A new rod - the Classic G.Loomis IMX

Anyone remember the G. Loomis IMX rod series?

G. Loomis (pre-Shimano era) launched rods using the(ir) new IMX graphite in 1987. The IMX graphite, together with Sage's Graphite III (released in 1989) used for the RPL rod series, was the start of a whole new generation of fly rods. These rods made of high modulus graphites were more resistant to stress which resulted in much lighter and faster actioned rods than before. These days we'd call these medium-fast rods. Perfect rods for fishing, not parking lot rods. My trusty 8ft #4 IMX travelled with me on my first trip to Montana in 1992.

Recently someone showed up with a G. Loomis IMX (9ft #4, 4 piece) blank. This blank was kept in the closet for at least 20 years! I just couldn't resist it and bought the blank. The IMX blank needed to get the best treatment it could possibly get, so I asked the Romanian rod builder George Minculete to finish the blank. Check out the two postings on the progress of this rod on his website here and here.

George understands the beauty of proportions. So many builders and rod manufacturers completely lost their touch because they don't understand the essence of proportions. Take a look of the grip size (and shape!) George made for several different rods. Simply perfect.

I've been admiring George's work for some time now and every rod he built looks better and better. The workmanship of George is out of this planet. I asked him to make the grip similar to my Sage 490 LL. Just take a look at the cork grip he sculptured for this rod. George advised me to use the Pacbay light wire low profile guides. The Joel Lemke nickel plated aluminum reel seat is combined with a California Redwood spacer. The wraps are rusty red silk.

George mailed me today that my rod is finished. He sent me some marvelous pictures from sunny Transylvania. He also did some test casting and his words are: "... today I fell in love with the smooth med-fast IMX rod". Well, that just confirms what I was hoping for!

I can't wait until I can check out the fine work George did on the rod. And yes, I'll give the rod a wiggle and give it a cast in my back yard. I'll take the rod on my next fishing trip to give it a christening it deserves.


Update summer 2018:
I sent the rod back for a check up and asked George to make the grip slightly smaller.

Yes, this rod is still my favourite 9ft #4!


Update May 22, 2013:
The rod arrived today. The workmanship is superb. The cosmetics are so understated yet without compromise. So much more classy than most factory built rods. The reel seat is stunning. Almost jewelry without being too much.

I did a quick cast at my back yard. The rod is so smooth! The medium-fast action already comes to life with just 2-3 meters of fly line. I can cast smooth tight loops all the way without any effort. Can't believe why rod manufacturers are making such stiff rods these days?...