ICAST 2014 Coverage - Pro4X Fly Rods

ICAST 2014 Coverage

New specialty fly rods from G. Loomis designed to help you fish like a PRO!

Date:	7/17/14
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	G.Loomis
Reviewer:	Wolbugger

Introduction: It's no secret that G. Loomis continues to make some of the greatest fishing rods to be found anywhere. As one of the most prominent builders on the market, it must be a daunting task constantly trying to come up with new and innovative products each year, but these folks never seem to disappoint. This year on the IFTD side of the Orlando convention center, Loomis showcased some new additions to their existing PRO4x family of fly rods.

Loomis unveiled some exciting new additions to the PRO4x lineup. The Pro4x was so well recieved at the show that the "Short Stix" won Best of Show in the Fly Fishing Rod Category

PRO4x Long Handle Predator (LHp): Featuring both a long name and a long handle, these new 9-foot rods allow the angler to cast with a single or two-handed style. The increased main and rear grips' overall length also allows for more efficient leverage during a heated battle. Loomis built these rods with a fast action and stiffer tip to help avoid tailing loops and handle shorter, stouter fly lines and bulky flies.

The grips on these rods facilitate either one or two-handed casting.

Constructed in 4-piece configurations, they will be offered in three weights including a 9/10 (375–425 grains), 10/11 (425–475 grains), and 12/13 (500–550 grains). Expect to pay $465.00 for the 9/10, $470.00 for the 10/11, and $475.00 for the 12/13. Each model is also adorned with Fuji K-frame stripper guides for tangle-free shots. You can get your hands on one beginning in about a month.

K-frame guides allow for clean and smooth line flow.

PRO4x ShortStix (SS): As the second new addition to the PRO4x lineup, ShortStix fly rods are all 7-foot 6-inch rods designed with an extra-fast taper. Like the Predator rods, they use a stiffened tip and are specifically engineered for casting of up to 80 or more feet with the new generation of short-head fly lines. It's actually said they are more effortless at longer distances than a traditional 9 footer—a claim we intend to test ourselves!

Now that is a grip that looks ready for battle!

K-framed stripping guides are featured on all sizes, and integrated fighting grips are used on heavier models. These 3-piece rods will come in weights including an 8/9 (300-350 grains), 9/10 (375-425 grains), 10/11 (425-475 grains), and 11/12 (475-525 grains). Expect an MSRP of $400.00 on the 8/9 and 9/10, and $425.00 for the 10/11 and 11/12. It will be a short wait for the ShortStix, as you can expect to see them become available in about a month from now.

Thanks to Steve Rajeff for showing us the new sticks.

Conclusion: Many years ago, it was hard to imagine G. Loomis ever straying from the stripped-down, stealthy appearance that their old school rods sported. Like anything else, things change and Loomis has steadily evolved over time. While the fly rods of the past remain old favorites, we are enthusiastic about the latest offerings and are eager to start tossing loops with one of these new specialty, now award winning, PRO4x rods!