Hey, it’s Chris from Drift Outfitters & Fly Shop, here to introduce a couple of exciting new products from RIO!
Everyone knows and loves the RIO Gold—a classic all-purpose trout line that has been a staple for years. It’s a line we fish ourselves and highly recommend. This year, RIO is adding two new options to the lineup: the RIO Gold XP and the RIO Gold Max.
These new lines replace the Perception and Grand from the previous RIO series, but they’re not just direct substitutes—they bring entirely new tapers and performance characteristics to the table.
RIO Gold XP
The Gold XP is a versatile trout taper that comes in at half a line weight heavier than standard. This makes it a great choice for situations where you need a little extra punch while still maintaining an all-around trout setup. Whether you're casting a hopper rig or a small to mid-sized indicator rig, the XP delivers.
It’s also an excellent option for anglers who want a slightly more forgiving line compared to the lighter RIO Gold, helping to make casting smoother and easier.
RIO Gold Max
The Gold Max takes it a step further, coming in at a full line size heavy. Unlike the old Grand, which could feel bulky and clunky, the Gold Max features a longer forward and rear taper. This creates a more stable line in the air, making roll casting much smoother while still delivering the power needed for streamers and heavier nymph rigs. If you’re looking for a great line for roll casting or even light Spey casting, the Gold Max is a fantastic option.
Available in Premier and Elite Series
Both the Gold XP and Gold Max are available in RIO’s Premier Series as well as the Elite Series, which features RIO’s ConnectCore for low stretch and improved sensitivity.
Check out the full series below!