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[Clarki Hunter]

Just wondering if anyone has made the switch or felt the difference between the older XP and the new Z axis?  Perhaps someone could throw a comparison to a Loomis rod as well.

Thanks

[mastercaster]

Just had a couple of 10' z-axis rods built up in a 4 wt. and a 5 wt...haven't tried the 5 wt yet because I'm still using my 10' 5 wt. XP.  So far all I can tell you is that I really like the 4 wt.  It's quick, powerful and casts like a dream!  I'm heading back up to the cabin tomorrow night and feel it's time to break out the z-axis 5 wt.  After this weekend I can probably tell you more.

BTW, Kelly at Searun says his all time favourite rod is his 10' z-axis 4 wt. so that might tell you something.  Can't see how you can go wrong with either rod because I sure do like my XP, as well!  Cheers~

[Chrome Mykiss]

In line weights 3-5 both rods are fairly similar, but I would take an XP over a Z-axis in rod weights 6-8. The XP's are faster stiffer rods in general which really helps generate high line speed for shooting line and punch out line in the wind. The Z-axis has a bit more soul which are great for presentation and line control, but with hauling you can still launch a long cast. 

I just got an old school G. Loomis 6wt GLX, all matte black, which feels really fast and responsive. I'll let you know how it compares when I put some more water time with it 

[Clarki Hunter]

Thanks for the responses.  I do realize that alot has to do with personal preferece but it's very helpful to hear of what other's feel in these twigs. 

I'm trying to fill a 6wt gap (have reel no rod) and just need some help deciding.  I would like to hear how things are going with your rods. 

Thanks!

[Speychucker]

Agree with Chrome Mykiss, I have a 8100 XP which has been my work horse for salmon and some steelhead for abot 4 yrs now, when I'm not using the spey. But having said that, today I bought a 6101-4 Z-Axis for some coho fishing this fall, my XP is a bit over kill for coho IMO.

[Clarki Hunter]

Agree with Chrome Mykiss, I have a 8100 XP which has been my work horse for salmon and some steelhead for abot 4 yrs now, when I'm not using the spey. But having said that, today I bought a 6101-4 Z-Axis for some coho fishing this fall, my XP is a bit over kill for coho IMO.

As a newbie to fly fishing,  I'm curious as to why an 8wt is over kill for coho?  And have you gotten out with the Z?  What lenght did you get?

[koko]

As a newbie to fly fishing,  I'm curious as to why an 8wt is over kill for coho?  And have you gotten out with the Z?  What lenght did you get?

I use a 6 or 7wt for coho, 8 IMO is over kill also. You can change direction on the the fish or use the river flow to your advantage to land the fish quicker. But 8wt is a very good around rod, we alway get into some chum or spring even you don't intend.

[Clarki Hunter]

Grabbed a 6wt for the pinks and coho...  I'll save the 8wt for my attempt at steelhead.

[Speychucker]

Most of the coho that I catch in and around the LM are under 10lbs, with the odd exception. So the 8wt is a bit over kill IMO, use it for steelhead along with my spey rods.
Haven't used the Z yet, but I'm starting holidays after today . The Z I bought is a 6101-4, can't wait! Look out pinks 

[Clarki Hunter]

Most of the coho that I catch in and around the LM are under 10lbs, with the odd exception. So the 8wt is a bit over kill IMO, use it for steelhead along with my spey rods.
Haven't used the Z yet, but I'm starting holidays after today . The Z I bought is a 6101-4, can't wait! Look out pinks 

10' for a bit more distance I'm assuming?  The shop said that it's better for trolling as well?

Lotsa luck on the pink hunt!  My timing has been bad, everytime I go out it's quiet. 

[koko]

10' for a bit more distance I'm assuming?  The shop said that it's better for trolling as well?

Lotsa luck on the pink hunt!  My timing has been bad, everytime I go out it's quiet. 

10' for better mending, I don't find to give me more distance. It seem the action is slower because of the bigger arc

[Speychucker]

10' for a bit more distance I'm assuming?  The shop said that it's better for trolling as well?

Lotsa luck on the pink hunt!  My timing has been bad, everytime I go out it's quiet. 

Personally I would think a shorter rod would be better for trolling, but I don't do much lake fishing or trolling.
I  bought the 10' for a bit more distance while beach fishing and chasing coho in still waters, it's what works for me.
Someone once said "walk quietly and carry a big stick"

[Clarki Hunter]

I went with the 9' for now.  May do up a 10' later on when my needs change.  I'm sure glad I got a 6wt tho...  you guys were right pinks are FUN on a 6.   

[koko]

I went with the 9' for now.  May do up a 10' later on when my needs change.  I'm sure glad I got a 6wt tho...  you guys were right pinks are FUN on a 6.   

Good for you, wait till you get a 14lb Coho on it.

[Clarki Hunter]

Good for you, wait till you get a 14lb Coho on it.

After the last couple of days I'm starting to wonder    These pinks really bend the heck outta the rod.  So much fun catching pinks on the 6wt Z!!!  As for the Coho, I'll probably have to run after a 14lber!