The Thomas & Thomas Exocett 88 fly rod has made waves in the fly fishing community since its introduction, specifically tailored for those targeting large flies and robust species.
Designed for anglers looking to catch everything from bonefish to larger saltwater varieties, the Exocett 88 is available in line weights ranging from 6 to 11. With a consistent length of 8 feet, 8 inches—a feature represented in its name—this rod stands out for its quick taper, said to facilitate ultra-fast recovery for enhanced long-distance casting.
"Strength when it counts, versatility where it matters," is how the team at Thomas & Thomas describes the rod. Crafted from proprietary multi-modulus carbon and S-Glass layups, the Exocett offers notably increased strength, superior tracking, and reduced weight compared to older materials, enhancing both precision and accuracy during casting.
"Strength when it counts, versatility where it matters,"
During a recent expedition to chase bonefish in Ascension Bay, Mexico, the author specifically selected the 8-weight model paired with a 210-grain line, despite the absence of a 250-grain option at his local fly shop.
"I planned to use the rod for bonefish in skinny water, where stealth was key," said the author. "I prioritized presentation with smaller shrimp patterns over combating wind with larger baitfish imitations."
"I planned to use the rod for bonefish in skinny water, where stealth was key,"
However, as the author boarded the panga and faced heavy winds, a moment of doubt crept in. "Damn, it's always windy on the flats," he reflected, recalling his reservations about not opting for the heavier line. Yet, to his surprise, the pairing of the 8-weight Exocett with the 210-grain line proved effective in navigating the conditions, illustrating the rod’s capabilities.
"Damn, it's always windy on the flats,"
The author noted two common issues when fishing with floating lines and rods in saltwater environments: excessive false casts required to engage the rod and line, or overly aggressive presentations that might spook fish. Fortunately, the Exocett 88 did not fall prey to either of these pitfalls, allowing for quick loading and subtle presentations.
Presenting the fly delicately and effectively in adverse conditions showcased the rod's performance. "The 210-grain line was enough to load the Exocett 88 quickly in a stiff breeze, and my presentations were subtle and effective," he remarked.
"The 210-grain line was enough to load the Exocett 88 quickly in a stiff breeze, and my presentations were subtle and effective,"
Initial impressions of the Exocett inclined the author to consider how the rod's speed would hold up during intimate encounters typical in the shallow waters of Ascension Bay. "I wondered if it would be too fast compared to the 9-foot rod I was accustomed to," he stated. However, he found no adverse effects from the rod's length. On the contrary, it allowed for powerful, pinpoint casts during gusty conditions.
"I wondered if it would be too fast compared to the 9-foot rod I was accustomed to,"
“The shorter rod made my casts feel more 'cannon-like' under stiff wind gusts,” the author observed. The rod's ability to quickly gather line after a misplaced cast and effectively relocate the fly illustrated its high performance, enhancing the overall fishing experience.
As the author experienced successful catches with the Exocett, he reflected on the joys of the sport. "I see the fish… blow the cast… regroup… make another single cast… Boom! Eat! Let’s go!!!" expressed the excitement typical of a productive fishing session.
His success continued throughout the trip, with numerous bonefish coming to hand, validating the initial expectations set by the rod's design.
In summary, the Thomas & Thomas Exocett 88 fly rod, with its combination of speed, strength, and adaptability, proves to be a valuable tool for anglers targeting larger species in challenging conditions. Its performance supports the manufacturer's claims, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned and novice fly fishermen venturing into various waters. The Exocett 88 is a must-have addition for those looking to enhance their fishing experiences in both calm and windy scenarios, promising consistent success in the field.