The innovator of the rectangle quad rod is the retired California rod maker Michael Montagne. You can see an article on Montagne's rods in Schweibert's book, "Trout." There is an interview with Michael Montagne at www.overmywaders.com.
Michael's rods deviate from the traditional quadrate rod in that two of the strips are wider than the other two. Therefore, the rod will cast straighter than the hex or the square quad rod. Also, it has a higher percentage of the valuable outer power fibers.
Rectangle quads also have a faster recovery rate and a quicker dampening cycle than other rods.
These are my favorite rods to fish because of their very fine casting
characteristics. These rods are very centered when casting the rod. They cast very straight.
The
rectangle quads I'm making now are of my own design.
My
rods are not as wide as Mike Montagne's. I have done a lot of experimenting and
have found what I am looking for with the width-to-height ratio. I also have
been experimenting from rectangle to square throughout the taper in spots and
truly love the outcome.
I
am currently hollowing-building rectangle quads. I have two 7' 8" 5-wts. Hollow
rod without reel seat weighs 2.9 ounces. Reel seat adds .5 to .75 ounces,
depending on which reel seat.
1.
Hollow rectangle quad, 7' 8" 5-wt. Smooth, accurate, progressive action, roll
casts well. Medium to medium fast action. This is called the
LT Series.
This is my lighter version.
2.
Little bit faster rod than the rod above. Smooth, accurate progressive action.
Casts a long line when called upon. It has a kick to it at about 35 feet. Medium
fast rod.
MB Series.
Both rods track well. I like both tapers. Both are interesting rods.
Rectangle quad tapers currently available:
1. 7' 8" 5 wt. Longbelly. Model: Spring Creek R Quad. This is a medium action
rod, progressive, with a delicate tip. It can also be made with a faster butt
section, which really speeds up the rod and the line speed. It reminds me of a Payne taper. This is
my r-quad design.
2. 8' 6" 7/8 wt. off a Gillum steelhead salmon taper. This is a very powerful,
straight-casting rod.
3. 7' 6" 4/5 wt. Michael Montagne taper. This is a very fast rod, with a
delicate tip.
More rod tapers will be coming when I have time to develop more prototypes.
Note: I have had many requests for 8' 5 wt. r-quads. I will be working
on it soon.
For more information, email me! tom@springcreekrods.com
Rod shown above and below: Rectangle quad. Spots on
varnish are from light rain.
