With salmon and steelhead starting to push into Ontario rivers, many of us are dusting off our two-handers and thinking about swinging flies again. If you’re in the market for a new setup this season, or just curious about what’s out there, I want to shine a spotlight on two rods that fly under the radar but are two of my personal favourites: the Echo Compact Spey and Echo Full Spey rods.
These rods are shop favorites and ones I personally fish often for salmon and steelhead across the Great Lakes region. They’ve proven to be versatile, comfortable, and a terrific value for anglers who want performance without breaking the bank!
Echo Compact Spey
Models: 12’ rods available in 6, 7 or 8 weights
Action: Moderate-fast to fast, with a smooth feel
Best For: Anglers who like a shorter rod that excels in tighter quarters and delivers power with less effort
The Echo Compact Spey is extremely light in hand and a joy to fish all day. It pairs well with a wide variety of lines—from compact Skagit setups to standard Scandi heads—and loads easily without feeling sluggish. For Ontario rivers, where conditions often demand versatility, this rod really shines.
Echo Full Spey
Models: 13’ rods in 6, 7 or 8 weights
Action: Moderate-fast to fast, built for distance and line control
Best For: Anglers looking for a classic full-length Spey that can cover bigger water
The Echo Full Spey is a step up in length, offering extra reach and line control. Like the Compact, it’s light in hand, making it comfortable for longer sessions, especially a consideration when mending at longer distance. It handles everything from Skagit heads with sink tips to longer Scandi lines beautifully, making it a highly versatile option.
Why These Rods Work for Ontario Steelhead
Our Great Lakes steelhead rivers demand rods that can adapt. Whether you’re working smaller water where space is tight or covering wide tailouts, both the Compact and Full Spey deliver the perfect blend of power and finesse. Their moderate-fast action allows you to throw a range of line systems with ease, which is crucial for swinging flies in changing conditions.
If you’re considering a new two-hander this year, these Echo rods are well worth a look. Come by the shop to check them out in person, get a feel for which model fits your fishing style, and let us help set you up for steelhead season.
