Iconic Winston

These three classic Winston fly rods through the years have seemed to stand out from the other models and are still sought out today by Winston enthusiasts. They represent the design philosophy and soul of the R.L. Winston Rod Company, probably more than all rod series produced in the company's history. I'm sure bamboo fans would offer a debate on which fly rods are regarded as Winston's most revered, but certainly these rods have maintained the respect and admiration of fly anglers who are Winston fans.

Winston Boron IIt 8'6" 4wt fly rod - this rod is great for throwing dry flies on medium to large rivers...part of a three rod quiver that goes with me quite often. Don't let the sensitive tip fool you, the rod is stronger than first impressions. Not long after the Boron IIt series of rods was launched, this 8'6" 4wt was dubbed the "staff of Moses" for it's sensitive yet powerful capabilities to cast small dry flies, yet bring in the the big trout.

Winston TMF WT 8' 4wt fly rod - this two piece rod is the "Tom Morgan Favorite" designed by Tom himself and was launched in 1989 to commemorate their 60 years of American fly fishing tradition.  When the rod first began being produced, the maker used IM6 blanks, spigot ferrule, German silver hood and sliding-band seat. They are still being made today using the WT blank with an uplocking reel seat. The rod is in its "sweet spot" when throwing a true-to-weight fly line and #16 dry fly on small to medium size streams.

Winston WT 8'6" 5wt fly rod - perhaps the most popular of Winston fly rods in the company's modern history. It's a great all round fly rod that can handle any kind of rigging an angler needs on larger trout streams. I've always liked 5 weight rods in the 8'6" length and this one is my favorite in that configuration. I'm absolutely sure that I lose fewer trout after the hook set with this rod than my other brands of 5 weight rods. That taper is impressive and reassuring when having tight lines with trout.