OPST Pure Skagit Fly Rod Review
OPST Fly Rods Quick Picks
Best for Trout Spey: OPST Micro Skagit Trout Spey Rod - A specialized tool designed by Ed Ward for swinging soft hackles and streamers on smaller water. Its unique handle design and deep-loading action make single-hand Skagit casting effortless.
Best for Steelhead: OPST Pure Skagit Spey Rod - Built for the dedicated two-handed angler chasing anadromous fish in tight quarters. This series offers the power to turn over heavy sink tips while maintaining the sensitivity needed for technical water.
How to Choose OPST Fly Rods
Olympic Peninsula Skagit Tactics (OPST) designs rods with a singular focus: optimizing the Skagit cast. Unlike general-purpose fly rods, these tools are engineered to work in perfect unison with short shooting heads like the Commando Head. Understanding the distinction between their two main series will help you select the right tool for your water.
Micro Skagit vs. Pure Skagit
Micro Skagit Series: These rods are true hybrids, bridging the gap between single-hand and two-handed fishing. Ranging from 3-weight to 5-weight, they feature a unique lower grip that allows for two-handed assistance when needed but are light enough for single-hand casting. They are ideal for trout, bass, and smallmouth fishing where space is limited and heavy flies are required.
Pure Skagit Series: These are dedicated two-handed tools designed for traditional steelhead and salmon applications. Available in heavier weights (6-weight through 9-weight), they feature full-sized Spey grips and powerful butt sections. Choose this series for winter steelhead, king salmon, or when you need to punch large intruders through wind on larger river systems.
Understanding Grain Windows
OPST rods are designed around specific grain windows rather than traditional line weights. Because Skagit casting relies on the mass of the line to load the rod, matching the correct Commando Head weight is critical. For example, a Micro Skagit 3-weight is optimized for a 150-175 grain head, while a Pure Skagit 7-weight performs best with heads in the 325-375 grain range. Always check the manufacturer's grain chart to ensure your rod loads deeply and unrolls efficiently.
Action and Feel
Action: OPST rods generally feature a medium-fast action with a deep flex profile. This "regressive" taper allows the rod to load all the way into the handle, which is essential for sustained anchor casts (like the Snap-T or Perry Poke). This deep loading sensation gives the caster more feedback and requires less physical effort to launch heavy sink tips.
Why Trident Carries OPST
We carry OPST because they are innovators who fundamentally changed how anglers approach two-handed fishing. By shrinking Skagit tactics down to trout sizes, they opened up new water for anglers everywhere. Their rods are purpose-built tools that solve specific problems, namely, how to cast big flies in tight quarters with minimal backcast room.
Care & Maintenance
Ferrule Wax: Apply ferrule wax to the male connections periodically to prevent sections from seizing or twisting during long casting sessions.
Guide Cleaning: Skagit heads can pick up grit; clean your rod guides with a soft cloth and warm water to protect your fly line's coating.
Storage: Always dry your rod completely before storing it in its tube to prevent cork rot and finish damage.
Complete Your Setup
Related Gear
OPST Fly Lines - The Commando Head is the engine that makes these rods perform; pair it with Lazar Line for maximum distance.
Skagit Shooting Heads - Explore other short shooting head options compatible with short Spey rods.
OPST Fly Rods FAQs
Q: Can I use a standard WF trout line on an OPST Micro Skagit rod?
A: While possible, these rods are optimized for shooting heads. A standard line may feel too light to load the rod deeply unless you significantly overline it (by 2-3 line weights).
Q: What is the difference between the Micro Skagit and a Switch rod?
A: Micro Skagit rods are typically shorter (around 10 feet) and feature a specialized grip designed for single-hand casting with occasional two-hand assistance. Traditional switch rods are often longer and designed primarily for two-handed casting.
Q: Do I need a specific reel for these rods?
A: You need a reel that balances the rod and holds the necessary running line and shooting head. For Micro Skagit rods, a standard 4/5 or 5/6 weight reel is usually sufficient.
Q: Are these rods good for beginners?
A: Yes, the deep-loading action and short length make them excellent for learning Skagit casting. The system is forgiving and allows beginners to feel the rod load easily.
OPST Warranty & Resources
OPST stands behind their rods with a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Registration is required within 30 days of purchase to activate your coverage.
Learn More from OPST
Micro Skagit Technology - Learn about the design philosophy behind the Micro series.
