Short 8 weight options

MarshRat

MarshRat

Steelhead
Hey y’all

Looking for a short 8 weight. The rod tubes built into my boat are definitely designed for spin rods, my 9’ fly rods barely fit, I’ve snapped a couple tips over the past year when rods get bumped/kicked and the tips meet the end of the tube. I could make some modifications to get the 9 footers to fit more safely, but I think a shorter fly rod would be less cumbersome and slide in and out with less fussing.

Recommendations?
 
There are quite a few options out there from 8.4 to 8.8’. No specific recommendations from me.
If you wanted to go really short, try to find a Loomis Short Stix 8/9 which is 7.6’.
Redington Predator had some 7.11’ models.
I had the 8 wt in that length that I used for bass fishing. Worked well.
SF
 
Find the Scott Sector 8’4” 8 wt and cast it. Might be worth a look. I have not cast that model, but holy moly the 9’7 wt, the 9’8 and the 9’9 are really nice.

Outside of that if you want to consider used rods, (mine is def not for sale but if you can find one) I have a 7’11” Sage Bass II Smallmouth. It is kind of equivalent to an 8 weight. I usually use a 290 grain line on it. I think it is awesome - and your mileage may vary, but mine has proven to be really tough. I have used it for bass, as a streamer rod for big bull trout in some (legal) bull trout fisheries, for small pike…..I really like the rod. I have also fished the Largemouth version and it is nice too though I don’t own one.

Hope you find what you are seeking. b
MarshRat said:
Hey y’all

Looking for a short 8 weight. The rod tubes built into my boat are definitely designed for spin rods, my 9’ fly rods barely fit, I’ve snapped a couple tips over the past year when rods get bumped/kicked and the tips meet the end of the tube. I could make some modifications to get the 9 footers to fit more safely, but I think a shorter fly rod would be less cumbersome and slide in and out with less fussing.

Recommendations?
Click to expand...
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you could always go glass...lots of excellent options there.
 
Definitely check out the Scott Sector or Meridian 8'4" fly rods. You'll have to find the Meridian on an auction site.
 
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Glass makes a killer redfish rod. A lot more touch and accuracy in close quarters then ultra fast saltwater graphite. My 8’6” iconoglass is an absolute sniper with 15’ of fly line off the tip and a weighted crab. And it’s not gutless either. I could still clear a whole fly line with a nice loop if I had to. They are powerful, it’s just different. My experience was in Louisiana, so if your fishery requires more consistent shots at 40-70’ then graphite is probably better, but if you are right on top of them, definitely try a modern glass taper, you’ll be surprised.
 
Check out the 8’ 8wt Hardy Zane. Nice rod that was recently discontinued but available on EBay at great price.
 
Speaking of short and powerful rods, I'm currently having another Steffen Brother glass built. 8' 8/9wt. That's a size and weight that would be perfect for what you're describing.
 
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