Winston Pure 2 Fly Rod Review

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The Winston Rod Company is well-known for their smooth-casting dry fly rods, and the new Pure 2 embodies this spirit perfectly. Replacing the original Pure, the Pure 2 features an updated taper that enhances versatility and reserve power without compromising the iconic Winston feel. If you’re passionate about dry fly fishing and need a purpose-built rod to deliver dries accurately and softly on long leaders, the Winston Pure 2 is one of the finest options available. In today’s review, we’ll take a deep dive into the new Pure 2 so you can choose the perfect dry fly rod for your collection. Keep reading to learn more about the Pure 2, including its flex & feel, recommended line pairings, and build quality.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Silky smooth feel makes casting an absolute pleasure
• Lightweight
• More refined progressive taper than the original Pure

Cons

• Expensive
• Not an ideal choice for nymphing or streamers - this is a dedicated dry fly rod

Who It’s For

The idea of dry fly purism emerged on British chalk streams in the late 19th century, and it’s still flourishing today thanks in part to specialized fly rod manufacturers like R.L. Winston. As its name suggests, the Pure 2 is a dry fly rod, so it's ideal for dedicated dry fly enthusiasts who prioritize feel and delicacy over raw power. In the 9’ 5wt configuration, the Pure 2 is especially well-suited for long-leader technical dry fly situations, such as western spring creeks and pressured tailwaters.

Outfit

Winston Pure 2 Fly Rod

Bauer RVR Fly Reel

Rio Creek Premier Fly Line

Fit & Finish

Every Winston fly rod is handcrafted in Twin Bridges, Montana, and their build quality is second to none. The Pure 2 features a nickel silver uplocking reel seat, a gorgeous burled wood insert, and a comfortable half wells grip made from premium Flor-grade cork. Nano light stripping guides are lightweight and slick, and chrome snake guides complete the rod to the tip top. This is a stunning build that aligns with Winston’s rich history of making downright beautiful fly rods.

Distance & Accuracy

We were excited to see how the Pure 2 compared to the original Pure at various distances, and it didn’t disappoint. Winston has refined its taper to make a tool that is just as fun and capable at close range as it is beyond 40 feet.

At 30 feet the Pure 2 performs exactly how you would expect - buttery smooth and accurate with a WF line like Rio Creek or Rio Gold. If you prefer a slightly quicker casting tempo, a Wulff Triangle Taper is a great pairing at close range.

At 45 feet, the Pure 2 showcases its improved taper compared to the original Pure. It's still very accurate and offers plenty of feel, but it doesn’t fold with a creek taper or even an SA MPX. Rio Gold is probably the best pairing at these key trout distances, but again, a Triangle Taper is a solid choice for those with a quicker stroke.

60 feet is really pushing the limits of a dry fly rod, but the Pure 2 holds its own at this longer distance. With a slower, more deliberate casting stroke, the rod loads deeply to make fairly accurate shots. This would not be my go-to rod for throwing long casts all day, especially in the wind, as it just doesn’t have the power to muscle through gusts. But compared to the original Pure, which had a tendency to ‘fold’ at long range, the new Pure 2 surprised us at 60 feet. Pair with a Rio Gold or a true-to-weight taper if you’ll be doing more long-range work.

Flex & Feel

The Pure 2 features a progressive taper that allows for a silky smooth transfer of energy from the tip to the midsection without folding. It's a moderate-action rod that enhances sensitivity and feel, making it ideal for technical dry fly presentations and light tippets. Generally speaking, the Pure 2 favors a slower, methodical casting stroke, but it can be paired with a presentation line like a Wulff Triangle Taper to speed things up a bit.

Warranty

Winston Fly Rod Warranty

Value

Price: $995.00

At $995, the Winston Pure 2 is undeniably a premium investment, but it’s important to consider the value it offers for dedicated dry fly anglers. Think of it like a specialized tool—a finely tuned chisel in a master carpenter’s kit or a high-performance suspension system in a rally car. Tools designed for a specific purpose, especially those crafted with care and precision, often command a higher price. Handcrafted in the USA with Winston’s legendary attention to detail, the Pure 2 isn’t just a fly rod; it’s a purpose-driven instrument for those who value feel, delicacy, and the art of dry fly fishing. For anglers who pursue trout on technical waters, it’s a worthwhile indulgence that will elevate every cast.

Conclusion

The Winston Pure 2 stands out as a thoughtfully designed tool for dedicated dry fly anglers, blending tradition and performance seamlessly. With its refined progressive taper, silky smooth action, and meticulous craftsmanship, it exemplifies what a purpose-built dry fly rod should be. While its premium price tag may give some anglers pause, the value lies in its unparalleled performance for those who prioritize feel, accuracy, and the delicate presentations required on technical trout streams. Whether you’re targeting selective trout on spring creeks, tailwaters, or your backyard stream, the Pure 2 offers an experience that’s hard to match. For anglers passionate about dry fly purism, this rod is truly in a class of its own.

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Questions?

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