G. Loomis Asquith 1290

Reviews

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   As in the former Asquith series, the new 12-weight stretches beyond the ceiling. It is a lighter rod than its predecessor but still designed for the experienced caster who seeks the horizon of capability in a big game fly rod. It casts an SA Tarpon taper beautifully, with tight loops, as if presenting a size #18 BWO to rising trout. A strong caster will appreciate this quality when side-arming a small tarpon fly to oceanside fish in the Keys or spooky laid up fish in the Boca Grande backcountry, but most anglers will cast this rod best with a heavy-headed line, such as the SA Grand Slam or Rio Outbound. It’s the ultimate giant trevally rod, on condition of being paired with a heavy headed line. It is one of the few big game rods that we would actually recommend with a specialized GT fly line, most of which overwhelm lesser fly rods. First and foremost, GT lines are designed to transport and turn over large flies, but they never bring out the best casting qualities out of a fly rod. This rod can handle them, no problem.

   For those who fished the former Asquith, you’ll find the new ASQ 1290-4 to be lighter and sweeter in the tip, quicker to form a casting loop and generate line speed. It is a better caster at every distance and less tiring to fish all day. Butt strength is equal to or greater than its predecessor. In raw, mechanical fishing efficacy, it is a superior fly rod and perhaps the best open-class big game saltwater rod ever made, more than just a “12-weight.” Choose this rod if you are an experienced angler with a powerful casting stroke.

   John Duncan (Telluride Angler)

2. Rated 5 out of 5

   The best made better, the new Asquith 1290 improves upon perfection somehow and reimagines the 12 weight fly rod. What stood out to me most about the version 2016 Asquith 1290 was how easy it was to actually cast the 12 weight line. To create loops with touch and meaning rather than just hang on and let the head fly by. The new ASQ 1290 improves upon this sensation of casting ease with the 12 weight line, in a stronger, lighter and more deft package.

   The rod doesn’t cast the line for you, even with a dumbly overweighted head. Like a boat getting up on plane, the new ASQ 1290 needs a certain amount of input from the caster to really shine. When you’re there, you will feel like a Rio Elite Tarpon WF12F is as lithe and responsive as your favorite 5 weight. Control with a heavy line, lightness in the hand, and absolute strength in the butt section, the new ASQ 1290 possesses all three without compromise. I venture to say the new ASQ 1290 is capable and eager to jump into 13 and 14 weight roles. Tangle with striped marlin, then keep it out for the 10 weight work closer to shore afterwards, a 12 weight that pulls hard and is enjoyable to cast all day. The ASQ 1290 is a tarpon rod that casts like an 11 and pulls like a 13. You will notice a difference when casting the new Asqutih 1290 against other 12 weights, and I believe you will like it.

   Richard Post (Telluride Angler)