCS database can help guide you in selecting the right amount of power (ERN) for getting the feel you want with the line you want to cast.

To give you a good non-Winston example, the beloved classic Orvis Far and Fine has an ERN of 3.8 but Orvis rates it as a 5wt. For those who like the type feel you are seeking, it is in fact a superb 5wt. stream rod. Hope this helps. As is the Winston Tom Morgan Favorite a great 4wt. with it's 2.5 ERN.

Steve

Steve--thanks for bringing that up (i.e. over-rating/lining the rod for a more full/traditional feel).

I've had a number of competent fly fishers describe the Rainshadow RX7 as "Winston-like". Dan Craft's Signature IV series also has that full, presentation feel to them. And the Forecasts (especially in 2pc) are also a very viable alternative for not a lot of $$. If you're interested in any of these, William, drop us a line and we'd be happy to work up a quote for you!

All the best,

William.....

John's right.

The Forecast rods I've built....all 4 wts (2 7'6 4 pcs and one 8'0 2 pc) were all very deep flexing...especially the two pc 4 wt. I have really like the 7'6 4 wts, though...and think with a 5 wt line you would have just the feeling you are looking for.

I also have the Rainshadow RX7 4 wt (8 ft). Quite a nice rod.....but you might have to overline to a 6 to get that real deep flex you're after.

Keith

Give the PacBay Rainforest series a look. You can find some great deals on those, as I believe they have been discontinued (not sure - better check). They are dark green like Winston, and have a full flex action. I've built 3 - 7'4wt, 8'4wt, and 6'6"2wt, and they have that smooth deep bending classic IM6 feel. The 8'4wt is a real sweetie.

Bob

You might check out RodMaker vol.8, issue 1 for a discussion on the frequency, feel, and adjusting line weight to obtain the feel you like.

Bill