Written by: Austin Satterfield, MD
The G. Loomis IMX-PRO Euro fly rod is a top-tier offering in the realm of Euro nymphing. Known for their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, G. Loomis has created a fly rod that caters specifically to the needs of Euro nymphing enthusiasts. In this review, we’ll delve into the key aspects that make the IMX-PRO Euro a standout choice for this angling technique.
Design and Build Quality (9/10):
The IMX-PRO Euro is impeccably designed and built. It’s constructed from high-quality materials, featuring a blend of IMX and Pro 4X technology, which results in a rod that’s incredibly lightweight, sensitive, and robust. The blank is exceptionally well-balanced, allowing for effortless casting and precise control over your nymphing presentation.
Action and Sensitivity (10/10):
One of the standout features of this rod is its fast action paired with remarkable sensitivity. Euro nymphing demands the angler to detect subtle strikes and feel for bottom structure, and the IMX-PRO Euro excels in this regard. It transmits every nuance of what’s happening beneath the water directly to your fingertips, making sure you don’t miss even the most delicate takes. I opted to go with the 2wt over the 3wt – not that one was better than the other – but rather I already had a 10-foot 3wt, so the 2wt rod fit in my collection very nicely!
Casting Performance (9/10):
This rod offers superb casting performance. It loads beautifully and effortlessly, allowing you to cast your nymphs accurately to the desired spot. Its 10-foot length provides the extra reach needed for long drifts and precise presentations. Whether you’re fishing tight pockets or open water, the IMX-PRO Euro delivers consistent, accurate casts. Personally, my 10-foot 2wt IMX-PRO Euro also pairs well with a 5-6wt Lamson Liquid reel. I find the balance to be finely-tuned for reducing fatigue during those long days on the water with frequent high-sticking.
Versatility (8/10):
While the IMX-PRO Euro is primarily designed for Euro nymphing, it can handle a variety of fly fishing situations. It’s versatile enough to accommodate different line weights and styles, but it truly shines when used for the Euro nymphing technique. If you’re looking for an all-around rod, there may be better options, but for dedicated Euro nymphing, it’s hard to beat this choice.
Price (7/10):
The price point for the G. Loomis IMX-PRO Euro is on the medium-high side coming in at $575, which might deter some anglers on a budget. However, if Euro nymphing is your passion and you’re looking for uncompromising quality and performance, the investment is justifiable in my opinion. It’s a rod that’s built to last and deliver consistent results on the water. Trust me, after using this rod I get a bit bummed if I’m on the water and don’t have my IMX-PRO euro rod in hand. That’s why it earned a spot in the front seat of my truck!
Warranty (9/10):
The warranty and customer service is also stellar. Take it from experience…unfortunately I had a mishap on the water and stepped on my IMX-PROe tip section while landing a beautiful wild brown trout in West Virginia’s Blackwater river. After sulking back to my RV, I called the customer service team who was incredibly easy to work with and shipped a replacement tip section for $60 without having to send in my rod either! They estimated the delivery time to be 4 weeks, but to my surprise it only took 2 weeks. Before I knew it, I was back on the water nymphing pocket water in the high-mountain streams again!
Overall Rating: 8.6/10
In summary, the G. Loomis IMX-PRO Euro fly rod is a fantastic choice for dedicated Euro nymphing enthusiasts. Its impeccable design, fast action, sensitivity, and casting performance make it a standout option in its class. While the price may be a consideration, it’s an investment in precision and performance that serious Euro nymphers will appreciate. If you’re committed to perfecting your Euro nymphing game, this rod should be at the top of your list.
*Please note that individual preferences vary, so it’s always a good idea to test the rod for yourself by visiting your local fly shop and seeing how it suites your fishing needs. I hope you find this rod as enjoyable on the water as I have over the past few years. Tight Lines!
Link to G Loomis Website: https://www.gloomis.com/products/imx-pro-fly-euro