Part three Took Cabela’s CGR 7’6″, 7/8-weight to the Florida flats the other day, lined with a 7-weight floater, a 10′ leader, and a size 4 fly.
Cabela’s CGR 7’6″, 7/8-weight, Fly Rod
I found the rod fun to fish, but a couple issues came up. We had a sea breeze during the flood, and I was casting into it. As you might imagine, a full-flex glass rod isn’t the best tool straight into the wind. By lengthening my backcast and my casting stroke, however, I was still able to stay in the game.
As I waded deeper, however, my long backcasts were occasionally touching the water. Granted some of that was my fault. Yet this rod’s fairly slow action and short 7’6′ length were contributing to the problem. By raising my elbow and stopping the rod high during the backcast, the issue was remedied.
Overall, I like this rod, and feel it was a super buy. Granted, it isn’t going to be the most versatile rod in your arsenal. You’re going to have to pick and choose the right situations. Still where it fits, you’ll enjoy this glass stick, especially with a fish aboard.
Special note: This review is on a Cabela’s CGR rod. I hear the newer CGT rods are quite a bit stiffer
Interested in reading about other Winston Fiberglass fly rods? Check out these links. Winston 2wt Stalker, Winston 5wt , Winston 6wt, Winston 8wt, Winston 1owt, Winston 12wt
When I raise my elbow to compensate for wind my shoulder pays the price. Good advice on changing casting styles to suit the conditions.
Hi Ted,
Shoulder injuries are common these days; age and “fast” action rods are often to blame. When wading deep, you will benefit from a longer rod, no question. The added length keeps your backcast higher off the water. But here are two additional thoughts. Instead of raising your elbow, simply angle your backcast upward. Easy enough to do. And once the backcast motion stops, do not allow your wrist to drop the rod farther to the rear. Hope these things help.
Ed