While fishing with the Rocky Mountain Frenzy Group headed by The River Damsel Saturday, I got a chance to try out a new rod exclusively from Flyfishing Crazy. Larry Snyder has worked with T.L Johnson Rod Company to custom design these rods for each branch of the military. 20% of the proceeds, but $20 from the builder goes directly to Project Healing Waters. From a 486-4 to an 890-4, these rods come in custom wrapped colors at $335 – $345 (with other options available).

I got to take the 8’6 4# out for a spin Saturday on Boulder Creek and was very impressed with the Army colors and overall design of the rod. While fishing it, it did seem a little heavy for that small of a creek, as it had a pretty firm mid-body with a great flex-tip. I landed half a dozen with its precise accuracy, though I really wanted to launch a cast as far as I could. But those of you who know Boulder Creek, those shots really aren’t an opportunity most of the time. However, I did find a spot as we were just about fishing and decided to pull about 75 feet out and see how far it would go. No problem for this rod – I’d really like to fish it on some larger river here in Colorado.

Overall, definitely a quality custom build that goes to a great cause. I talk over and over again that you really can get a great rod and don’t have to pay a $700 price tag. Well, this is one of them, and the custom scribe on the rod adds to the appeal. Thanks Larry for working on such a great project.

Check out these rods by vising Flyfishing Crazy.