Author Topic: 10'3wt Shadow Line/Reel (Read 755 times)

Caleb Bagley · « **on:** July 15, 2011, 12:25:52 PM »

I'm looking for a new reel and also new line to match my Shadow (10ft 3wt). I'm looking at the Rio Nymph WF 4wt line and wanted to know if you guys thought that would work well on the rod. And if anybody has a reel reccomendation I'm open to anything. Thanks for any help.

Bob Lux · « **Reply #1 on:** July 15, 2011, 12:35:08 PM »

I bought the 10.5' 3wt and tried using it with a bar stock 3wt reel I had and found it was too light of a reel for that rod length. I have since been using a Lamson Konic 1.5 and that balances with the rod much better. I imagine it would probably be the same with the 10' 3wt.

Caleb Bagley · « **Reply #2 on:** July 15, 2011, 02:26:15 PM »

Thanks Bob, I had actually been looking at the konic. would you recommend going up a line weight? Most of the time the line won't be used but if I need to throw a dry dropper rig I want to be able to.

Dejon Hamann · « **Reply #3 on:** July 15, 2011, 02:47:30 PM »

The Konic is a great value. Good reel with an awesome drag. Personally I'd stick a 2.0 on that rod.

I'd also consider a cartridge reel system like an entry level Greys. You get multiple spools per reel and can easily add lines. I have "junk" lines underneath my long river leader systems. This way I can make a permanent line/leader connection and just swap cartridges when I want to use another leader.

I haven't done a lot straight casting with my 10.5 3wt Shadow, but I'd say 4wt line would be more appropriate.

Mark Hanes · « **Reply #4 on:** July 15, 2011, 02:58:24 PM »

I have fished wets on the 10.5' 3wt this spring and I would say the 4wt seems to match up perfectly with it if you plan on doind any casting applications other than the long leader nymphing.

Caleb Bagley · « **Reply #5 on:** July 15, 2011, 04:02:00 PM »

Thanks for the help guys.

Dejon-- What Grey's system would you reccomend? I saw some with the extra spools that did catch my eye. I've looked at the GRXI's and they are 6.8 ounces, the Konic is 4.4 I believe. Would a Greys not be too heavy?

Dell Neighbours · « **Reply #6 on:** July 15, 2011, 07:35:15 PM »

Caleb, I have the 10.5 footer and my reel is about six ounces and it's still tip heavy, the greys will match up nicely...

Dejon Hamann · « **Reply #7 on:** July 15, 2011, 09:14:18 PM »

When we're talking about Euro Nymphing and "High Sticking" techniques I really don't think 1 or 2 ounces matters at all. Many of these longer rods would take inordinately large reels to "correctly" balance. Plus, it's not going to be the reel that fatigues you after time... it's actually your arm! lol Just hold it up in the air right now for 10 minutes.

Remember, the GRXI Reels were just recently discontinued. You might be able to get a steal on one right now but make sure you also get enough cartridges to last you a lifetime.

I'm sure the next gen is just as good. Where's Kalvin? He just got some.