ROD TEST

Rob Edmunds and Andrew Flitcroft put the latest 10ft seven-weight rods through their paces

ROB EDMUNDS is a successful competition angler. A reservoir bank and boat specialist.

IF THERE WERE ONE ROD SIZE OWNED BYthe majority of fly-fishers in the UK, the 10ft seven-weight would undoubtedly be a strong contender. Few stillwater anglers are without at least one because it is widely regarded as the first-choice for all but the lightest techniques.

Then there are the salmon-fishers, many of whom keep a 10ft seven-weight handy for small Highland rivers, low-water conditions in summer or the occasional away-day to their local lake, loch or reservoir. And, of course, no self-respecting sea-trout angler would be without one in their arsenal; they're perfect for single-handed speycasting.

Like its main competitor for the ‘bestseller’ title, the 9ft five-weight, it is the 10ft seven-weight's versatility that makes it great. The best examples will cast lines from a floater to a Di7 sinker and everything in between. It will present a dry-fly with accuracy and acceptable finesse, and yet also possess the power to throw a weighted Humongous, Snake or bulky surface lure. Bank or boat, loch or estuary, a quality 10ft seven-weight rod should do a decent job no matter what the quarry or conditions. Some anglers will have their preferences, either on the lighter or heavier side of the scale, but the truth is that, as an allrounder, it takes some beating.

We took ten models from different brands and handed them to two experienced anglers with very different needs and ideas about what makes a good 10ft seven-weight.