The differences between rods are really quite fascinating. The LPXe RS is utterly unlike the BIIx. It’s ‘in your face’, whereas the Winston is cool and charming.

An unusual rod, by its specification the LPXe RS is a 5-weight saltwater rod, hence the colour, the rings, reel-seat and handle shape. My instinct is it should be something of a blunt instrument – all power and loads of grunting. In fact, the LPXe RS is great fun and no grunting.

The full-wells grip suggests power more than subtlety or precision; personally, I like that I can get a handful. With a conventional #5 line this is a crisp bright rod, recovery is fast, the action is fast.

Overall stiffness means the RS should cope with #6 lines. This has a relatively soft tip so #5 suits it well. With a #6 line the LPXe RS loses a little of its crispness but can certainly throw a long line. I preferred a WF5.

The supple tip means the RS loads easily with a short line, loops are tight and pointy, turnover is good. Suits hauling but casting without adding a haul requires little compensation. At short-to-medium range accuracy is very good, tracks very true. With the head of a WF in the air the RS feels willing. It’s a rod that seems to give back all the effort I put in.

For the sake of that action alone, I’d suggest this is not a rod for novice casters and a great rod to start double-hauling with.

The RS is set up as a saltwater rod, Guideline mention bonefish, the light #5 line should suit smaller bonefish flies and at least one line-maker lists a suitable #5 line. Travelling with 3-section rods is not as convenient as 4-section and, frankly, the RS would be challenged on windy days and by bigger flies, when an 8-weight or heavier would be essential. That said, I see absolutely no reason why this RS should be viewed as a speciality rod – rivers, small stillwaters … why not?

• Price: £217.99
• From: Guideline stockists