Winston Air 2 9’6″ 4-weight

Reviews

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   This is a really well crafted fly rod with specific purpose: line control for presenting smaller flies. From the first cast, I pictured myself fishing this rod on The South Platte, Green or San Juan with either dry flies or a long, light nymph rig. The rod casts a surprising array of fly lines quite well, from the SA Infinity Taper to the Airflo Universal and Rio Gold. Choose your line for your fishing situation, but keep in mind that heavier lines (such as the Infinity Taper), slow the rod down into a medium-fast action and you’ll lose some of the benefit of keeping your line high on the backcast. The rod can handle heavier lines or wind, but not both. It may struggle when lifting a heavy double nymph rig, but will excel with small flies, weight and strike indicators that don’t create excessive drag. I appreciate the Wells grip Winston chose for this model, which reduces fatigue and accentuates the feeling of lightness. Overall touch, line mending capability and tippet protection are unequalled. Fish this rod for tough trout, whether on the surface or beneath. Winston elegance springs from this rod with every cast.

   John Duncan (Telluride Angler)

2. Rated 5 out of 5

   The 9’6” 4wt Air 2 is a wonderful big water tool with small water feel. The rod casts well at all distances and is wonderfully light in hand. It is a great rod for technical water where extra reach is imperative. It won’t toss ultra-heavy nymph rigs across big rivers as well as some other longer nymphing rods, but it will fish lighter flies very well. It is important to note that this would make for a great dry fly stick if the heads come up. The introduction of a 9’6” 4wt trout rod really opens the door to anglers who prefer lighter rods but have always wanted to fish a longer rod. This rod is a game changer and will be sure to turn some heads. I’ve played around with several lines on this rod and it handles a wide range of tapers well. If you want to slow the rod down and really feel it load the SA Amplitude Smooth Infinity is a great choice. The Rio Elite Gold is another great all around line on the 9’6” 4wt Air 2.

   Parker Thompson (Telluride Angler)