Douglas DXF - I bought my 6 wt DXF from Steve sight unseen based on reviews and Steve's reputation. It is wonderful and has a particular feel that seems to match my casting style. The action is quite dynamic and imparts a lot of energy at the end of the back cast and also the same on the front cast. Value for money. Certainly.

Outstanding - The Douglas rods are outstanding. I’ve owned and have cast quite of lot of quality rods over 40 years. That has included, Hardy, Fenwick, Kilwell, TFO, Sage, and now Douglas. I have a DXF 5 wt which is now my primary rod for nymphs, small wets and dry flies, plus a DXF 6 wt for heavier weather and big streamers. However, I find that I’m using the 5 wt more, even in quite windy conditions. I’ve been fishing with these rods for two seasons now, and these rods will have to be prised from my cold dead hands when I go. At short distance, I can put the fly exactly where I want it, but the rod has the power for quick 20+ m cast. What is most impressive is how well the rods handle fish up to 5 lb, but a one pounders still feels like a good fish. The DXF scored within 5% of the points of its winning sibling Sky G on the Yellowstone Shootout. I really can’t tell the difference. I did manage to break the tip of the 6wt last season. The replacement came within days and fitted perfectly – top service.