The famous nocturnal Hex hatch of the Midwest (and a few other lucky locations) stirs to the surface mythically large brown trout that only touch streamers for the rest of the year.
Iasgair, I may be wrong but I thought Hardy rods were manufactured in S. Korea. Really doesn't matter, as I think there are better options in U.S. made rods at the same price point. For instance, I have fallen in love with the orvis euro rod I recently purchased, which at $425.00 seems like a bargain. I also have some fiberglass rods from custom rod makers, although I paid over $600.00 a piece for two rods, the build quality and action of these rods second to none. I have also built a couple of my own rods, which is a pretty cool option. And yes I paid the big bucks for a gloomis nrx lp 5 wt. But it is also the best casting and fish on fun rod I have! All of these options are made in US, plus I have a Ross Colorodo reel, and Galvan T5, both made in the US, and reasonably priced. So there are options, and yes buying made in china really burns me, and I try to avoid it as much as possible. I belive other countries such as S. Korea and many more are good trading partners and if I wanted something made in one of these countries I would not hesitate to buy it.
Mike.