Top 10 Switch Rods Reviewed for Anglers

As fishing spots become increasingly crowded and the demand for precise casting grows, a hybrid solution between single-handed and double-handed rods is gaining popularity among anglers. The switch rod, a versatile tool that combines the maneuverability of shorter rods with the casting distance of longer ones, is proving particularly effective for summer sea trout and grilse fishing. Based on rigorous testing of ten of the latest switch rods, this guide provides an in-depth analysis of their performance characteristics to help anglers make informed purchasing decisions.

At its core, a switch rod is essentially a shorter version of a double-handed rod. While theoretically operable with one hand, prolonged single-handed use can be fatiguing. The ideal switch rod should embody several key characteristics:

• Lightweight Sensitivity: A delicate balance of lightness and responsiveness that allows for extended use without fatigue.
• Optimal Length: Designed to maximize casting distance while maintaining compactness for confined fishing environments.
• Precision Casting: Exceptional accuracy for short to medium-range presentations.
• Versatility: Capable of handling both small rapids and low-water conditions in larger rivers.
• Subtle Presentation: The ability to deliver flies with finesse to avoid spooking wary fish.

Compared to traditional double-handed rods, switch rods offer superior portability and more refined presentations. They're particularly well-suited for younger anglers or those with less physical strength. Their compact size also makes them ideal for minimalist fishing setups - just a small box of flies, a line spool, and a landing net are all you need for a satisfying day on the water.

Our evaluation was conducted by experienced angler Calum Manson and myself under consistent conditions on the River Tweed - low water levels, clear weather, and against prevailing winds. To ensure comprehensive assessment, we tested each rod with three different lines:

• Rio Short VersiTip 425gr/27.5gm, 7wt: Featuring a 33-foot head with a 10-foot intermediate tip.
• Cortland Switch full line: 45-foot head at 425gr with a 10-foot tapered leader.
• Rio Scandi Outbound 485gr/31gm, 8wt: 33-foot head with a 10-foot tapered leader.

It's crucial to note that casting styles and preferences vary significantly among anglers. We strongly recommend testing different switch rod models with various lines at your local dealer to find your perfect match.

Below is our comprehensive analysis of ten switch rods, including pricing, specifications, performance characteristics, and ideal use cases.

Price: £249.99 | 11-foot, 7wt

This lightweight rod offers a smooth action with excellent accuracy at short to medium distances. It performs best with shorter-headed lines, particularly the Outbound. While the 8wt line felt slightly heavy, this confirms the rod's honest weight rating. Maintaining line stability requires longer, slower casting strokes. The Cortland line delivers delicate presentations at short range but struggles with distance, making this rod ideal for small rivers and low-water conditions where finesse matters most.

Best for: Precise short to medium-range casting in smaller rivers.

Price: £339 | 11-foot 1-inch, 7wt-8wt

The Kite features a fast action that requires shorter casting strokes for optimal performance. It pairs exceptionally well with the VersiTip line and can handle more overhang than most rods. Capable of delivering long casts with excellent presentation, its slender handle provides comfort though its shorter length limits hand positioning. The rod offers good feedback and maintains accuracy across all distances. While it can manage the heavier Outbound line, performance improves with slower strokes, suggesting it's better suited as a 7wt than 8wt.

Best for: Anglers who need long casts with excellent presentation.

Price: £549.99 | 11-foot 7-inch, 7wt-8wt

One of the longest rods in our test, this model verges on being a short double-handed rod. Its length provides exceptional distance capabilities and handles the Cortland line's longer head better than most. While lightweight with good loading characteristics, it lacks the delicate touch of shorter switch rods, feeling more like a scaled-down double-hander. The 8wt line truly showcases its progressive action, delivering effortless distance while maintaining accuracy and turnover. An excellent choice for larger rivers or anglers targeting salmon.

Best for: Big water situations where distance matters.

Price: £639.99 | 11-foot, 7wt-8wt

With its slower, more progressive action, the Aydon provides excellent feedback throughout the blank. Its forgiving nature allows ample time to complete forward casts, making it remarkably easy to use all day. While it can handle 8wt lines, the 7wt is perfectly sufficient as forcing the rod doesn't yield additional distance. Longer, slower strokes produce perfectly acceptable distance and presentation, though this rod is slightly more affected by headwinds than some competitors.

Best for: Comfortable, all-day fishing sessions.

Price: £849 | 11-foot 2-inch, 7wt-8wt

Slightly longer than standard switch rods, the FX2 delivers casting distance that exceeds typical expectations. Its moderately fast yet progressive action handles all test lines well, particularly thriving with the additional weight of the 8wt Outbound which loads the rod deeper and showcases its power reserve. Accuracy is very good though not class-leading, requiring more precision in casting technique. In skilled hands, this rod can handle virtually any situation.

Best for: Experienced casters needing exceptional distance.

Price: £839 | 11-foot, 7wt

The Mission's softer mid-section action provides noticeable loading right through to the butt section while retaining enough power for all three test lines - including the technically overloaded 8wt. It prefers the 7wt VersiTip with slower, more deliberate strokes to avoid over-powering. While distance and accuracy are good, the rod lacks the crisp responsiveness of some competitors. The bottom grip may feel bulky to some anglers, though this is largely subjective.

Best for: Those who prefer a more moderate action.

Price: £1,195 | 11-foot 9-inch, 7wt

At 11'9", the Igniter straddles the line between switch rod and short double-hander. Its action is softer than expected but features a quick tip recovery that enables accurate casts with pleasing loops. It delivers the pure distance of our test but lacks the precision and finesse of shorter, lighter rods. The Cortland line felt slightly light, while the 8wt loaded deeper and performed best, suggesting this rod leans toward an 8wt rating. A high-performance tool best suited for experienced casters on larger rivers.

Best for: Skilled anglers fishing big water.

Price: £147 | 11-foot 3-inch, 7wt

Featuring one of the most traditional actions in our test, the Ajax nonetheless delivers all lines with ease, achieving respectable distance without effort. While not as crisp or accurate as top-tier rods, it's remarkably easy to cast and great fun to fish. Its softer action favors traditional Spey casting strokes with slower, more progressive timing. While not built for extreme conditions or large flies, it shines on medium rivers with smaller patterns. An excellent choice for novice or developing casters.

Best for: Beginners or those seeking value.

Price: £640 | 11-foot, 8wt

This rod was a standout in our testing. Exceptionally lightweight and responsive with a medium-fast to fast action, its tip performs flawlessly for precise placement without noticeable bounce or deviation. As our only dedicated 8wt, it handled all test lines beautifully, requiring just slightly more overhang with the 7wt to load properly. Paired with the 8wt Outbound, it's an absolute joy - delivering ample distance and, more importantly, perfect turnover every time. Its forgiving, intuitive nature suits a wide range of casting styles, earning it our top pick. The five-piece configuration enhances portability.

Best for: Anglers seeking flawless performance across all situations.

Price: £439.99 | 11-foot 2-inch, 7wt

One of the faster-action rods in our test, the Hero features an accurate, stable tip with ample power in the butt section. It maintains the true switch rod feel - light and delicate - while still delivering good distance and presentations. It performed well with all lines, favoring the VersiTip. While it handled the 8wt competently, some control was lost, confirming its true 7wt rating. The longer grip accommodates larger hands well. A superb all-around rod that comes highly recommended.

Best for: Those wanting classic switch rod feel with modern performance.

Our comprehensive evaluation reveals several key insights:

• Price doesn't always equal performance: More expensive rods don't necessarily outperform budget-friendly options in all aspects. The Sharpe's of Aberdeen Ajax, for instance, delivers remarkable value.
• Line pairing is crucial: Different rods respond uniquely to various lines. Always test your prospective rod with lines you plan to use regularly.
• Personal preference is paramount: The "best" rod ultimately depends on your casting style and fishing needs. Hands-on testing is invaluable.

Switch rods offer a compelling combination of portability and casting capability that makes them ideal for specific fishing scenarios. Through our rigorous testing and analysis, we hope to have provided anglers with the information needed to select their perfect switch rod. Remember that beyond specifications and price points, the right rod for you is the one that feels best in your hands and meets your unique fishing requirements.

All prices correct as of September 2023. Rod photography: Peter Gathercole