"Scott Seidman" wrote in message
. 1.4...
http://americanangler.com/index.php?...sk=view&id=281
&Itemid=0


American Angler just ran an article on "switch" rods, which fall somewhere
between two-handed and one-handed rods. I think I'll start calling them
"hand and a half".

Anyone try these?

When new things come along, I'm usually of the school that thinks the same
old manufacturers are trying to sell me the same thing I already own, but
this seems to be coming out of the boutique shops, and the big names are
following along.


--
Scott
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Scott,
I suppose every new rod design deserves a name, I call them "Hybrids'."
I read the article by Zach Mattews in American Angler, pretty much as said.
Years ago I got to try Steve Rajeff's 11.5 ft. G Loomis two handed rod
design, before the switchrod's kicked in. It was lightweight and used a
regular 8wt WF line. I could cast it with one hand if I wanted to, but the
best feature was the extended handle in performing the spey casting
techniques. It was very easy to load the rod. Since then, I've learned to
perform those spey techniques on a single handed rod, which I prefer.

Rajeff's rod was great for nymphing with the extra length (before you ""
keep your mind out of the gutter Scott ;-). It was easy to highstick without
adding an indicator, just add enough splits to get down where the fish were.
It also felt good for casting great lengths on the large river. The
disadvantage was in tight quarters.

I also enjoy the old school thinking.
-tom