TFO Elevare Fly Rod Review
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TFO has released their newest Euro Nymphing Fly Rod, the Elevare. The Elevare is TFO’s premium tactical nymphing rod, featuring noteworthy upgrades from the TFO Stealth. For intermediate anglers looking to take their euro nymphing game to the next level, the Elevare represents a step up in componentry, lightweight balance, and casting performance. If you’re a fan of TFO rods and considering upgrading your euro setup for 2025, keep reading to learn more about the new TFO Elevare, including pros and cons, ideal uses, and build quality.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight
- Solid componentry
- Decent value under $500
Cons
- Not the best recovery speed
- Snub-nose half wells grip isn’t ideal for euro nymphing
Who It’s For
The Elevare is a great choice for anglers who need a mid-priced nymphing rod that’s designed for long mono rigs, light indicator nymphing, and dry-dropper rigs. While it’s also very capable of tightline nymphing, it lacks the sensitivity to make it a go-to rod for extra long, micro-thin leader setups, where detecting subtle ticks is the name of the game. For most intermediate anglers who dabble across various tactical nymphing techniques, the Elevare will represent a solid value rod that’s well-built and fairly versatile.
Outfit
Fit & Finish
TFO rods generally focus on performance and value rather than eye-catching bling, and the new Elevare follows suit. Sporting a matte grey paintjob and a fairly standard overseas build quality, the Elevare is a good looking production rod, but nothing to write home about. It features a miniature composite fighting butt (on the 10’ 6” 3wt model), a single downlocking reel seat, and a unique snub-nosed half wells grip. While the grip shape does feel very comfortable in hand, we found it to be awkward for actual fishing scenarios, when a modified grip is used for euro nymphing techniques. The rod is completed with a lightweight Recoil stripping guide, and single foot guides to the tip-top. Overall, the Elevare features solid componentry that is meant to reduce weight and improve balance.
Flex & Feel
The TFO Elevare Euro Nymphing Fly Rod features a slightly deeper flex profile compared to many euro rods, offering an easy, comfortable casting stroke but sacrificing some sensitivity for detecting the most subtle strikes. This makes it an excellent choice for anglers who primarily rely on watching the sighter or prefer mono rigs with small indicators or dry-dropper setups. Compared to the popular Thomas & Thomas Contact II 1003, the Elevare has a slower recovery speed, which is reasonable given its more accessible price point. With a swing weight of 74.4 gm², the Elevare falls in the mid-range among 10' 3wt euro rods, sitting above lighter models like the Sage Sense (68.6 gm²) but well below heavier options like the Redington Strike (91.7 gm²). This balance makes it a versatile rod for anglers seeking performance without breaking the bank.
Warranty
Value
Price: $499.95
The TFO Elevare offers solid value at its $499 price point, positioning it as an attractive option for intermediate anglers looking for a versatile nymphing rod without the premium price tag. While it doesn’t compete with higher-end rods like the Thomas & Thomas Contact II or the Hardy Ultralight LL in terms of sensitivity or recovery speed, the Elevare delivers a well-rounded balance of performance, lightweight design, and quality componentry. Its mid-range swing weight and versatility make it a strong contender for those who are expanding their technical nymphing repertoire. For anglers upgrading from entry-level rods or fans of TFO's design ethos, the Elevare provides a capable and reliable step forward in tactical nymphing.
Conclusion
The TFO Elevare is a solid addition to the euro nymphing rod market, offering a thoughtful balance of performance, versatility, and value. While it doesn’t deliver the ultra-refined sensitivity or rapid recovery of higher-end rods, it’s well-suited for intermediate anglers exploring a variety of tactical nymphing techniques. With its lightweight construction, practical componentry, and approachable price, the Elevare will find a home in the hands of anglers who prioritize versatility and ease of use. Whether you’re upgrading your gear or adding a dependable euro rod to your quiver, the Elevare offers an enjoyable and accessible way to elevate your nymphing game.
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