The Ultimate 7wt Fly Fishing Streamer Rig

[@dgilchrist6361]

I’ve been watching and sharing this video with new fly fishers for 4 years now. It’s simply one of the best videos I’ve ever found that explains the relationships between the rod - fly line - and fly so well. Regardless of rod wt. Todays rods as well as vintage rods all have a range of action’s that require figuring out the best set up of fly lines to make them shine. So like he says, there really aren’t any bad rods. You just have to find the set up that works best for you. I often fish 4 to 5 different fly lines on my streamer rods depending on conditions.

[@felipecamargo7890]

Rod/reel combo with fishing kit as an emergency setup kzbin.infoUgkxntWMOZsO1Zfv-pdn_XuffEtNkTYAYu4Z recommend but started to use this every day. The rod is thick and seems durable. I keep it neatly tucked into a regular backpack all the time with my fishing gear, and can grab it anytime, put it on my back and go anywhere. I just read in another review that the rod length below the reel is adjustable as well, so I will try that too for even more portability. Probably the best setup I've ever owned. I lost the cap for the eyelets, but no big deal since I still have the black cloth sheath that came for the pole and I use that. Very portable and high quality.

[@kevingeary1472]

You guys should do one of these in every line wt. Extremely helpful hearing about the line weight preferences of each rod!

[@marcanderson1396]

Love the video. This weight class is where I spend most of my time every year as my location has me fishing bass on the fly more often than any other species. Notice everything you talked about here is casting which is super important but versatility seems important. I went Helios 3F because I wanted a bit more feel and it sure does move plenty of line but I used it in a pinch steelhead fishing and really appreciated a bit more sensitivity in the tip section. Great video. I’m watching from here on!

[@1Troutguy]

I just bought the Helios 3D 7wt, looking forward to throwing it.

[@travissimmons5561]

This is such a great video. Would be awesome if you did an updated version of it!

[@stephenpiper6212]

Thanks for the review. A few points for better or worse. I think your review confirmed that not all 7 weight rods are "true" 7 weights. 1) One company's 7 weight is not the same as another company's because different people are rating the rods. As stated in the review, one "7 weight" might cast a heavier line better or worse than another. This should make it clear that you really need to cast a rod with the line and fly that you will be using before you buy -- everybody casts differently so you can't rely on what another caster likes. 2) A rod should be able to cast well any line you choose - floating or sinking - just as long as the fly line is the appropriate weight for the rod. For a typical 7 weight rod, this is about a 240 grain shooting head line or a WF7F line that is 185 grains in the first 30 ft according to the standard AFTMA line weight table. These lines are about the same weight in the 40-50 ft that we false cast because the running line on the WF line is thick and heavy, but on the shooting head line is thin and light. Clear as mud? ha ha. 3) Finally, the range of line weights that a rod will cast comfortably - the rod's versatility - is a function of the rod taper not the price of the rod. A rod with a progressive taper that bends progressively more into the rod butt section for heavier lines will handle many line weights. Thanks again.

[@barrybigplums]

I have the Helios 3d in 5wt....I have tried most high end rods out there and agree that the Helios 3 really is in a class of its own

[@marcanderson1396]

In the application this video pinpoints I would not argue at all. My 7wt Helios 3 is fantastic. In the 5wt class you are talking about I would argue a bit if you want more delicate work. I wouldn’t trade my Scott Centric 5wt for any other in the class. But that’s why there are so many options!

[@richarde1355]

Super well done comparison - well thought out, thorough, executed, and articulated. I totally agree with you guys on how you approached this - the various lines used, etc. I could tell you guys know your stuff - talking about a rod folding, stiff tips and how the rod reacts, the power of the rods, etc. And, as you noted several times, it's really about the setup, and not always about the rod. I have some 6 weights, for example, that LOVE 250 grain integrated head lines. For a streamer 7 weight rod, I would expect my stick to shine with at least 250 grain lines, with it liking more the 275 grain and up to 300 grain lines.I cast the Orvis 3F eight weight recently, and I think it might be one of the nicest 8 weights I've cast. I cast it next to the Recon, which is a very nice rod, but the 3F was noticeably more accurate and easier to cast rod. Some rods need the caster to 'cast' the rod, and some rods do a lot of the work for the caster. Now, the 3F not a rod that I would use with sink tips - it's action seems to be more befitting a floating line. But, someone looking for a flats stick, man, it's a dandy. I also cast the 5 weight Helios 3D, and man that rod is a beauty. I was expecting it to be on the stiff side, but it still would load pretty quickly and easily in close (under 30 feet)., and the rod was incredibly accurate.That white decal on those H3 rods - the marketing person who came up with that concept, well, it was dumb. Reminded me of something that one would find on a $30 big box fishing rod. Just plain unattractive.Jeff, some super solid casting, too. Fun watching the flex pattern of some of the rods. Teeny bit of creep at times, coming forward a wee bit before your line hand was in place for the double haul, but it happened only on occasion, but really super solid casting overall . I bet Jeff can huck a bug a fair distance...strong caster.Great stuff, fellas. Best fly rod review I've seen here on KZbin.

[@shanemccoy8058]

Wrap black electrical tape around the white portion.

[@bradr539]

Great video, your right about " the right setup" being the key. I've been using a n 8 wt. Clutch for the last two years and 350 grain is getting a bit heavy, and 300 a bit light. With 325 grain Rio out bound short, the rod really came to life. :)

[@lokithebuilder1071]

Best review ever wow Never seen a test like this keep up the good work You guys are testing these rod for What Its ment to be used Heavy files,heavylines,light lines,alot of wind These are some of the though conditions we are facing I will buy this new Orvis Cheerz folks

[@cjewell08]

Sounds like the foundation is the best choice in the 3-400 range if you want to fish for carp, small mouth, trout streamers, pike, and light salt.

[@m40_kid70]

My go to streamer stick is the Sage Bass II

[@bronzeback29]

Sage Igniter 7wt for the win, that is what its made for.

[@hunterspiri7830]

Excellent review. I had the 3D in a 6wt and honesty wasn’t to fond of it so I exchanged it for the 3F which I absolutely love. It’s great with floating lines and intermediate lines but struggled with the sinking lines. I am now in the market for a dedicated streamer setup and did cast the 3D in the 7wt and fell in love with it. For some reason I just didn’t like the 6wt but boy the 7wt is a beauty and this review just solidified my answer! And I was debating between the Radian and 3D. I don’t mind the white label but Scott’s are absolutely stunning rods; on par with Winston’s.

[@jakefinn7905]

really enjoyed the review, would like to see more of these. i don't know if my recommendation will have any value but the Redington Voyant Fly Rod in a 5 wt. coupled with a Rio Bonefish Quickshooter is a great casting and good fighting stick for freshwater tarpon, snook, and peacock bass in s. florida. its just a light & fun rod to cast and stays perminently in the truck. rod is discontinued & discounted ~ 99.00.

[@bjornchristiansson2827]

Very good video 👌 High end rods have often more develop costs why they hande light lines better and as you load grain on them they tend not to bog down and lose the accuracy! I have a Swedish made 90s 5/6# rod who kick ass because it do 150-300 grain whit no so issues. That rod is not made any more. So budget is a part and next how much will the rod been used ! Best regards from Sweden Scandinavia 🇸🇪

[@stephengosda3178]

Thank you great review, Im getting a 7wt scott radian matched with a Hatch Finatic 7wt reel for stillwater fishing.

[@rootedrotor525]

You guys still a fan of the foundation? I'm thinking about picking one up. Mainly fishing a 200 grain, but would like to throw some big drys with it as well. Thanks - great Vid

[@kurtjensen7930]

Surprised not to see the Sage payload!

[@kevingeary1472]

Dude I've watched this 3 times. Awesome video! Please do another one with more rods - zane pro, nrx, scott sector, echo prime, echo streamer, greys gr80, etc. Thanks for the great content

[@marcelchaloupka]

What a great video.

[@benjaminrichard7357]

When you state line weight in grains are you talking grains for the first 30' or entire head? Just want to clarify for myself. Before, I make a line purchase for my sage foundation. Thanks a bunch, and great video!

[@ericcallen7461]

Great Review! Absolutely one the best. However, could you review the Orvis Clearwater 7wt and let us know your thoughts in comparison with the others? Thanks again for a great review and channel.

[@barrybigplums]

Eric Callen the new Clearwater is a good rod but as with the new recon is sadly pretty darn heavy with a high swing weight...I ended up sending my 10 foot 7 weight Clearwater back as I really did not like the high swing weight

[@mainetroutwhisperer]

Good video! What about casting small streamers on a heavy line? Like a 250g with smaller streamers. Does that work ok? Just wondering if you can do both big and small stuff on them.

[@dylantaylor1418]

youd think a trout whisperer would test that out himself

[@mainetroutwhisperer]

@@dylantaylor1418 that comment was 2 years ago… I have tested it lol

[@TedJ71]

Great review ! Been looking for a bass rod in 7wt and mostly the SA SONAR/Titan Series of lines with streamers, clousers, crayfish patterns. What do you think of the H3D 9’ 7WT rod for that application ?

[@cuntgrisenakke6622]

Fits perfect i own this mysef s workhorse

[@RespekfulFungus]

What do you guys think of the St. Croix Mojo bass rod?

[@jorgesven5197]

I have been fishing #6 weighted streamers with a RIO Sinking Tip 150 Grains Line with a 5 wt rod for more than 20 years....I do no see the need of a 7 wt rod at all. Just keep your 5 wt Rod with a RIO 150 Grain Line. Only if you use large articulated streamers you will need a 7 wt Rod. Just an opinion from a veteran streamer fisherman.

[@igordamascan8059]

Good work. Thanks!

[@tonyhoyt]

Great video. Curious about 6wt. rods as well. I have an 8 wt sage for my 325 grain, but want to add a 6wt to my quiver for my 225 commando head and 250 streamer express. Thanks!

[@marcanderson1396]

I have run the OPST commando head head from 5wt to 9 wt just for fun. I love the line on my Scott S4S in 6wt as it has a little more backbone than my Older Sage rod. I bet the Helios 3D would be fantastic with that or the Loomis NRX+. Commando heads are so fun to mix up.

[@markhoffman9655]

Interesting you didn't try the Sage Method which in my experience is very streamer focused design that can punch a 1/0 clouser across 20-30 km/h wind with great authority with a standard Rio Outbound Short( with a WF7F, not overlined .

[@fjellfiskeren7354]

Mark Hoffman For trout you will not use Method not even like a 5 weight its way too stiff Helios 3D can do just about everything that Method does and still its cool to fish with If i had to choose one rod for like sea trout fishing i would much rather buy Winston Air Salt Feel and still tops everything Method does...but not that ultra stiff tip

[@markhoffman9655]

Hmm , suppose I am used to thinking about our local trout (here in New Zealand) that average 2-3 kilos ...

[@markhoffman9655]

I find the Method is still gentle with 0.5 to 1 sea trout (Kahawai) and has enough power to handle saltwater fish 6-8 kilos (kzbin.info/www/bejne/aKvYZaSYfKuintU). Versatile rod for me. @@fjellfiskeren7354

[@fjellfiskeren7354]

I am using the ultra fast Method #5 for sea trout /smaller rivers for salmon The Method #6 for salmon in Norway I just recently bought the Helios 3D bang finally an allround rod which could do everything better+ no stiff tip Just my five cents buddy👍 Dont pay attention about my rant because im kinda bored with Sage they always Bring those rods with flat top section......nahh after 20 years of using them i am out The only rod that they made in their line up which is Sage Z Axis could do it all but wasent a broooomstick their best allround fast action rod Ever in my opinion.

[@paratrooper7340]

I"m kinda sorry that you didn't include one of the new Fenwick rods that have been received very favorably by other reviewers - I bought one and while its not up to my 7 wt. Sage its still really a pleasure to fish with.

[@ohflyingfoot7071]

Good job, guys!

[@Jessehermansonphotography]

As where some of the entry level 7wt couldn’t handle the 300 grain line, would it be better for an entry level angler to find a $200 or so 8wt? Or am I off on that thought?

[@dylantaylor1418]

100%

[@butkusrules08]

I know this is old video biut Stream-X is awesome

[@armjamal1]

great review and waiting for u to make a review on the gloomis Asquith thks

[@coryczerwinski4456]

Great video, very informative. I have a Helios 2 in a 7wt and was wondering how you think it would compare to the Helios 3D 7wt?

[@BlueRidgeFlyFishing]

+cory czerwinski They are both fast rods but the H3 has a very different action and is much more responsive. The H3 is going to handle anything you throw at it while retaining its action. I still think the H2 one piece is one of the best saltwater rods but that is opinion.

[@warrenc5013]

I recommend 8 wt. 7wt is just a bit weak

[@hunterspiri7830]

Where would the Scott Meridian and Winston Biii Plus compare to the Radian And Helios D

[@dgilchrist6361]

Hunter - I have a Winston Biii--x and just got back from fishing the white bass run this evening. It literally feels like a 5wt in terms of flexibility. Loads of fun playing smaller male whites, but I would be terrified to hook a hybrid or small striper on it. The 200 grain WF6 Airflo Streamer Max line overloaded the rod in all phases. It's just way under-powered for a 7 wt. And I have Winston Biii-x rods on 5 and 6 wt I love. So this 7 is going on eBay. Maybe the Plus adds power in the butt and mid sections to be a true streamer rod. Just wanted to let you know a Biii-x in 7 is more of a 6wt

[@shanemccoy8058]

Do you guys think the new TFO BVK would be a good streamer rod to overload with line? I picked up the new one and it felt stiff, there's NO vids on the new model.

[@voidzsolos1861]

Thanks dude

[@rickynelson7384]

Actually fly fishing has more to do with your ability to cast than who builds your fly rod , setup is critical !!

[@cachi-7878]

Ricky Nelson Agreed. Watching him cast, lessened my trust in his review and analysis. He’s not loading those rods nearly as much as they could be. His forward cast has his arm overextended throughout the the stroke and starts the swing (tip moving past the butt section) too soon not allowing these rods to load properly. Compare this to Joe Rotter from Red’s Fly Shop casting a Sage X. You might argue the comparison isn’t fair since Joe is casting a 5wt. but I’ve seen him cast 9wt-12wt rods and my observations still hold. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIqrn5ShqrmCmKM

[@jimtruscott5670]

Ricky Nelson Dead true. With good technique and the right set ups one can catch plenty of fish even with a cheap rod, ie a rod for $50 or less. Last year, for the hell of it I bought a Berkeley Cherrywood for $35 in a pawnshop in Missoula Montana. It’s an 81/2 foot which casts beautifully with a 5w line. I love it and I own Sage, Winston, Scott,Orvis and other pricy but excellent rods .

[@mkodom88]

Hey guys what would you recommend weight Wise for throwing streamers in the Tuckaseege, French broad and Davidson rivers. I'm looking at the Helios 3d, sage x, and sage salt. Thanks!

[@BlueRidgeFlyFishing]

A 7wt is going to give you the most line options which in turn makes your set up more versatile. A 6wt could probably get the job done, but if you get high water or need the fly down quick, anything over 250gr is going to get really, really tough unless you have a 7wt.

[@markrine]

What size nautilus x is that?

[@moscasunicas2851]

you didnt test imx pro ?

[@backbonz]

Is this shop no longer? Can’t find it unfortunately

[@afarley337]

It's cohutta fishing blue ridge now

[@billhammett174]

"grains" - don't we do pounds/ounces in the USA?

[@ashfaquemomin4387]

V good rod

[@theoutdoordad7395]

how does the 3F fair on sinking lines compared to the 3D?

[@JTGA38NG]

Dennis Johnson It is not going to do as well as the D. The F is set up more for accuracy and delicate presentation. It shines in those categories and would be a great tailwater trout rod, but would not feel great lined with matching sink line. The D would be preferable.

[@ricksmith3571]

On the other hand if you stalk the fish and if your knowledge of fish behaviour is tight you can get away chucking streamers on absolutely any rod with proper line. Read the water and fish the steamer. Stalking the fish is the name to this game You can do this with the cheapest rod you got. You can overload your rod with different lines. There is so much you can do and so many different lines out there. READ WATER, UNDERSTAND FISH BEHAVIOUR, STALK THE FISH and you'll kill it. No need for an expensive ros at all! If you are just getting into streamer fishing check out Fenwick Aetos. I have many rods including SAGE, ORVIS, ST CROIX, REDINGTON, bla bla bla...The Fenwick Aetos rod is compatable with any of the ones mentioned above and it's not more than 150-200 bucks.

[@JTGA38NG]

Rick Smith I think that is part of what we got across in the video. I don't think at any point I said that you needed the most expensive rod. In fact I raved about the least expensive one. That all of them were good when set up correctly. We just wanted to give an overview of the different options out there and clearly could jot cover everything in one video. Although we are doing that in writing.

[@fairviewhomestead]

I thought this explained everything beautifully and helped me out a lot. It can get frustrating knowing what set up to use and buying something that doesn't do the job (even 150$) can be aggravating! I am mostly a lake/pond guy (due to my location) but occasionally fish trout streams and rivers in Western NC. I have been wanting to get a new rod other than 5wt and was stuck between 6 and 7. I will definitely be testing out some 7s very soon. I dig the Foundation and the Predator, so it will be a toss up. Thanks for the info!

[@shanemccoy8058]

+Rick I agree with you on certain aspects. A good fly fisher can cast anything and set it up to work for them, however if you get into the nitty gritty details of high end rods, you will find that they magnify your casting qualities, are lighter, more sensitive and response, the cork feels nicer, the line shoots through the guides more smoothly, they are more durable, and backed by insanely good warranties. The Aetos is a great rod and I've heard great things about it. I have not casted one, but I theorize that it would not stand up well to better built graphite, just my opinion. +Benjamin ABee, the Foundation is a cool rod, but I would look into the previous rods in that category such as the Response and Approach. My buddy runs a Response 586-4 and caught two brown trout yesterday streamer fishing it. I owned an Approach 586-4 for a brief period and it was great rod overall, didn't throw streamers on it. I think the older models look better, not too keen on the matte finish and metal hardware on the Foundation in the lower wts because I really love SAGE's wood inserts and I think they are starting to skimp on their entry level rod build quality.

[@fairviewhomestead]

@@shanemccoy8058 I dig the Approach as well. Can't find em now. :( FnS had them for a while on sale, but now they are all gone. My wife just bought me a Moonshine drifter for Trout fishing. I am still looking into a new streamer rig. Probably go 6wt fast action. I have cast a few I really like!

[@shanemccoy8058]

@@fairviewhomestead, there's 3 6 wt Approach's on EBay right now. Well, if you're looking for fast action SAGE I recommend a VXP, Bolt, or Method. I've personally witnessed my friend who is a muskie junkie throw 6 inch streamers on his 690 with 250 gr Scientific Anglers Streamer Express. I could not believe he was doing that with that light of a rod! Bolt, is a budget Method. I have a Method 890 and it is an absolute cannon, straight wind cutter. I have purchased some Orvis line (depth charge 300 gr full sink) (5 IPS). Honestly I wish I would have gone with a 7 wt, the 8 is overkill, feels more like a 9 wt. Yeah, I think a 6 wt is a great rod overall to have in your quiver and most certainly an ideal streamer rod, happy hunting!

[@redshaftedflicker]

What about the Redington butterstick? lol

[@fairviewhomestead]

Those are great for articulated streamer dropper (with splitshot) set ups. Mostly used for Marlin and Tiger Sharks. haha!

[@jamesbrede8700]

You guys are so right !!!! 3,5,7,wt NOT 4,6,8,wt but tell the world that today!

[@cwoods1132]

I'd say 3wt, 5wt, 8wt.... OCD kicks-in, but think in terms of targeting fish - rather than symmetrical numbering. A noticeable difference between my 5wt and 6wt; not monumental, but noticeable. Small stream trout on a dry fly and wet fly are FAR more fun on a 5wt, so if creek and small stream trout is your jam - 5wt. However, big river Montana, I can see bumping that to a 6wt or 7wt, bigger water. Utah, we don't need that haha. (RL= Regular-line; OL=Over-line; UL=Under-line) Panfish (1-2wt): 3wt - UL or RL Trout (4-6wt) --> Creek: 3wt - RL or OL; Stream: 5wt - UL or RL Bass: 7-9wt --> 5wt - RL or OL; or 8wt - UL, RL, or OL Pike and Musky (10-12wt) --> 8wt RL or OL

[@spudd78]

I have a #4 8,6ft 3F and it awesome.

[@johntucker9782]

I prefer the evens over the odds. The #4 does everything that a #3 can do, plus. And the #8 opens up every large fly possibility, fresh and salt water. The evens are more versatile.

[@riverwalker2173]

​@John Tucker but 7's are funner to cast

[@cheechwizard6541]

You should concentrate on stopping your forward cast way earlier.

[@cheechwizard6541]

The Ultimate 7 Weight streamer rod…. is not a single handed rod 😉 I’d say something like a Burkheimer 10’6”-11’ switch. A little shorter if you’re really into single hand casting, but really why would you?

[@sickend01]

Potato, potato.... Fly fishing isn't rocket science. This is more personal preference.

[@JoelSzymczyk]

250 gr is AFTMA standard 9 weight. So if your rod performs well with a 250 gr, you have a nine weight with a 7 weight sticker on it. I know this is 5 years old, and it's only getting more stupid as time goes by. I guess it's time to just abandon weight standard designations.

[@B58FTW]

Grain has nothing to do with sink rate.

[@steveg8322]

For those who'd rather shop than fish.

[@lokithebuilder1071]

Steve G you dont know what your talking about nob

[@seanearnest]

For those of us without access to a wide range of rods to try out in our local area, this and other similar shootout videos are very valuable indeed. I have never cast a rod heavier than a 5wt or anything other than floating line, so I am happy and grateful to hear the learned opinions of those who have. Of course there's no substitute for holding it in your hand, but again, for those like me looking to get the most for our admittedly limited dollars, I thank this fly shop and the testing team for their effort and time.

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