2020 took us down to Florida to test the latest and greatest 8-weight rods on the market. After a couple of weeks of casting, fishing, and crunching the numbers the new G. Loomis NRX + was crowned the winner of our 2020 8 Weight Challenge. The new lightweight, smooth, and powerful G.Loomis NRX+ is the workhorse of general-purpose saltwater fly rods. Packing an insane amount of power and performance this rod has the punch and accuracy you’ll need to make any cast out on the flats.
Our pick for the top 8-weight reel to match up with the G. Loomis is the Hatch Iconic 7+. We have found that this reel has a ton of capacity, using Hatch 68 lb. backing, to hold 200 yards plus a WF-8-F line. The waterproof, sealed drag system is one of the best in the business. With absolutely no start-up inertia, this is the smoothest drag system we have found on any saltwater reel. These are beautiful reels that use a quick-change system, so changing spools is quick and easy.
Outfit Breakdown
G.Loomis NRX+ 9’#8 4pc fly rod…………………………………… $990.00
Hatch Iconic 7+ Large Arbor (your color choice) …………….. $815.00
Scientific Angler’s Mastery Saltwater WF-8-F line ………………$79.95
295 yards of Hatch 68lb. Backing ……………………………………..$85.00
Bonefish Leader (rigged and ready to fish) ………………………….$6.95
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Sub total: $1,976.90
Free Line, backing and leader <$171.90>
Free Rigging (ready to fish): –
Free Shipping: –
No Tax: –
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Grand Total: $1,805.00
