/ 
I really liked taking out my little 7.6p #3 rod. It's thin, short, easy to handle, light and therefore very playful. It was perfect for small streams and gave me a lot of pleasure on modest-sized fish. But I was limited by its power on windy days or when attacking larger fish. So I was looking to complement it with a model of similar size but higher power and faster action.
My research was difficult, as I quickly realized that the choice was quite limited for these small rods in the 4 or 5 line power range. After some hesitation, I settled on the Elevation 7.6p #3/4/5 from Scandinavian brand Guideline.
Presentation
This model was originally designed for the TLT technique. This is a casting method created by an Italian that requires the use of a line much lighter than the rod's actual power, hence the #3/4/5 marking. The rod is in 3 sections and has a real power of 5, just what I was looking for.
The rod is packaged in a compartmentalized fabric cover that slips into a rigid sheath for total protection.
Note that despite the rod's small size, the fact that it's a 3-section gives it a footprint of 87 cm, which is larger than a "classic" 9p 4-section rod.
It's claimed to weigh 61 g, and it's impressive how light it is to hold!
It has single-leg rings and discreet alignment points in the guides. However, it has no fly hook. This detail is not an obstacle for me, as I chose this model with full knowledge of the facts, but I must admit that I would have preferred to have one.
Tests at the water's edge
When I unpacked the rod, I was seduced by its finesse, lightness and responsiveness. I couldn't wait to take it to the water's edge and match it with a line.
I spent a season with it, and although it was originally intended for very specific locations, it proved so addictive that its range of uses has expanded considerably.
It's just as at ease with a 3 as with a 5 line, and has a really "fast" action which allows very tight loops and high line speed. It's a real treat to get under branches, to fight the wind, to get out of the line quickly or to spread a long leader.
It's a common misconception that fast action means a stiff rod. Action should not be confused with power. This rod has a rather supple (but very responsive) tip and a stiff butt which, despite its finesse, has a lot of power in reserve.
It's perfect for those who like to dictate the tempo. Especially when combined with a #3 or 4, which in my opinion is the best compromise. My favorite line to use with this rod is the Triangle Taper 4, which offers small/large versatility.
The relatively supple tip allows you to take pleasure from modest fish.
The power reserve and fast action allow you to fight beautiful fish with authority.
She's capable of a lot and her only limit is her length. I had thought of her for specific types of fishing and in the end she spent much more time with me this season than I had anticipated. Small streams or wide, small fish or big, delicate dries or sight nymphs, nothing stops her.
Getting my classic 9p #5 back in my hands after this foil felt funny! It's like having a big, heavy, clumsy thing in your hands. So, of course, it's less effective on large rivers. Its smaller size means you have more silk on the water, and the mendings are also less effective... But you gain so much pleasure that it's well worth the experience.
As you can see, I've literally fallen under the spell of this little bombshell. It's certainly not for the faint-hearted, but for all lovers of silky speed, tight curls and nervous foils, go for it - you won't be disappointed.
Guideline Elevation 7.6 feet
- Brand : Guideline
- Length: 7.6 feet / 228 cm
- Number of strands: 3
- Weight: 62g
- Suggested retail price: ?289
