spey lines that match the mk1 15 hardy gem well

[elwyman]

Alan, that will please Steve, but he is looking into getting a Meiser to add to his growing collection of rods and reels.

Steve - having plundered the ebay market for spey lines during the close season, you must have come to some conclusions yourself!

[Sloggi]

I used a 15' MkII for a day last season and it was pretty good - never tried the MkI.

However, I've been having a go with a Carron floater on my Sage 15 footer - I think it's got a 75' head although Willie Gunn might know otherwise as it's his line. It is superb - I've never cast so far so accurately Uttely amazing.

If it is so bad a rod, get it on ebay - Hardy stuff sells really well there - and buy a Sage 15' 1" Graphite IV with Carron floater

[Sloggi]

steve said:

I don't think there are any bad rods about nowadays. probably just varying degrees of excellence and some "SUITS YOU SIR " issues .
The Gem 1 is the only rod I've used that I've felt the need to line up beyond the manufactures light loading spec , it was this that partly prompted this thread.

Sloggi can you remember which weight Carron you used 1011 or 1112 ?
thanks

Hi Steve,

I think it was the 10/11 - but Willie Gunn will know. You could PM him to check.

Steve

[elwyman]

Steve,

As you know, I've often said that my Norway rod has a more "forgiving" action than the Gem. I think I'd agree with much of what Alan says - we have both said before that the Gem prefers an 11 to a 10 line.

I like my Gem, but prefer the Norway! The Gem has plenty of backbone, and it does well with the fast sink tips and big tubes we often use.

I tried the Gem with a 10/11 IG spey line at Foxons last year - it was nice, but it could be worth trying the 11/12 before buying.

PS going to open a bottle now to celebrate the unexpected win at Spurs.

[williegunn]

It was the 10/11

[elwyman]

springer said:

elwyman,

If its the IG 75' then you would definately need the 11/12, without question. In 65' it would be borderline IMO.

It was the 65' head I tried. The rivers I usually fish aren't wide enough to get the best out of longer heads.

[elwyman]

Well, after all that there might be 2x Gem mk1 rods on ebay soon. ;D ;D ;D

[elwyman]

I go fishing for the relaxation, and to admire the scenery.

[hardygem]

Just found this thread when looking for something else .
I have found the Snowbee 2D lines both the floating and sink tip work extremely well with this Rod
or should i say this absoloutely fabulous ,wonderful,perfectly balanced piece of fishing tackle magic ;D ;D ;D

[hardygem]

Steve,

The ones i have are 2D 62ft head in 10/11