Skip the TFO models you mentioned, they are way too slow to come close to the Winston in feel. The BVK line at TFO is an incredible rod for the money. I have more than several and like the 10' 4wt better than about any rod I own. I have a couple Winstons, the BIIx and the BIIIx you were using in 7 and 5 wts... I have a bunch of other upper end rods and feel the BVK comes closer for the money and for the feel you are looking for.

I am not impressed by any Reddington rod I have cast or felt (a bunch).

Another very good choice for minimum dollars is ECHO... but they are MUCH faster rods and with the right lines are amazing. but again, they are very fast and not as pleasant to cast as the BVKs.


Mark Begich, Joaquin Jackson, and Heller resistance... Three huge reasons to worry about the NRA.