The Winston Pure 2 fly rod series represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, offering consistent performance and enhanced sensitivity thanks to new NanoParticle Double-Bonded graphite technology. Reviewers praised its accuracy and suitability for delicate dry fly work, particularly in the 20-30 foot range. The shorter rod lengths (7'9" 4-weight, 8'3" 5-weight) provide improved torsional stability without sacrificing reach. However, the rods are primarily suited for dry fly fishing and lack versatility for nymphing or hopper-dropper techniques. As noted by Hatch Magazine's Spencer Durrant, these rods excel in small stream conditions where precision is key, making them ideal for light line aficionados but less suitable for anglers seeking multi-purpose versatility.
Full review
Action and feel refinement
Reviewers consistently praised the refined action of the Winston Pure 2 compared to its predecessor. Spencer Durrant from Hatch Magazine noted that the new series features 'a lively, yet relaxed' action perfectly suited for small dry fly work, while still handling stiff breezes effectively. The original Pure rods were described as having inconsistent feel and action, with each rod in the first run varying significantly in stiffness and speed. In contrast, the Pure 2's redesign by Hank Haen allowed for consistent performance across the lineup. Durrant reported that the 7'9" 4-weight 'cast like a dream' and felt 'exactly like the sort of dry fly-centric rod you'd expect from Winston.' The new materials, specifically the 'NanoParticle Double-Bonded' graphite technology, replaced boron entirely and provided increased feel and flex throughout the blank without sacrificing structural integrity.
Material innovation and performance
The introduction of NanoParticle Double-Bonded graphite technology represents a significant advancement in the Pure 2's construction. According to Feather Craft's review, this technology allows Winston to replace boron entirely while maintaining the rod's sensitivity and flexibility. The new materials result in a crisper, tighter experience without the side-to-side wobble that can occur in older graphite rods. This improvement in material science translates directly to enhanced casting performance, with reviewers noting that the Pure 2 delivers 'a phenomenal amount of feel with each rod' and that 'the new materials... allow for a crisper, tighter experience without some of that side-to-side wobble you can get in older graphite.' The technology also contributes to the rods' torsional stability, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy during casting.
Rod length and casting accuracy
Winston's decision to use shorter rod lengths in the Pure 2 series was driven by the goal of increasing torsional stability and accuracy. The 7'9" 4-weight and 8'3" 5-weight models are three inches shorter than their traditional counterparts, which the company claims improves tracking straighter during casting. Logan Griffith from Western Rivers Flyfisher observed that 'shorter rods are inherently more accurate because they have less side-to-side movement during a cast.' He noted that the 7'9" 4-weight 'didn't dramatically transform my casting accuracy, but I noticed a difference, especially at distances past 40 feet.' The reduction in side-to-side movement during casting directly correlates to improved line speed and more precise fly placement, which is particularly valuable for dry fly fishing where accuracy is paramount.
Line pairing and casting performance
Reviewers found that the Pure 2 rods perform optimally with specific line types, particularly those that are true-to-weight with gradual tapers. Durrant tested several lines on the 7'9" 4-weight, including Scientific Anglers' Creek Trout, Trout Double Taper, and Mastery Trout Standard, ultimately concluding that the 'Mastery Trout Standard line' worked best. The line's true-to-weight characteristics and longer, non-aggressive head complemented the rod's progressive medium action. Feather Craft's review emphasized that the Pure 2 series 'was not designed to become faster or more aggressive' but rather to improve consistency and accuracy while preserving the soulful feel of the original Pure. The rods' ability to handle delicate presentations while still providing adequate backbone for wind and larger fish was highlighted as a key strength across multiple reviews.
Versatility limitations and fishing applications
Despite their excellence in dry fly fishing, reviewers noted that the Pure 2 series is somewhat of a one-trick pony. The rods are specifically designed for dry fly work, and while they can handle various dry fly presentations and light nymphing, they're not ideal for all-around fishing techniques. Durrant from MidCurrent stated that 'these rods excel in dry fly fishing, and the more technical the better, whether draping a 16-foot leader over a midging monster or tucking hoppers under tight willows from a current-bound driftboat.' However, he also acknowledged that 'the rod shines with dry flies (of all sizes, really—it never felt too undergunned even with a big hopper on the leader).' The 8'3" 5-weight was noted as being 'fine with most nymphs' and capable of handling hoppers, but reviewers generally agreed that these rods are best suited for their intended purpose rather than as general-purpose tools. The series' focus on dry fly presentation means anglers seeking versatility for multiple techniques may find these rods limiting.
Comparison to original Pure series
The Pure 2 represents a refinement rather than a departure from the original Pure series. Feather Craft emphasized that 'the Pure and Pure 2 are remarkably similar in philosophy, yet noticeably different on the water.' The original Pure featured stiff tips and soft mid-sections, creating a distinct action where the rod flexed to the center on every cast regardless of distance. In contrast, the Pure 2 has lighter tips relative to mid and butt sections, with the rod not folding into the mid-section until a commensurate amount of line is in the air. This results in 'superb loop control and moderate line speed offer an elite ability to manipulate one's presentation.' The Pure 2's design maintains the soulful feel that made the original Pure beloved while improving consistency, reducing swing weight, and enhancing recovery speed. Reviewers noted that while both series are exceptional and purpose-built dry fly tools, they appeal to slightly different anglers and styles of fishing.
Strengths
- +Consistent feel and action across all rods in the series
- +Excellent accuracy and precise fly placement, especially at 20-30 feet
- +Enhanced sensitivity and feel due to NanoParticle Double-Bonded graphite technology
- +Improved torsional stability and lighter weight from shorter rod lengths
- +Suitable for delicate dry fly work with good feedback and natural casting
Watch-outs
- −Limited versatility; primarily designed for dry fly fishing
- −Not ideal for hopper-dropper fishing or nymphing in summer conditions
How it compares
The Winston Pure 2 excels in precision and sensitivity for dry fly work, surpassing the Redington Classic Trout's more forgiving action and the Scott Centric 905's versatility. However, it's less versatile than the Echo Trip 8 Piece or the Orvis Clearwater, which offer broader applicability, and lacks the power of the Hardy Marksman Z or the durability of the Fenwick Aetos.
Rating sources
“The rods cast progressively from short to long but with an overall deep load and feeling of connectedness to the fly line. Superb loop control and moderate line speed offer an elite ability to manipulate one's presentation.”
Our 4.7 score is the average of the 3 scored reviews above; 3 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
