moonshine rod co the drifter series fly fishing rod

12 Foot 6 Inch Cadence CF20 Ian Gordon #6/8 DH Salmon 6 Piece Fly Rod & Tube

The 12’6″ Cadence CF20 Ian Gordon 6/8 DH Salmon 6-Piece Fly Rod & Tube is a specialized double-handed (DH) fly rod designed for salmon fishing, particularly in scenarios where long-distance casting and control over large flies are essential. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

Specifications:
– Length: 12 feet 6 inches (ideal for Spey casting and long-range presentations).
– Line Weight: 6/8 (versatile for both lighter and heavier salmon lines).
– Action/Design: Likely a progressive or medium-fast action, optimized for smooth Spey casts and mending.
– Pieces: 6-piece (highly portable for travel).
– Included: Comes with a protective tube for storage/transport.
– Model: Part of the Cadence CF20 series, possibly a collaboration with or endorsed by Ian Gordon, a notable figure in fly fishing.
– Limited Edition: Marked 6/8, suggesting it’s part of a small production run (8 total rods).

Intended Use:
– Salmon Fishing: Designed for two-handed Spey or overhead casting with salmon lines (e.g., Skagit, Scandi, or traditional DT lines).
– Versatility: The 6/8 rating allows flexibility for smaller grilse or larger spring salmon, depending on line choice.
– Travel-Friendly: The 6-piece design makes it easy to pack for destination fishing trips.

Notable Features:
– DH (Double-Handed): Optimized for two-handed casting techniques.
– “Salmon” Designation: Likely has a softer tip for delicate presentations but enough backbone for fighting big fish.
– Tube: Hard case ensures protection during transit.

Who It’s For:
– Spey Casters: Anglers who prefer two-handed rods for river fishing.
– Traveling Anglers: The 6-piece design suits those who fly or drive to remote salmon rivers.
– Collectors: Limited edition (6/8) may appeal to enthusiasts.

If you’re considering this rod, ensure the line weight matches your preferred salmon fishing style (e.g., lighter for summer runs, heavier for spring). Pair it with a large-arbor reel and a quality Spey line for best performance.

12 Foot 6 Inch Cadence CF20 Ian Gordon #6/8 DH Salmon 6 Piece Fly Rod & Tube

Would you like recommendations for lines or reels to match this rod?

Moonshine Rod Co. Fly Fishing Rod with Carrying Case and Extra Rod Tip Section,

The Moonshine Rod Co. Fly Fishing Rod is a well-regarded option for anglers seeking a high-quality, versatile rod at a mid-range price point. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its features, pros, cons, and ideal use cases:

Key Features:
1. Included Accessories:
– Hard or Soft Carrying Case: Protects the rod during transport (varies by model).
– Extra Rod Tip Section: Adds durability and peace of mind (useful if the tip breaks).
– Tubular Rod Sock: Some models include this for additional protection.

2. Construction & Design:
– Material: High-modulus graphite for a lightweight yet strong build.
– Action: Typically fast or medium-fast (varies by model), offering good casting accuracy and power.
– Finish: Handcrafted with a unique, rustic aesthetic (inspired by “moonshine” culture).

3. Models Available:
– Drifter Series: Versatile all-around rods (4-6 wt) for trout, bass, etc.
– Epic Series: Faster action for distance and wind-cutting (7-9 wt, ideal for saltwater/big fish).
– Voyager Series: Travel-friendly 4-piece rods.

4. Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty (varies; check Moonshine’s policy).

Pros:
✅ Durable & Reliable – Extra tip section reduces downtime if damaged.
✅ Good Value – Competes with higher-priced brands (e.g., Sage, Orvis) at a lower cost.
✅ Aesthetic Appeal – Unique, rustic look with quality craftsmanship.
✅ Versatile – Suitable for beginners and intermediate anglers.

Cons:

Moonshine Rod Co. Fly Fishing Rod with Carrying Case and Extra Rod Tip Section,

❌ Not Ultra-High Performance – May lack the sensitivity of premium rods (e.g., Scott, G. Loomis).
❌ Heavier Than Some Competitors – Graphite blend isn’t as light as top-tier rods.
❌ Warranty Limitations – Some users report slow replacement processes.

Who Should Buy It?
– Intermediate Anglers seeking a step up from entry-level rods.
– Travelers/Backpackers (Voyager series) needing a durable, multi-piece rod.
– Anglers Who Value Aesthetics – The rod’s design stands out.

Who Should Skip It?
– Professionals needing ultra-lightweight or hyper-sensitive rods.
– Tight Budgets – Cheaper options exist (e.g., Redington Path).

Alternatives to Consider:
1. Redington Classic Trout – Softer action, great for beginners.
2. Orvis Clearwater – Smoother casting, stronger warranty.
3. TFO Pro II – Affordable fast-action alternative.

Final Verdict: 4/5 ★★★★☆
The Moonshine Rod Co. Fly Rod offers excellent value with its included extras and solid performance, though it may not satisfy elite anglers. Ideal for those who want a reliable, stylish rod without breaking the bank.

Would you like help choosing a specific model (e.g., Drifter vs. Epic)?