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New Generation of Asquith Freshwater and Saltwater Fly Rods Announced

A first look at the redesigned flagship rods built on Spiral X Core blanks from Japan and hand‑finished in Washington.

G. Loomis has announced the introduction of updated versions of its flagship Asquith Freshwater and Saltwater fly rod families for 2026. Both series are built on Spiral X Core blanks rolled at Shimano’s facility in Kumamoto, Japan, and finished by hand in Woodland, Washington. The result, according to the company’s announcement, is a combination of exceptionally light swing weight, refined actions, and durability aimed at anglers pursuing high‑end performance.

Shared Technologies and Design Features

Across both freshwater and saltwater models, the Asquith lineup incorporates several core design elements:

  • Spiral X Core Construction: The blanks use carbon tape made with high‑strength resin developed through Toray Nanoalloy® technology. This structure is designed to enhance bending, torsional, and compressional rigidity in all directions.
  • Redesigned Reel Seat: A new curved, fixed‑hood reel seat with refined knurling is intended to improve reel clamping security and overall handling.
  • Premium Componentry: Both series feature black PVD recoil snake guides, with the freshwater rods using Fuji T2 Titanium SIC stripper guides and the saltwater rods using Fuji T3 Titanium SIC strippers.
  • Packaging and Build: Each rod comes with an aluminum rod tube and cloth bag. All rods are assembled in Washington using blanks rolled in Japan.

Asquith Freshwater Models

The freshwater series includes two models for 2026:

ModelLineLengthActionPiecesHandleMSRP
ASQ 690-469'0"Fast4G$1,570.00
ASQ 790-479'0"Fast4E$1,635.00
The butt sections of two fly rods
(Courtesy of G Loomis)

These rods are positioned for anglers targeting trout and other freshwater species where fast actions, light swing weight, and precise line control are priorities.

Asquith Saltwater Models

A fly angler wading waist deep in the ocean holding a colorful fish and a fly rod.
The new Asquith rods are built for demanding saltwater environments and species, where durability, power, and line-speed generation are essential. (Ben Annibali photo)

The saltwater lineup expands the range with five models from 8‑weight through 12‑weight:

ASQUITH SALTWATER
ModelLineLengthActionPiecesHandleMSRP
ASQ 890-489'0"Fast4E$1,635.00
ASQ 990-499'0"Fast4E$1,635.00
ASQ 1090-4109'0"Fast4C$1,750.00
ASQ 1190-4119'0"Fast4C$1,750.00
ASQ 1290-4129'0"Fast4C$1,750.00
The butt sections of two fly rods.
(Courtesy of G Loomis)

These models are built for demanding saltwater environments and species, where durability, power, and line‑speed generation are essential.

These updated versions intend to build upon the Asquith's stellar reputation among its devotees by delivering smoother action, smarter ergonomics, and the same trusted feel that anglers have come to expect.

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