CTS FISHING - Quartz Fiberglass Rods Get Turbo Charged

It's been a few years ago now but at the last IFTD in Denver, I spent some time talking with Stephen and Gayleen Pratt of CTS Fishing and they hinted at a new generation of Quartz fiberglass fly rods blanks that they had already dubbed as their Quartz TurboTaper.  COVID-19 and extended factory shut downs slowed this release but it's finally here and I'm excited to share about it.  

 

What's TurboTaper?  These are faster tapers with extra power in select heavy line weight and saltwater models.  To start, there are five blanks that will be offered in the Quartz TurboTaper series...

• Quartz TT 686 - 8'6" 6-Weight - 4 Pieces
  
• Quartz TT 898 - 8'9" 8-Weight - 4 Pieces
  
• Quartz TT 1089 - 8'9" 10-Weight - 3 or 4 Pieces
  
• Quartz TT 1286 - 8'6" 12-Weight - 3 or 4 Pieces
  
• Quartz TT 1480 - 8' 14-Weight - 3 Pieces
  
  

 

From the CTS Fishing presser...

"New Zealand’s rod company CTS today announced a new series of its premium Quartz fiberglass rods, designed for fly fishing aficionados who prefer their glass extra fast.

The Quartz TurboTaper™ (TT) series uses a turbo-charge design concept to create a more dynamic, faster rod with exceptional power.

Aptly named the ‘turbo’ because it delivers extra power when needed, the TurboTaper™ is a CTS innovation that speeds up a rod taper, injecting more power in the butt of the rod, while keeping the tip area nice and agile.

CTS pioneered the production of uni-directional fibreglass fly rods in the mid 2000’s, and has been at the forefront of glass innovation ever since.

TurboTaper™ innovator Stephen Pratt explains that “unlike older ‘broom stick’ actions that are typically found in fast powerful rods, the TurboTaper™ brings power in smoothly, enabling the angler to present an easier, more accurate cast yet have the control and powerful delivery that a stiff base area provides”.

He says the newest range of Quartz TTs is specifically targeted at heavier line weights and saltwater fly applications, and “provides the perfect action for anglers wanting a dynamic, powerful rod.”

My take?  I'm really excited about this series of blanks and if I was picking a couple to have built up, I'd go for the bookends of the series with the 686, as I'm a pushover for 6-weights that can handle light saltwater, and the 1480, since who doesn't need a short 14-weight for sharks, tarpon, bluewater, and jungle trips?  

Visit the CTS Fishing website for more information or to place an order.