Fly Fishing

dann · Location: Lancaster pa

Dose anyone have or casted/fished one of these rods. Is Echo a quality brand for the price? I was looking at some TFO stuff today and I think I would rather spend the extra 100 to 200 and get a mid grade Sage and have pice of mind. But I dont have any one around me that carries Echo.

Dan

c-hip · Location: San Diego, California

Echo2 over TFO any day...I have both and I don't even use the TFO anymore.

mgedge · Posted: Sun 09/04/11 3:26 pm Post subject: Echo 2

I went looking for a 10 wt early this year to enhance my saltwater collection. My brother in law suggested I check out the Echo 2, based on the reputation of the builder; Tim Rajeff. Turned out that the Echo 2 was being replaced, but I got a deal on a demo from a shop in Milwaukee.

The Echo 2 came with two rod tips; one labeled A for accuracy and the other D for distance. I tend to have trouble loading up the fast action rods, but the Echo 2 with the A tip in particular worked very well for me.

The current Echo rod that replaced the Echo 2 is the Echo Edge. The company told me that the Edge was designed to perform like the Echo 2 with the A tip. They have an excellent warranty and Rajeff knows something about rods! (So does his brother. Gary who designs for Loomis.) I wouldn't hesitate to buy an Echo ... but. like you, I prefer to have a couple of rods in my hand to try and compare. Consider purchasing online from a place with a good return policy, so you can try it out on the yard, but return it if it's doesn't suit your casting stroke.

I think the new TFO BVK rods certainly deserve a look. The Yellowstone Angler guys just finished their 8 wt. comparison and the BVK did exceptionally well compared to the very best (and most expensive) rods.

You might also check out Rise Fishing (on-line only). They are starting to generate some buzz, but since they don't sell thru dealers (saves us $$), comparing rods is harder. I just inquired about their return policy and am waiting to hear back.