ICAST 2015 Coverage - Cheeky reels

ICAST 2015 Coverage

New Fly Rods and Reels From Douglas Outdoors

Date:	8/17/15
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	Douglas
Reviewer:	Wolbugger

Introduction: Last year we visited the folks at Douglas to take a peek at what this new company had to offer on both the conventional and fly-fishing side of things. Although still a very fresh brand within the industry, Douglas is rolling out quite an array of new products—especially considering the company's young age. Here's a tour through the fly-fishing lineup of what's coming from Douglas.

Sky fly rods will be the top-of-the-line offering from Douglas.

Lighter models have woven graphite seats, while heavier rods sport bluish-grey aluminum seats.

Sky Fly Rods: The new Sky fly rods are a premium offering from Douglas Outdoors. Finished in a striking bluish-grey color scheme, they utilize proprietary carbon fiber and nanotechnology for the utmost in performance. All rods will feature a fast action and be available in 9,10, and 11-foot lengths in line weights 3–10. Expect a price of $695 with availability in early 2016.

LRS rods tout dark blue coloration.

LRS Fly Rods: These “Lake, River, and Sea” fly rods are designed to deliver performance at a great value. Each rod features a two-piece design and a long 10-foot length for extra distance and line control. Offered in weights ranging from 6–10, each LRS comes with interchangeable 2 and 4-inch fighting butts as well as a cloth rod sock. MSRP is just $149.00 for any model.

Upstream rods are nice to look at and seem like they'd be a blast to fish on smaller waters.

The 6-piece Upstream rod packs down VERY small!

Upstream Fly Rods: Four new models join the ultra-light Upstream fly rod lineup. There will be a 6-foot 6-inch two-piece 3-weight ($350), 7-foot six-piece 3-weight ($425), 7-foot 6-inch six-piece 3-weight ($425), and 8-foot six piece 3-weight ($425). Each rod is complimented by an aluminum rod tube and rod sock.

The new Argus Rex reels exude simplicity and traditional style.

They are available ported........

Argus Rex Fly Reels: Three new “REX” reels join the currently-available Argus lineup of traditional click-check reels. Made in the USA, these high-capacity reels are great for switch and double-handed applications.

....or unported.

The #1 model will carry a DT9F line with 90 yards of backing or a WF10F with 170 yards of backing; the #2 model will hold a DT10F with 130 yards of backing or a WF10F with 300 yards of backing; and the big #3 reel will hold a DT11F with 220 yards of backing or a WF12F with a massive 400 yards of backing. MSRP is not yet listed.

Thanks to the Douglas team for showing us all the new items.

Conclusion: Douglas Outdoors is obviously very focused on continuing to build a solid brand that offers products to all types of anglers. From trout to saltwater, from entry-level to high-end, they have you covered. Besides the Sky fly rods, expect most other products to be out by sometime this fall. We enjoyed visiting them this year and look forward to what they have to show off at the next show!