Here’s a truly great rod for heavy-duty freshwater applications and light-duty saltwater use. It casts like a bullet in the wind and has the power to handle all salmon species. It is the rod of choice for flats fishing when the wind comes up, and it will pull a big redfish back to the boat in a heartbeat. Bass fly fishermen love this model because it has the power to handle the large, bulky deer hair flies and poppers so popular for taking big largemouth out of lily pads and heavy cover. When the river gets a freshet and waters rise, the steelheader turns to the #9 for heavier lines and larger flies. It is a great all-around big fish rod. 

The 9-foot 12-weight is your all around best choice for tarpon of 60 pounds or more. This rod is designed to cast and present flies with power and precision. Because it loads into the middle of the rod a bit, it is definitely what you’d call a “caster’s rod.” This rod is designed to put the brakes on fish like Mahi Mahi, Barracuda, and GT’s. Precise for both short casts and distance casting when you see them patrolling the flats.