G. Loomis Rod Question

[R Shackelford]

I've owned Loomis.....Pheneix...Fenwick Elite Tech....and many others. Have used 3 different custom builders searching for the best UL rods money can buy. My search ended a little over 6 years ago when I went down the JDM road. For what the Loomis will cost you can get a far superior rod out of Japan. No one does it better than the Japanese. Chris over at Finesse Fishing can give you a lot of info and is great to deal with if he has the rod you're looking for. I have some very informative videos about the different types and action of JDM rods on youtube at TroutMagnetMan.

Regards

Thank you very much for providing the informative videos, I do like that extra ultralight by angler's republic. I did look into and consider a few of the JDM rods however I like the security and ease of having a warranty right here in the states in case something were to go wrong, this is an expensive purchase for me and I prefer a little insurance.

[skeetbum]

First, welcome from Central Florida. We all share the passion even when the target species differs. I’m also prone to longer posts and they still like me.

As for your rods I’m no help. I tend to keep rod cost much lower than you’re considering, so I’ll defer to those who know their stuff. Hope you find what you’re after. I personally won’t buy what I haven’t held in my hand, been disappointed a few times too many.

[BobC]

The TSS Trout Slayer by Leland is longer than what your requirements are, which is a shame as it is a heck of a nice rod for the money. Worth a look see, but it sounds like you’re looking at a higher price bracket. As the old saying goes, “don’t let the price fool you”! The TS is a REALLY fun rod, decent quality, and pretty tough as well.
Bob

[R Shackelford]

I am not opposed to spending less, this is just the only rod that fits all my requirements, 5' or less, good quality blank, and high quality Fuji ceramic guides. I would love the opportunity to try a bunch of higher end rods before purchasing but i'm in a black hole for tackle shops out here, nobody has anything.

[BobC]

Gotcha. The TSS ain’t it! Good luck with your research! Please let us know what you decide.
bob

[DockShootinJack]

I have never seen guides with grooves worn in them. That is a lot of use. My rods don't get that much milegae on them

[R Shackelford]

I have never seen guides with grooves worn in them. That is a lot of use. My rods don't get that much milegae on them

This is my Ugly Stik Elite I bought in June, I'd show the tip-top which was far worse however it was replaced a month ago with a spare I had.

[DockShootinJack]

That is a lot of wear

[R Shackelford]

That is a lot of wear

It's the water I fish, it's a freestone creek and every time it rains the water rises and stirs up silt which the line picks up. However this is also when the best fishing is, large trout bite best in high stained water so this is my favorite time to go. I am hoping with high quality guides I will get a rod that will last a while.

[DockShootinJack]

Did Maintenance for 8 years at a rug mill. We processed a lot of yarn. Yarn both synthetic and natural fiber has a lot of dirt in it and therefore extremely abrasive. They make industrial guides that stand up to years of high speed (60 mph) high tension abrasive fibers passing through them with minimal wear. Surely they make rod guides that can take the abuse. if not they need to