# **How to Choose the St. Croix Connect 790-4 Fly Rod – 9ft – 7wt – 4pc**
When it comes to fly fishing, the right rod can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and an unforgettable experience. The **St. Croix Connect 790-4 Fly Rod** is a high-performance rod designed for versatility, precision, and durability. Whether you’re targeting trout, bass, or even light saltwater species, this 9-foot, 7-weight, 4-piece rod offers the perfect balance of power and finesse.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key features of the **St. Croix Connect 790-4**, explain why it’s an excellent choice for both intermediate and advanced anglers, and provide tips on how to match it with the right reel and line for optimal performance.
## **Key Features of the St. Croix Connect 790-4 Fly Rod**
### **1. Premium SCIII Graphite Construction**
The **Connect 790-4** is built with **St. Croix’s SCIII graphite**, which delivers an ideal blend of sensitivity, strength, and responsiveness. This material ensures that the rod loads efficiently, allowing for smooth casting at various distances while maintaining enough backbone to handle larger fish.
### **2. Medium-Fast Action for Versatility**
With a **medium-fast action**, this rod provides a perfect balance between power and feel. It loads well for delicate presentations but has enough reserve power for long casts and fighting strong fish. Whether you’re nymphing, dry fly fishing, or throwing streamers, the **790-4** adapts effortlessly.
### **3. 4-Piece Travel-Friendly Design**
The **4-piece configuration** makes this rod highly portable, fitting easily into travel cases or backpacks. Despite its multi-piece construction, the rod maintains excellent alignment and strength, ensuring no loss in performance compared to a 2-piece model.
### **4. High-Quality Components**
– **Fuji DPS reel seat** – Provides a secure, corrosion-resistant hold for your reel.
– **Premium-grade cork handle** – Offers a comfortable, non-slip grip even in wet conditions.
– **Stainless steel guides with SiC inserts** – Reduce friction for smoother, longer casts while enhancing durability.
## **Why the St. Croix Connect 790-4 is a Great Choice**
### **Ideal for a Wide Range of Fishing Scenarios**
The **7-weight** rating makes this rod versatile enough for:
– **Trout fishing** in larger rivers or windy conditions
– **Bass and pike fishing** with streamers and poppers
– **Light saltwater applications** (redfish, bonefish, small tarpon)
### **Smooth Casting Performance**
The medium-fast action allows for precise presentations while still generating enough line speed for distance when needed. Whether you’re roll casting on a tight river or making long casts on a lake, the **Connect 790-4** performs consistently.
### **Built to Last**
St. Croix is known for its **lifetime warranty**, ensuring that your investment is protected against defects. The high-quality materials and craftsmanship mean this rod will withstand years of use.
## **How to Pair the St. Croix Connect 790-4 with the Right Gear**
### **Choosing the Right Fly Line**
For optimal performance, match this rod with a **weight-forward (WF) floating line** in **7wt**. If you’re fishing sinking lines for streamers, consider a **sink-tip or intermediate line** for better control.
### **Selecting a Compatible Reel**
A **large-arbor reel** with a smooth drag system is ideal for balancing the rod and handling strong fish. Look for reels with a **sealed drag** if you plan to use it in saltwater.
### **Leader and Tippet Recommendations**
– **Dry flies & nymphs**: 9-12ft leader with 4X-6X tippet
– **Streamers & bass bugs**: 7.5-9ft leader with 0X-3X tippet
## **Final Thoughts**
The **St. Croix Connect 790-4 Fly Rod** is a **top-tier choice** for anglers who demand performance, versatility, and durability. Whether you’re chasing trout in mountain streams or bass in stillwater, this rod delivers **exceptional casting accuracy, power, and comfort**.
If you’re looking for a **reliable, all-around fly rod** that won’t let you down, the **Connect 790-4** should be at the top of your list.
**Looking for more expert fishing gear reviews?** Visit **[KyleBooker.com](https://www.kylebooker.com)** for the latest tips and recommendations!
—
Would you like any modifications or additional details on specific aspects of the rod? Let me know how I can refine this further for your audience! 🎣
