Winston XTR #10

[GULFSTREAM]

Hi everyone. I have been doing a lot of online reading about the Winston XTR 10 weight rod. I broke my loomis 10 and seeing that I wanted a new rod as this one was pretty beat up I looked into the XTR. Xmas is right around the corner hehehe. I am looking at this particular rod to use it for striper fishing and light tarpon fishing around Naples on occasion. Have any of you used this rod and more importantly what did you think about it? Thanks in advance and tight lines.

[Cajunman]

Hi Gulfstream,
I've been using that rod in a 3 piece version for about 3 years now.
It's great for throwing a 450 grain sink tip line but with a floating you need a bit of line out to load it, even when you go a line size up.
The rod is no doubt very stiff but it has a lot of backbone to fight a good size fish.
I've also had good experiences with their warranty program. Not because of craftsmanship but just me breaking the rod by accident and I own 3 Winston rods. Fast turn arounds on repairs.
I hope this helps.
Ayieeeee!!!
Chris

[GULFSTREAM]

Thanks Cajunman. I will defintely look into the rod as my next purchase! Tight lines!

[houdini]

Before you jump, take a look at Temple Fork Rods. Lefty Kreh just redesigned a bunch and the price is right. On line, take a look at Feather-craft.com - they have 'em. I have a 12 Wgt and a 10 wgt. and love them!

[GULFSTREAM]

houdini I have the ticr in a 12 very much like the rod. Great for slinging heavy lines and big flies from structure or boat for Bass. I'll look into the Temple Forks #10 too. Thanks and tight lines!

[JohnDe]

Gulfstream -

I have no opinion on the Winston - but just curious. Why isn't Loomis replacing the busted rod for the $20 fee?

[Too Fly]

Agreed, the Winston XTR is a great series. It's too bad they're slowly being phased out. They're only making five piece models now. I gotta take extra special care of my 3 piece 8 and 10.

It's probably just me, but does anyone else think that the IIx feels too light (whimpy even)?

[tommat]

I just saw someone selling a used T&T Horizon 10 wt for $250.00. Buy that one!!

[JGH]

Too Fly -- I don't own the IIx, but I've test-casted it and agree that it feels almost too light. But the thing that I liked least about it is that the cork grip seemed smaller in circumfrence than other rods. While it may be a great rod, those two things turned me off. Made it seem like a kids' rod (albiet one with a hefty $).

[Too Fly]

JGH,

I'm not trying to knock the rod either, but what you mentioned turned me off from it too. I like the XTR handle much better. And this is really superficial, but the all cork butt (similar to the GLX) isn't too appealing to me either. To each their own I guess.