3. (tie) Thomas & Thomas DNA 11’9” 5-weight $925.00
Here is your powerhouse of the shootout. The T&T DNA is lightweight, and explosive. When it comes to punching spey casts into a 30+ mph wind all day, it is easily king of the river. Although this rod is not as long as others, it has no problem casting equally as far, if not the farthest.
Anglers who prefer a slower action might want to stay away from a rod this stiff and aggressive. But for anglers who often fish in windy areas, the T&T DNA is one of the best rods on the market. It would also be a good choice for fishing heavy sink tips like 10 feet of T18 to dredge the deeper, slower runs in the winter. Fish it with confidence and be proud of it’s spectacular craftsmanship.
The T&T DNA blanks are finished in a handsome deep blue with emerald green wraps and red trim over Fuji stripping guides and Universal snake guides. Like Winston, T&T writes the serial number on each section of the rod which also serve as alignment dots. The cork quality is impeccable and the shape of the grip is different from others, more of a cigar taper than an upward swell at the forward end, which looks different but classy. The pewter grey milled aluminum down-lock reel seat works well and looks elegant with the added Thomas and Thomas engraving. A hard tube and cloth bag are included.
An additional bonus – when we originally tested the T&T DNA 11’9″#5 it was $1,055.00, but now the price has dropped $130.00 down to $925.00!
Casting Notes:
Wow. This rod has a TON of power. Easily the long bomb king, and the best rod here when punching into the wind, despite its shorter length. The DNA feels insanely light too – only the Beulah Platinum had a lighter swing weight. If only this rod were a little longer, it would make mending and high sticking a little easier. I would like to see a 12′ or 12’6″#5 TNT DNA that is equally light and powerful – that would be the ulitmate windy day weapon for swinging flies to big trout.