Greys Kite Single Handed Fly Rod 9’6＂ #7
Paul George The Greys Kite Single Handed Fly Rod in 9’6″ 7 is a versatile and well-regarded fly rod designed for single-handed casting, suitable for a variety of freshwater and light saltwater applications. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and potential uses:
Key Features:
– Length & Line Weight: 9’6” (9 feet 6 inches) for a 7 weight line—offering a good balance of power and finesse.
– Action: Likely fast to medium-fast (common in modern Greys rods), providing good casting distance and accuracy while maintaining some flexibility for delicate presentations.
– Construction: Typically built with high-modulus graphite or composite materials for a lightweight yet powerful feel.
– Designed for: Single-handed overhead and roll casting, making it user-friendly for intermediate to advanced anglers.
Ideal Uses:
1. Freshwater:
– Larger trout in big rivers or lakes.
– Streamer fishing or nymphing with indicators (the extra length helps with line control).
– Smallmouth bass or pike (with appropriate leaders).
2. Light Saltwater:
– Coastal species like sea trout, bonefish (in calm conditions), or striped bass.
3. Versatility:
– The 9’6” length offers better line mending and control than a standard 9’ rod, while the 7 weight handles wind better than a lighter rod.
Pros:
– Longer length improves reach for mending and roll casting.
– 7 weight provides enough backbone for larger flies and windy conditions.
– Greys reputation for quality and durability (owned by Pure Fishing, same parent company as Hardy).
Cons:
– May feel slightly tip-heavy if balanced poorly with a lightweight reel.
– Not ideal for very tight, overgrown streams where shorter rods excel.
Recommended Pairings:
– Line: A weight-forward (WF) floating line for general use, or a sink-tip for streamers.
– Reel: A mid-arbor reel with a smooth drag (e.g., Greys GRX, Orvis Battenkill, or Lamson Liquid).
Who’s It For?
– Anglers needing a do-it-all rod for medium to large rivers or stillwaters.
– Those who prefer a longer single-handed rod for technical fishing.
– Fishers targeting species that demand a mix of precision and power.
If you’re considering this rod, test-casting it with your preferred line is always recommended to ensure it matches your style. Let me know if you’d like comparisons to other models!