Introduction

If you ask any angler what he/she prioritizes when buying a fly rod, a common answer likely utilizes the words capability, affordability, and durability (or some combination of words with similar sentiment). G. Loomis wraps these three phrases into a “purpose-built rod series” in the new IMX Pro. Stiff mid and tip sections give power to the IMX Pro, the USA crafted blank and rod provides durability, and as the G. Loomis mid-priced model, the IMX Pro is the pride and joy of Loomis affordability. The all-new IMX Pro is priority achieved. Read on to find out why.


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Outfit

• • G. Loomis IMX Pro 9’ 5wt Fly Rod
  • Lamson Litespeed Fly Reel
  • Scientific Anglers Mastery MPX Fly Line

Fit and Finish

A functional double uplocking reel seat and wood spacer combine with a full-wells cork grip for a quality bottom end to the IMX Pro. As a top-finger guy, I prefer the classic cigar-style grip on a 5 weight rod, but to each his/her own. Moving up the rod, the IMX Pro adds a stylish, made in the USA quality, olive color blank. Because the IMX Pro is a mid-priced rod, top-of-the-line componentry isn’t necessarily present in the chrome stripping guide and chrome single-foot guides. Think functionality and purpose, not fine art.

Weight

The swing weight is slightly noticeable when casting the IMX Pro at 45 feet and beyond. The IMX Pro isn’t the lightest rod out there but its swing weight, 73.31 gm2, is comparable to other mid-priced rods. The full rod weighs in at 3.4 oz.

Distance

The IMX Pro provides plenty of power at 60 feet but leaves a bit to be desired in the accuracy category at long distances. The rod’s stiff mid and tip sections mean that distance is attainable through power, however, a little extra work is required to put the fly where you want it.

Accuracy

The IMX Pro is a little too fast with slightly too little feedback at 30 feet. At 45 feet, a key trout fishing distance, the IMX Pro does a nice job. The IMX Pro is more of a bread-and-butter rod so it’s not going to be the BEST rod out there at typical trout distances. That being said, it oozes solid, quality, performance and accuracy from close distances up to 60 feet. The IMX Pro gets the job done at 60 feet but is not as accurate as it COULD be.

Flex and Feel

The flex and feel of the rod are shaped by the aforementioned stiff mid and tip sections. Power and capability are evident when casting the IMX Pro and the two combine for a solid, durable feel.

Line Choice

We like the Scientific Anglers Mastery MPX Fly Line on the IMX Pro and most other trout rods.

Warranty

Limited lifetime warranty.

Price

$495

Conclusion

As you can see, there's a lot to like about the Loomis IMX Pro. In its price range, the IMX Pro is hard to beat. The rod is a bit on the heavy side but produces quality casts at important 5wt distances. Loomis has produced yet another capable rod and the IMX Pro is an asset to the Loomis collection and any angler's collection alike.

Pros

• • Affordability
  • Power and purpose

Cons

• • Minimal feedback at short distances
  • Quality componentry, although not top-end