Where the Curado I series really shines is in the new Infinity Braking System which offers anglers unmatched brake settings. With this, anglers have the ability to adjust the angle of the brake collar to increase or decrease braking without having to take the reel apart. This means more precise casts, and hopefully, no more backlashes. The cast control knob, Quickfire II thumb bar and ability of the reel to cast light weight longer distances (great for sidedrifting), also helps make it a state-of-the-art piece of equipment.
With a new reel came a new rod, actually rods. For fishing smaller streams and lighter gear, I went with a G.Loomis IMX 1043 casting rod. This 8’8” fast-action rod handles 3/8-3/4-ounce riggings and 6-12-pound line. For the bigger rivers I fish, I went with the IMX 1165, also a two-piece, fast-action rod, but at 9’8” it’s rated for 3/8-1-ounce and 8-17-pound line.
Right out of the gate the rod’s overall light weight, ergonomic cork handle and sensitivity made these rods the best I’d ever used, period. I spend time fishing with some great anglers, men like Buzz Ramsey, Nick Amato, my dad and others, all of whom are better anglers than I’ll ever be. I’m often asked, what makes these guys so good. If I had to narrow it down to one thing, it would be feel. They can feel the bottom and detect the slightest bite better than anyone I’ve fished with. The new IMX offers a sensitive feel for the average angler that I believe rivals what these top anglers must feel.
The new technology introduced in this line of IMX rods makes them considerably lighter than earlier graphite rods, thanks to the higher modulus graphite and higher tensile strength of the blanks. The IMX series is manufactured in the U.S.A., and once you feel these rods, you’ll know what makes them so unique.
There you have it. Top gear, not cheap by any means, but worth every penny if it helps you catch more fish.
Note: For signed copies of Scott Haugen’s popular book, Bank Fishing For Steelhead & Salmon, send a check for $17.00 (includes S&H) to Haugen Enterprises, P.O. Box 275, Walterville, OR 97489. This and other how-to books, including cookbooks, can be ordered online at www.scotthaugen.com.