A 6wt fly rod is not necessarily the ideal rod for the Gunpowder River, but it’s a good stick for larger rivers and the bigger trout and smallmouth they hold and ideal for sinking lines and flies. A sturdy 6wt can also manage chunky largemouths and carp in local ponds. And it can still hold its own on most Gunpowder situations. At Backwater Angler, we have several 6wts to chase these fish on larger bodies of local water such as the Susquehanna River, North Branch of the Potomac River, or local reservoirs.
Entry level
St. Croix Mojo Trout – $200
Mojo Trout Fly Rod
These are extremely smooth casting, versatile fly rods ideal for beginners and intermediate anglers alike. The Mojo Trout features premium, high-modulus SCIII graphite across the two- and four-piece models. On the Gunpowder, these 6wt fly rods do cover all the trout-specific fly fishing applications – streamers, dries, nymphs, terrestrials, wets – without breaking the bank. When I cast this rod, it feels appropriately like a 6wt: not quite the heavy tightness that larger rods possess, but sturdy enough for a taught, accurate case and durable to manage average and larger fish alike. In short, these four-piece rods are the heavier end of lighter-weight rods. The classic feel of its cigar grip reminds us of exactly that.
St. Croix Imperial – $300
St. Croix Imperial
The rod makers from Park Falls, Wisconsin created the Imperial series from a dynamic blend of high-modulus/high-strain SCIV graphite and premium quality SCII graphite, and in doing so, set the standard for a premium U.S. built rod. These lightweight, fast action rods are extremely versatile and perform like a much more expensive rod. The 9’ 6wt offers light action, a classic cigar grip, slim profile ferrules, and a classic Kigan hook keeper. The Sea Guide snake guides come with a black PVD coating for extra hardness and increased smoothness. The reel seat is uplocking and machined aluminum. These four-piece rods come with a rugged rod case with a handle and polypropylene liner.
Mid-level
Loomis IMX Pro – $495
G Loomis IMX-Pro
Built to the unrelenting specifications of professional fishing guides, the IMX-PRO series is comprised of 15 purpose driven designs to meet the performance demands of modern freshwater fishing. Striking the ultimate balance of handsome appointments, positive feel, and unflinching durability, IMX-PRO is a game-changing addition to the serious angler’s quiver. The 9’ 6wt model provides excellent action, easy casting, and maintains an ideal balance of being both sturdy and agile. This four-piece rod really excels at the reel seat, where it boasts a Full Wells grip, a useful reel butt for playing larger fish, and an aluminum reel seat and screws.
Higher-end
Loomis Asquith – $1,000
G Loomis Asquith
The Asquith series is the culmination of global cooperation in design, materials, and manufacturing techniques. Built on Shimano’s proprietary Spiral X platform, the Asquith boasts superb power transfer from tip to hand, quick recovery, and increased sensitivity. Designed by world casting champion Steve Rajeff, the Asquith is an exploratory step into the future of rod manufacturing technology. With fast actions, generous power levels, titanium guides, and exceptionally light swing weight, all rods in the series excel in fishing situations where developing high line speed and making precise casts means success. The four-piece, 9’ 6wt model of this series offers fast action excellent for casting short and long distances.
