Echo Edge Rod Review

I’ve broken two salmon rods this spring season, both of which are still being repaired, so I was relieved last week when Daughters allowed me to test out the new Echo Edge 10-weight. Tim Rajeff, the rod designer at Echo, is one of the most progressive in the biz. I was excited to try out his latest design, and hopefully christen the new rod on a bright chinook.

A few days later I was casting with a couple of friends, and we realized we ALL had new Edge rods that required breaking in. It seemed a tall order, but just 24 hours later, all of us would land hefty chinooks with our new rods–a breaking-in of epic proportions!

First it was Koertge. He set the hook on a great grab, and the fish headed for the next pool. I pulled anchors and went for the beach. “I think I’d like to net this one–doesn’t feel like a solid hookup,” he stressed.

“Aw, come on, man! You got him!” I assured.

A minute later we’re on the bank, the big nook yanking on the hook with every head shake, close enough to grab, but way too hot.

“Dude, he’s gonna get off…”

I grab the net and make the move, but the hook comes free at the wrong moment. The salmon slowly swims back into the depths. Jason’s blood is boiling. I’m momentarily confused. Then my drastic error sinks in. The next hour is spent agonizing and apologizing.

Then I hook up. It’s a big one. Long story, but it hits the net against all odds, all thanks to Jason. The guilt thickens.

Jason hooks another one and this time I get things right. He’s stoked, of course, and the slate is wiped clean. Life is good, but there’s still one rod that needs proving.

Finally, Mojo hooks up. I follow him in for the assist. The sun is shining, the wind is picking up, and the morning session is coming to a close. Miguel slides the beast up on the sand and pounces. I snap a couple of shots and we all head for breakfast.

Three new Echo Edge 10-weights tested and proven in one morning on ocean-bright kings! The rods performed well, but the final analysis wasn’t perfect. While the rods were a joy to cast, all of us noted one minor problem: the ferrules worked loose after 20-30 minutes of casting, so it was important to consistently check and tighten the connections. But no broken rods, no lost tips, and about 60 pounds of spring chinook on the beach.

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced 10-weight, the Echo Edge is a winner. I’d buy two. Just be sure to check those ferrules religiously, or tape them for good measure. And while you’re doing so, remind yourself how much money you saved.

-RR