The Evolution of the Skagit System... Let’s start with the Renegade Series

In my mind, the Skagit system continues to evolve. This evolution of an idea to make casting and fishing performance as efficient and productive as possible, while covering a wide variety of fishing situations and techniques. To maximize effectiveness and efficiency in all casting and fishing situations, I prefer a shorter rod and proper weight reel. The rod should be balanced and light in the hand.

The casting system, head + tip combined length should be around 2 to 2 1/2 times the length of the rod. This is the ideal working length, meaning the rod can easily move the entire system with little effort.

The cast set up is simple and predictable, mending and swing control are easy, and no big body movements are necessary to move or cast the entire system.

This compact system allows the angler to access more difficult fishing situations so one can cast and fish them more effectively with less effort across the board.

The action of the rod is a huge factor in casting and fishing consistently. The faster the rod, the more grains required to load the rod and the harder the caster must work to load and cast the rod. A rod with a medium fast progressive action will assist the caster with loading the rod and minimize caster fatigue.

Fish fighting and landing ratios are assisted when the system’s dynamic range and the progressive action are maximized. Landing a fish by yourself on rods under 12 feet is vastly easier than longer rods, furthermore everything is easier with a rod and line systems that naturally fit your human proportion.

The proper rod length, action and basic fit are no different than a perfectly fitted golf club. Performance is in the fit and action.

I personally think the 11'6" 8wt Renegade is the ideal length and weight for most my steelhead and salmon fishing, I use the 12' 9wt for the bigger critters and rivers. I have never felt like I was under gunned in any situation and I can always fish the inside really well and fish through the most complex fishing and casting situations. I designed all the Renegade series to be ultra light, with the ideal handle lengths and diameter to fit the basic human proportion, making these rod's a joy to cast and fish for days on end for beginners to advanced anglers alike.