GCX Steelhead Casting

The G. Loomis GCX Steelhead Casting series serves drift and side-drift anglers fishing for steelhead and salmon on Pacific Northwest rivers. These are single-handed casting rods, not switch or Spey, suited to float fishing, side-planer presentations, jig-and-float, and drift techniques from a boat or bank. Fast action throughout the lineup prioritizes bite detection and quick, decisive hooksets in swift currents. All four rods are 2-piece, designed and rolled at G. Loomis's Woodland, WA facility. Price point is approximately $350.

Blanks use stepped mandrels with micro-tapers at specific transition points to reinforce failure-prone areas without adding excess weight. Guide train is Fuji Concept O throughout, a low-profile, large-diameter frame common on river casting rods. Reel seat is a Fuji design prioritized for sensitivity. Full cork handle provides all-day grip comfort. The multi-taper design produces a soft, detection-capable tip that transitions to a stiff butt for fish-fighting leverage. Built for monofilament and braided lines with conventional baitcasting reels.

Four models span 8'6" to 9'6" lengths across three power ratings: ML (GCX 1141-2C), MH (two 9'0" models plus the 8'6"), and H (one 9'0" model). The ML 9'6" (GCX 1141-2C) is the lightest option, suited for smaller water or finesse float presentations on 6–12 lb. The two MH 9'0" rods (GCX 1083-2C and GCX 1023-2C in 8'6") cover the broadest steelhead application. The H-power 9'0" (GCX 1084-2C) handles larger salmon and heavier hardware up to 1 1/2 oz.