Hardy & Greys - Alnwick, England

"I Would Recommend it to Anyone" Trout & Salmon's Andrew Flitcroft on the Latest 10ft 5wt Rods

Trout & Salmon magazine's Andrew Flitcroft recently put a selection of the latest 10ft #5 trout rods through their paces. These rods are an increasingly popular option for bank and boat fishing on reservoirs and lochs - a lighter outfit (as opposed to the more usual six and seven weight options) can significantly increase your catches and overall enjoyment.

Flitcroft was looking for a rod that delivers a fly, or team of flies "accurately, softly and if necessary, quickly" and also needed the rod to roll cast effectively to help pick up. Most importantly, he was looking for rods that were easy to fish with.

Once again, the Hardy and Greys rods on test came out well, with both the Greys XF2 Streamflex and the Hardy Marksman2 gaining a 'Recommended' stamp from the reviewer. 

Comments on the Greys XF2 Streamflex:
"A lovely rod... it roll casts well and shoots line effortlessly. I would have no hesitation in recommending this rod to fishers of all abilities. It will be a delight with which to cast and play fish"

Comments on the Hardy Marksman2:
"Another great rod that offers superb feel. It roll casts very well and delivers a fly accurately and at distance, if needed. It is also very forgiving so it will suit all casting abilities... I would recommend it to anyone.

"Of the more expensive rods, I would recommend two models that really were outstanding, delivering flies accurately at all distances and with minimal effort - the good-looking Hardy Marksman2 (£429) and the wand-like Sage One (£655)."

Read the full review to find out more about why Flitcroft chooses to fish with a 5 weight, the full criteria for the test and of course to find out the full results for each of the 14 rods on test.

Download the PDF opposite, or pick up July's Trout & Salmon in all good newsagents.