ADH-Test: Guideline NT11 Trout Fly Rods – the all-rounder for stream & river

The Guideline NT11 Trout family has grown with the addition of two new 9.6ft and 9.9ft models to the popular series, offering new possibilities on the stream and river. If you want more freedom of presentation and more control over line and drift, then this video is made for you. We show you the advantages of the longer blank in practice and explain what difference the extra reach makes on streams and rivers.

You're probably already familiar with the 9-foot models in Guideline's popular NT11 Trout series - lightweight, sensitive all-round rods with a modern mid-flex and fast recovery. Now Guideline has added two longer versions to complement the range: 9.6 ft / #3 and 9.9 ft / #4. These extended blanks offer advantages in many waters and situations that you cannot use at all or only to a limited extent with 9-foot rods.

We will introduce you to both models, compare them with the shorter classic NT11 rods and show you when a longer rod is particularly worthwhile for your fishing.

Why a longer rod? The advantages

Before we get to the individual models, it is worth taking a look at the general advantages that a longer rod has over classic 9-foot rods:

1. Better control over the line: a longer rod allows you to lift the line further off the water. During the drift or when mending, the length helps you to reduce unwanted water contact and drag on the flying line.
2. Increased reach: The longer blank allows you to take the strain off your shoulder and reach places that you would otherwise not be able to fish. This is also helpful for presentations from the bank (e.g. high bushes).
3. More reserve and pressure on fish: The additional lever in the lower half of the rod gives you more control, especially when escaping or when you want to steer the fish out of difficult zones. The 9.6 ft. and 9.9 ft. models offer more backbone than their shorter counterparts.
4. Versatility in changing conditions: Longer rods expand the range of techniques - from dry flies to nymphing to euro nymphing. In short: more options, fewer compromises.

Focus on the longer NT11 models

Guideline NT11 Trout 9.6 ft #3: This model is ideal for particularly fine presentations with small dry flies, emergers or nymphs. An accurate presentation at short or medium distances is just as successful as a natural drift with weighted nymphs. If you fish with very fine tippet tips, this model is the first choice! The sensitive rod tip takes a lot of pressure during the fight and protects sensitive leaders.

The blank shows a soft, sensitive reaction at the tip - extremely fine presentations are effortless. At the same time, the centre section quickly transfers energy when you need pressure. The lower blank section engages reliably under heavier loads. The class #3 controls the leader precisely - even with minimal weighting.

Practical benefits

• Very suitable for small streams and small to medium-sized rivers
• Even better control with high presentations (e.g. in pocket water)
• Good reserve without being too stiff
• Enormously high fun factor
• First choice for delicate trout and grayling fishing

Guideline NT11 Trout 9.9 ft #4: This model is a little more robust and universal. It also feels at home on larger waters and can cope with more wind. If you want to use bushier dry patterns or dropper rigs, it is ideal. The tip area remains sensitive, but you can feel the extra power compared to the #3. The blank provides more direct feedback and transfers energy quickly at medium distances. It also casts streamers confidently without losing balance.

Practical benefits

• Ideal for slightly larger rivers
• Perfect for larger flies or rigs (dry/dropper, bite indicator)
• Flexible in many situations
• Extra reserve compared to classic 9 ft #4, but remains similar in handling

Comparison with the 9-foot models

When compared with the classic 9ft. models from Guideline's NT11 series, it is immediately noticeable:

• The 9.6 & 9.9 ft. rods largely retain the characteristics of the 9 ft. models (sensitivity, feedback, action), but gain noticeably in control, leverage and range.
• In really narrow, densely overgrown water, the longer models are naturally somewhat more unwieldy - this is where the 9 ft rods score points. But don't worry! Even on normal streams, you'll get along great with the longer blank!
• Thanks to the lightweight blank construction (T1100 CAP technology), the extra length is hardly noticeable in handling.

Components & equipment

• Blank & technology: The blank is made with T1100G nano carbon fibre and the proven CAP technology (Complex Axial Pattern). This ensures an extremely low weight, fast recovery, high stability and greater break resistance. Despite the extra length, the rods feel light and balanced.
• Korkers handle: The rods are equipped with hand-picked AAA-Flor cork, which not only looks classy but also offers an excellent feel. All rods come with a slim, filigree half wells handle.
• Reel seat: The modern aluminium screw-in reel seat combines functionality with an elegant look. The elegant wooden spacers emphasise the premium character of the series and go wonderfully with Guideline's fly reels.
• Rings: High-quality titanium stripping guides with ceramic inserts and lightweight stainless steel insert rings ensure optimum line guidance, minimum weight and maximum durability.

All components are therefore identical to the 9ft. versions and guarantee the same premium look and feel that makes the NT11 series so popular. The only difference between the 9.9ft. rods is the longer blanks - and therefore the added control and range they offer you on the water.

Our tip: If you want to fish almost exclusively for finesse, the #3 is the perfect choice. If you are looking for a more versatile addition, the #4 is the best choice. The choice of line is up to you! We have cast the 9.9ft. models with various Guideline WF lines and found that they handle everything with ease. However, we particularly liked the Presentation+, the 4Cast+ and the Experience+. If you want something a little finer, then you should take a look at the Fario CDC lines from Guideline!

Conclusion

With the new Guideline NT11 Trout 9.9 ft. models (#3 and #4), Guideline expands the series with two rods that offer clear advantages in many situations. They retain the sensitive, fast-action characteristics of the NT11 series, but deliver more control, range and flexibility. If you want more room to manoeuvre in your presentation and more control over line and drift, these two models are an exciting choice. Combined with our video, you'll get a comprehensive impression - and quickly realise how much difference the extra 9 inches makes on the water.