After some time I have put together a Fly Rod/Reel package and line that epitomizes High Performance.  As mentioned in a previous article, I received a Winston BIIMX 5wt with a fighting butt, and promised a test ride.  The package includes a Galvan Torque T-4, backed with 100yds 30lb Gel Spun backing, and a Scientific Anglers Sharkskin 6wt fly line.  This combination provided me with the in the hand balance I like but may not be for everyone.

First and foremost, as you would expect from Winston, the craftsman ship is flawless, and the new Fighting Butt reel seat is a pleasure to look at as well as its ability to houze a reel with rubberized compression rings between the lockers.  This rod, held comfortably at your side, feels extremely lightweight for a 5wt.  Without lining it, it is noticeably stiffer than the Winston you are familiar with.

For testing purposes, I chose Airflo's Ridge in 5wt, Orvis' Wonderline Easy Mend in both 5 and 6wt, and Scientific Anglers GPX 6, Expert Distance 6, and of course the New Sharkskin in both 5 and 6wt.

Generally the biggest suprise was how easy unrolling loops in various sizes is given the fact that this is a very fast rod, touted as Winston's fastest 5wt ever built.  For overall performance I preferred 6wt fly lines, however the 5wts worked well especially when the carry was extended to the 55ft range.  Loading for distance with the 5wt lines was accomplished easily by quick rotation with the 55ft carry and easily shot an additional 25ft of line along with it.

For maximum performance at range with the least amount of effort, I prefer one of the 6wt lines, and hands down it was the Expert Distance or the Sharkskin.  These lines with their compound heads unrolled well at all distances, and it was possible to clear the Sharkskin from the rod tip from time to time.  With a little work I may be able to clear the 10ft longer Expert distance with this rod.  Although this rod can go long, what I enjoyed most is the incredibly tight loops accomplisged at close range.  No question that extreme accuracy is possible with this rod, and if casting in the wind has been a problem you will really enjoy this rod.  I am a bonified "Big Ugly" streamer guy and look forward to "Throwing Bulk" with this stick which I expect will be handled easily.

If you haven't, regardless if you are in the market or not, go to a shop and give it a whirl.  My guess is you will be pleasantly suprised. 

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As luck would have it, I have just received my copy of Winston's BII MX in Full Wells, Fighting Butt, 5wt.  Touted as Winston's Fastest 5wt ever produced, I am looking forward to lining it up this evening and putting it through its paces from my dock.

As you would expect from Winston, the craftsman ship is flawless, and the new Fighting Butt reel seat is a pleasure to look at as well as its ability to houze a reel with rubberized compression rings between the lockers.

Almost can't imagine it out-performing its predicessor the BIIX as 90 footers were possible with that models 4wt!  Will keep you posted with the performance update.

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