Just in Case

Scored one of Simms relatively new Headwaters double rod/reel cases this weekend. Recently I've sort of rediscovered the rod/reel case as a solution to protect expensive gear, while keeping it ready for action. I wanted something to hold a couple of standard 9' 4-piece sticks. This would be ideal for a summer weekend on the AuSable or PM where I might want to bring a 4-wt. for dries and a 6-wt. for nymphing or terrestrials. Grab one case and go. And everything's safe and sound during transit.

I own several other rod/reel cases, but all are singles. The best of breed is my Sage Switch case. A wonderfully designed case, but it's very purpose-specific. Great for a longer, bulkier switch rod with a big reel like the Ross Momentum V. The worst is a generic Scientific Anglers case for 2-piece rods -- functional, but clearly not pretty.

Like most of Simms other products, this one's better designed. It starts with a unique Simms orange color. Orange is a weird color to get right -- too yellow and you look like a Sunny D ad, too red and it's quickly looking like rust. Simms just gets it right. The reel pouch is also well-executed. Rather than a simple oblong shape that sorta' fits most reels, this one has a triangular profile that looks sleek, and hugs the reel. I'd initially thought it would be only for smaller gear like my Ross CLA 3's. Surprisingly, it easily swallowed the aforementioned Momentum on an 8-weight. Bonus!

If you're looking to keep your gear from bouncing around the back of your buddy's truck getting scratched up and/or broken, the Simms Headwaters series of rod/reel cases seem to be a better solution.

-Sean-