adh-world
Fly rods from CND (Custom Nobuo Design) in Japan are particularly well-known among spey casters, as this small rod boutique has earned an excellent reputation, especially in the competition scene. However, it's not only at the casting pool where the casting performance elevates these well-designed rods. CND impressively proves this with their new Gravity series, which is granting more and more passionate fly fishermen the necessary confidence on the salmon river and enhancing the fishing experience. Not just during the cast, but especially during the fight of a fish! We will explain what lies behind these rods and what makes them so special in our latest video, featuring Simen Strømhylden and Stephan Dombaj.
We have extensively tested the entire CND Gravity lineup for you on the water!
With the Gravity series, CND is introducing a new generation of highly advanced fly rods. Thanks to a wide range of different models, it covers the entire spectrum of modern river fishing for salmon, sea trout, trout, and steelhead. In many ways, it sets new standards!
During our water test, we were particularly impressed by the unique action of the rods. Here, CND combines two worlds that, oddly enough, have little overlap: competition casting and application in fishing scenarios. This is where the action of the rods comes into play, described by Simen Strømhylden as "deep & fast." The rod features a deep flex that loads into the handle with incredibly fast recovery speed, coupled with a relatively sturdy tip. Together, they function like a small catapult, propelling your line to incredible distances. This action also has another advantage: it absorbs the head shakes of an angry fish, providing a cushioning effect. This attribute is especially valuable when salmon fishing with small flies (and small hooks) on delicate tippets, ultimately resulting in more landed fish.
The unique action becomes particularly noticeable during casting: the deep load combined with fast recovery enables effortless and efficient casting!
What lies behind this particular rod-action?
The secret to this unique action lies in the processing of carbon fiber, which has been exclusively used by CND. Two important technologies come into play: the proven Bias Versa technology and the Nano Pitch technology. This innovative approach allows for the use of extremely thin layers of high-end Japanese carbon fiber. As a result, a significantly higher number of individual carbon fiber layers could be multi-directionally interconnected. This makes the Gravity lighter and even faster than previous rod series from CND, without compromising on durability. Nevertheless, it offers the discerning angler the characteristic "CND feeling" of a deep-loading rod with high recovery speed. Thanks to its fast action with incredibly powerful casting qualities, this powerful "casting machine" enables record-breaking casting distances that were previously only dreamed of outside of the casting pool. It's no wonder that CND has earned various casting titles. Additionally, this powerful performance makes lifting heavy sinking lines and weighted flies much easier. It allows for consistent casting preparations, effortlessly delivering your fly to the other side of the river. When "spey casting," it also aids in repositioning your cast, providing more time for line lifting and anchor setting, thus saving valuable energy during hours of fishing.
The components of CND leave nothing to be desired, and visually, this casting marvel has thoroughly impressed us.
High-end components for a powerful blank
When it comes to its features, the Gravity is also unparalleled. The designers at CND have made no compromises in this regard. Your line glides almost effortlessly through the high-quality Fuji stripping guides and lightweight stainless steel snake guides. A stylish ALPS reel seat securely holds your reel in place. Speaking of grip, the ergonomically shaped two-handed handle made of extremely high-quality cork adds to the Gravity's fantastic feel, leaving nothing to be desired. It combines the ergonomics of a full-wells grip with the leverage of a two-handed handle.
The CND Gravity fly rods at a glance:
- Modern fly rods of the highest class
- Innovative blank construction using Japanese high-end carbon fiber based on the proven Bias Versa technology and Nano Pitch technology
- "Deep & Fast Action": Deep-loading yet fast action with high recovery speed for powerful casting qualities
- High-quality Fuji stripping guides and stainless steel snake guides
- Reliable ALPS reel seat with stylish design
- Ergonomically shaped handle made of extremely high-quality cork with composite cork accents for excellent durability
- Stunning dark green finish ("Gravity Classic" in #11 with a length of 15.6 ft featuring a dark brown finish)
- Delivered in a robust aluminum transport tube with a fabric bag
Our conclusion:
The CND Gravity two-handed fly rod impressed us in every aspect. From assembly to casting at the casting pond, but especially on the water! Its name truly reflects its nature, as it seems to defy gravity in a magical way during casting. The action is unique and unlike any other salmon rod we have had the opportunity to test so far. And that is precisely the distinguishing feature of the Gravity and the reason why more and more passionate salmon anglers are choosing these rods. The keyword here is once again "deep & fast". Those who aim to optimize their casting while fishing will feel extremely comfortable with this rod. It combines outstanding casting performance with high-quality components and exceptional craftsmanship. This makes it one of the best two-handed fly rods we have had the privilege to test so far!
