Scierra PPT 9-Weight Saltwater Fly Rod

I've been looking for a good balanced fly rod suitable for saltwater fishing for ages. It needed to cover several criteria, mainly be suitable for bass and pollack fishing in the UK, but also double up when I get the chance to fish overseas for small tuna and the like.

I came across the Scierra 9-weight at Sportfish down in Hereford and it's turned out to be one of the best buys I've ever made.

The Scierra is made in Denmark. The blank is three-piece making 9ft in all and is a high-carbon mix. The tip and intermediate rings are chromed, with the two butt rings being a minimum friction lined type. The cork grip is a Full Wells, with the reels seat a tough screw thread alloy pattern that shows no sign of corrosion after repeated use. The butt cap is a cork type with rubber base. The blank is a beautiful blue colour and it's nice to have something different than the now typical graphite grey or green blanks that most manufacturers seem to favour. Being three-piece it's also easier for travelling with.

Performance wise the Scierra has proved exceptional. It is perfectly balanced with 9-weight lines, but will handle 10's if need be. It is fast-action with a fast pick up of line from the water, loads well and gives good timing indication. There is plenty of power in the butt to apply pressure to fast running fish and steer them clear of snags, but you can still have fun with the smaller fish. Given a quality balanced line the rod shoots line brilliantly and maximises the casters own potential. It is lightweight and fatigue is minimal during a prolonged casting session.

The Scierra PPT Saltwater rods are available in 8 weight at £155, in 9-weight as reviewed retailing for £159, and in a 10-weight for £165.