Hi,

I am not looking for which rod blank is better, as this is more of a personal view.

But I would like to know how their actions/etc compare to each other.

I have recently cast the Dancraft on a custom build, which felt very good, and for a fast action rod, still had quite a sensitive tip, which will suit the style of fishing I will be doing.

I have also been considering the Rainshadow RX8, but I won't be able to cast the rod to compare.

Any comments would be appreciated.


Thanks,

Richard

IMO the Rainshadow is a little lighter and a little more responsive. Both are excellent though. Hard to go wrong either way.

Hi Rob,

Is this the RX8 or RX7?

In the #4, do you think the Rainshadow RX8 would still be sensitive enough in the tip to enjoy catching 1/4 and 1/2 pound fish?

This is a major factor in my rod selection, as the exclusive use will be on them.

Thanks,

Richard

IMHO, the RX8's are second to none-none I say. They are crisp, light, and tough. But IMHO, "sensitivity" is mostly achieved by how the rod is built and the components used. Do you mean if the rod would be enjoyable to catch fish in the 1/4-1/2# range Richard?

Also, are you fishing in the wide open where wind is a HUGE factor? In a river or a lake? What type of flies are you gonna use? The forementioned would be very important varibles.

Anyway, just some other things to consider in which I'm sure you have thought of already.

Paul

Hi Paul,

This rod will be used exclusively in the saltwater, catching small fish in the 1/4 to 1/2 pound range with the occasional fish going 1 - 2 lb.

I was considering a #2 -#3 weight, but the wind is a big factor.

The guides I will be using will probably be TICH single foot, with TI Nitride Zirconia stripers.

I have no reservations that either blank will handle the larger fish that I may and will encounter.The Dancraft #4, that I cast few days a ago has been used to catch 4-5 lb, fish in our harbour.

But I do want the blank to have enough sensitivity in the tip so that I can enjoy catching these smaller fish too!

Thanks,

Richard

I have a 3 wt 8 foot Dan craft which I built that I thoroughly enjoy fishing. I just finished a 5 wt 10 foot Dan Craft which I have not had out yet. I really like the blanks but I have not used or built on the RX8. Have you considered using the saltwater heavy Recoil guides? In the US TicH and the Rec are about the same price. The Rec are lighter than the plated TICH. There are so many choices out there. IMO most fly rods will provide a pretty good fight for 1/2 pound to 2 pound fish so if it were me and wind were a consideration I would fish a heavier line and rod. No matter what way you go catching fish on rods you built is enjoyable.

Hi John,

I have considered the Recoil guides, but will probably go with single Tich guides.

Once I get a bit more feedback, I will finalise the blanks and components.

The Dancraft #4 9ft I tried a few days ago was very nice to cast. I just found it was a bit tippy in the cast, and it felt like the tip section was from a #3 rod.

Overall it was easy to cast with. I was just hoping I could get a good comparison with the RX8 Rainshadow.


Thanks,

Richard

Richard,

I think it is 6 to one and a half dozen to the other...I really do. Another parrallel would be: Ford or Chevy. Both good trucks, but I think it comes down to what "feel" the individual prefers. (But we all know that Ford are real trucks though...LOL)

GOod luck and choosing!

Paul

First, the RX8 is a great saltwater rod. A real line cannon with good backbone. If you are going to use it in salt, I would go with a 6wt. The 1/4 to 1/2 fish are considered bait. Even small saltwater species typically run bigger and are hard fighting. But then, they may run smaller in your location.

One word of caution. If you are going to use TiCH guides, make sure they are rated for saltwater. Salt will react with some TiCH finishes, causing eventual rust. I use TC or SS316 guides for salt.

I concur strongly with Mr Riggins...4 weights can be a horror stroy in the wind.

Hi Bob,

Being new to rod building, I have been under the impression that TiCH meant that they were full titanium wire guides?

What is the difference with the SS316 guides below - are these the ones you are referring to?

Are these the best material for fly rods in the wire products (saltwater)?

Whats does it mean when it says "without chrome plating"?

I couldn't find any reference to the TC material/guides.

From Pg 30 Batson Online Catalogue

XSFGP Single Foot Fly Rod Guide Polished SS316 Stainless Steel wire

XTCSFGP Single Foot Fly Rod Guide, SS316 Stainless Steel Wire With PVD TiCh Without Chrome Plating

Which is the better guide for saltwater - regardless of the price?


Thanks,

Richard