Hi bit of advise please when I first started fly fishing I purchased a rod Thompson rod. 9` 6 7# it was ok but I saw a Greys Platiinum 9` 6" 7# at notts fly fishing show. it took some getting used to and still catches me out sometimes. after 3 years line is showing its age snowbee w/f 7#
After reading some of the posts on here I am wondering if I might be better of up lining to a w/f 8#.
Ive been reading some posts on the platinum xd and it seams they are not very forgiving of a poor cast. that al be me then. lol.
What do they mean not very forgiving?) what goes wrong?
how would you discribe the action of this rod and how would you rate it .
Had a few casts with a G tec I was surprised how different it was to cast .
we have an instructor in the club so ive had quite a bit of help from him.

any advise and thoughts welcome.
brgds.d duck

I have 3 of these and use 8# lines on them all. I dont think you should have any issues using #7s though, I just find the 8 loads a little better. I'm not sure that moving up to a #8 would improve your casting much.

i have an XD-great rod.Only you can decide which line suits you best but you will not get the full potential of the XD overlining it

"Ive been reading some posts on the platinum xd and it seems they are not very forgiving of a poor cast.
What do they mean not very forgiving? what goes wrong? "

It's easier to describe the effects and result of a 'poor cast' than what has caused it. Personally, I know when it's gone wrong because the line and fly don't finish up where I've intended. Almost always due to user error - ther'e no one else controlling the rod. Ultimate destinations include on the water in a heap in front; snagged up a tree behind (or on vegetation on the bank); the middle of my back with a loud 'thwack' - early season, leaded lures!! Or the line announcing its arrival around my left ear (hence a wide brimmed hat)

I usually find it happens when I'm not concentrating. With some rods, poor casts can be corrected before the line is released by 'hitting it later'. With others this just makes matters worse. I bought a Daiwa Amorphous years ago on this strength, and it still works when I find I'm having an 'off day'. It just helps you relax more.

The best analogy I can think of is cars and driving. Some cars will have a wider range of 'useability' and slog around town all day in traffic without causing the driver any problems. Others will have a narrower 'power band' which means that gears have to be changed more often, stalling when stopped etc.

By increasing the line weight, it may mean that you 'feel' the cast a bit better, so it could help. Would it be possible to borrow an #8 for a few casts??

hi every one thanks for the replys.
am I right in thinking if I up line i wont need so much line outside the top ring to load the rod.
If so then it will help me avoid putting more flys in the trees behind me as its a bit tight on some pegs.
would it still be ok to double haul if I use an #8 w/f on a #7 rod.
ENB.
Yes I can borrow an #8 w/f but its a (mill end) so dont know who`s brand it is.
brgds.d duck.