GCX Steelhead Centerpin
Two-piece centerpin float rods for steelhead drift fishing in moving water
The GCX Steelhead Centerpin is built for West Coast and Great Lakes steelhead anglers who fish centerpin reels with float rigs in moving water. The technique demands a rod that can manage long drifts, mend line efficiently, and absorb the head-shaking runs of a steelhead on light tippet. Both models share ML power and moderate action, a combination tuned for the sustained flex needed when fighting fish on a free-spooling centerpin with minimal drag.
Blanks are rolled at G. Loomis's Woodland, WA facility on micro-tapered mandrels with reinforcement at high-stress zones. Fuji Concept O guides are specified for clean line management on free-spool presentations, and the full cork grip supports the extended hold required during long downstream drifts. Construction serves the balance between tip sensitivity and mid-section composure. The series spans two lengths, 11'4" and 13'0", both at ML/M power.
The shorter 1361-2CP suits tighter runs and smaller rivers where managing swing is more critical than maximum reach; the 13'0" 1561-2CP addresses larger water where additional length aids line control and reach across currents. Both are two-piece for transport. Retail is approximately $350.
Shaded band: the spread of the lineup's 2 models, as percentile rank among same-type rods. Solid line = series median · dashed ring = catalog median.
- Models
- 2 float
- Length
- 11'4"–13' 3.50–4.00 m
- Power
- ML
- Action
- M
- Line
- 6–12 lb
- Lure
- 1/4–1/2 oz 7–14 g
- List price
- $350
- Released
- 2025
Rods in this series
2 models| Save | Model | Length | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GCX 1361-2CP STR | 11'4" | ML | Buy from G. Loomis | |
| GCX 1561-2CP STR | 13' | ML | Buy from G. Loomis |
Model notes
All 2 modelsAt 11'4", this is the shorter of the two centerpin models, suited to tighter runs, pocket water, and smaller tributary rivers where a 13-foot rod would be unwieldy. The ML/M taper still provides the progressive flex needed for float control but is easier to manage overhead in brushy settings.
The 13-foot model extends reach for large mainstem rivers where mending across multiple current seams is necessary. Additional length improves strike detection and float control at distance during long drifts, and aids line pickup on the hookset.