Trout Spey Rigs: Braden

Trout Spey Rigs: Braden

Today on the Headhunters Fly Shop Blog we have Braden’s Trout Spey Rig. We thought it would be helpful if we outlined what we use here on the Missouri River during the Swing Season. Braden, and the majority of the HH Gang, swings a fly all winter long. Starting in the fall and fishing it well into the spring. Until the dry fly becomes an option. So here is Braden Lewis’ Trout Spey Rig.

Rod: I’m transitioning from an Echo SR 10’6″ 4 wt. to the Sage One 11′ 3″ wt. I bought the SR before the Echo TR2 was available in Trout Spey sizes. The SR, for my purposes, has probably been made obsolete by the introduction of the TR2 in the 3 and 4 weight sizes.

Reel: I use a Pflueger Medalist reel or an Echo Ion which are both cheap and tough.

Line: For the SR, I primarily fished the Rio Trout Max in 275 gr. I intend on using the same line on the Sage ONE.

Tips: I usually use the light iMow Tips in 7.5′ x 2.5′ or 5′ x 5′.

Running Line: I used coated running line for a long time, but I’ve made the switch to OPST Lazar Line for the added distance.

Rigging: To connect my Skagit Head to the Lazar Line, I use loop-to-loop connections to a swivel that I made by clinch knotting mono running line to either side of an inexpensive small swivel and then tying surgeon knots on both sides.

Flies:  As far as gear goes, I really like the Tacky Big Bug box for a single spey fly box. It’s big enough to hold the small selection of flies that I usually use.

Gloves: I’m not a big fan of wearing gloves when I’m fishing, but when I need to, I’m a fan of the Kast gloves.

Hook Sharpener: I don’t use it often, but I like to have a hook sharpener handy.

Jacket: I love my Simms Bulkley Jacket when it’s cold out. It’s warm and has sensible pockets.