8 wt cast-off
 

I recently did a head-to-head test of three 8 weights: an Orvis Helios,
an Orvis T3, and a Sage Z-Axis.

They were all good rods, but I rated the Helios last because it didn't
seem to have enough backbone for casting into the wind (which
fortunately came up pretty good during the test). Also, the aluminum rod
seat was weak, and the threads were slightly stripped on the demo rod --
not a good sign. The T3 was a close second to my favorite, the Z-Axis.
Chas (remember Chas?) recently visited me and told me that the Z-Axis
was the most accurate rod he's used. (Chas is an excellent caster.) I
think he's right -- it's very accurate.

I bought a 12wt Helios for trevally, tarpon, milkfish, etc. because I
felt that its relatively light weight was important for such a heavy
rod. It shoots line like crazy.

--
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