The G. Loomis Asquith 9\u2032 6-weight fly rod, unveiled in January 2026, represents a significant leap forward in freshwater angling equipment. This review delves into its exceptional versatility and performance across various fishing techniques, highlighting its redesigned features and cutting-edge materials. While its premium price point and warranty costs are notable considerations, the rod's ability to handle diverse fly types and casting distances with remarkable accuracy positions it as a top-tier choice for dedicated anglers.
My initial encounter with the G. Loomis Asquith was nothing short of impressive. During a recent fishing excursion, I deployed a streamer pattern near a submerged log, executing an aggressive strip-set characteristic of Kelly Galloup's technique. The rod's responsiveness allowed me to effectively manage slack, resulting in a fierce strike from a rainbow trout. This immediate success solidified my growing appreciation for the rod, which I had been testing for over a week across different aquatic environments, including a sprawling river for bass and my local tailwater for various trout flies.
This latest iteration, the 9\u2032 6-weight Asquith, continues the legacy of its predecessor but with substantial enhancements. It is engineered to be an all-around fly rod for freshwater enthusiasts, particularly those who require a single rod capable of deploying a wide array of trout flies. Its moderate-fast action blank, which flexes deeper into the rod, is particularly adept at streamer fishing with sinking lines. Yet, it maintains the finesse needed for precise dry fly placement, even when targeting wary trout. Priced at $1,570, this rod is positioned as a high-end option for anglers seeking unparalleled performance.
The current Asquith model distinguishes itself from previous versions through several key innovations. Despite retaining the same renowned name, a common practice for G. Loomis when incorporating technological advancements, the rod is fundamentally redesigned. This evolution mirrors significant product updates seen in other leading brands, such as Sage's transition from the Sage X to the R8, or Orvis's shift from the H3 to the Helios series. These changes signify a new era for fly rod technology, offering enhanced capabilities to discerning anglers.
A core improvement lies in the utilization of Spiral X Core Carbon technology. While the original Asquith featured Spiral X carbon, this new version integrates an upgraded iteration manufactured in Kumamoto, Japan. Despite the overseas production of the graphite, the rods undergo design, assembly, and finishing processes in Woodland, Washington. G. Loomis states that this next-generation blank provides exceptional bending, torsional, and compressional rigidity, leading to superior recovery, energy transfer, and strength, all while maintaining a remarkably light swing weight. These advancements in graphite technology are pivotal for enhancing accuracy, reducing weight, and increasing the overall durability of fly rods, making this a cutting-edge offering in the market.
Another significant, and more visually apparent, upgrade is the reimagined reel seat. Described by Loomis as a \u201ccustom fixed hood\u201d design, it deviates considerably from conventional reel seats. I found this design to be highly advantageous. Unlike traditional ring-and-cork setups that often loosen during active fishing, this custom hood design seamlessly integrates with the cork handle, providing a completely secure fit for the reel. This enhanced stability was evident even after traversing rough, unpaved roads with the rod secured in a rod tube, a scenario that typically dislodges reels on other rods. Furthermore, the ergonomic design of the reel seat, with its thinner profile at the base, offers a comfortable and streamlined grip that perfectly molds to the hand, enhancing overall feel and control. It also includes a fighting butt, a feature absent in the previous 6-weight Asquith, suggesting subtle changes to the rod's overall taper.
Ultimately, the G. Loomis Asquith 9\u2032 6-weight is an extraordinarily versatile instrument, ideal for anglers like myself who engage in diverse fishing styles, from intricate nymph rigs to aggressive streamer casting. Its moderate-fast action delivers an excellent tactile connection and a degree of finesse, yet it possesses ample power to manage heavy setups. This rod strikes an impressive balance, offering a \u201ctrout-like\u201d feel while maintaining the robust capabilities needed for larger rivers and heavier flies. It can also perform delicate tasks when required, making it an invaluable tool for multi-species freshwater anglers. As the saying goes, if you have the resources, acquiring this rod is a highly recommended investment for enhancing your angling experience.