Winston Air 2 9’6″ 8-weight

Reviews

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   The 9 1/2′ 8-weight is the consummate Alaska salmon rod, ideal for all except Chinook. The extra 6″ provides more casting distance and reach on broad waters, but swings notably lighter than a 10′ 8-weight. This is a fisherman’s rod. Both the 9’6″ 7-weight and 8-weight are stiffer and more powerful relative to their line weights than the 9’6″ 4, 5 and 6-weights in this series. These rods cast for power and distance. Their butt sections are stout for playing heavy fish in Alaska-sized rivers. Awkward plus-sized flies, from bunny pike flies to articulated streamers to obnoxious cone-head Dalai Lamas, are easily controlled with both the 7 and 8-weight. The 9’6″ 8-weight Air 2 will be a great choice for heavy pike fishing and other scenarios in which waterlogged flies need to be held high on the backcast for long presentations. This is a powerful, commanding rod for big water and heavy fish. Every caster will be impressed with its line speed and stability under all casting conditions. Fish it with an SA Anadro taper for nymphs of any kind, or swing your flies on a classic steelhead/salmon line.

   John Duncan (Telluride Angler)