Moonshine Epiphany vs Echo Shadow: Best Euro Nymphing Rod
Because Echo and Moonshine have both given us some great options for euro nymphing, we’ve found it really hard to make a decision on which one to buy. They’re both include some fantastic features and the price of both are extremely close. So here’s our fly rod shootout – it’s the Moonshine Epiphany vs Echo Shadow – in our quest to find the best euro nymphing rod.
As euro nymphing grows in popularity, many anglers find themselves searching for specialized rods. So here’s a breakdown on the good, the bad, the pros, the cons, and everything you need to know when looking at these two great Euro Nymphing / Czech Nymphing fly rods.
Moonshine Epiphany II
vs
Echo Shadow II
What’s the Difference between the Moonshine Epiphany and the Echo Shadow?
These two offerings from Moonshine and Echo are certainly not the only euro nymphing options out there. We chose these two because they offer a similar feature set and both a priced in the same range. They’re great options for someone who is looking to branch out beyond their normal trout rod in favor of a specialized tool specifically for tight lining.
While they are both within the same price range, they do have their differences. Both companies have made design decisions that skew differently, so let’s take a look at the details.
Moonshine Epiphany II Specs:
Line Weight: 2 through 4 weight
Model Reviewed: 10’6”, 3 weight
Length: 10’, 10’4”, and 10’6”
Weight: 3.2oz
Color(s): Matte Blackout with metallic copper accents
Pieces: 4
Action: Moderate Fast
Manufactured: Korea
Echo Shadow II Specs:
Line Weight: 3 different models, 2 through 4 weight
Model Reviewed: 10’6″, 4 weight
Length: 10’ 2wt, 10′ 3wt,10’6″ 4wt
Weight: 3.8 oz
Color(s): Black
Pieces: 4
Action: Medium
Manufactured: China
Background: Moonshine Epiphany vs Echo Shadow
There are several similarities about this rod. Both rods come from relatively new fly rod companies that did not exist prior to 2000. Echo was started by champion fly caster Tim Rajeff. And Moonshine has only been around since the last decade.
These fly rods also have a comparable pricepoint. One more coincidence is that these two rods are both the second generation of design. I’m not sure if there’s some sort of Euro Nymphing arms race going on, but the strides that have been made.
Pros and Cons of the Moonshine Epiphany
Let’s take a look at the good and bad aspects of the Moonshine Epiphany.
Pros
It’s very lightweight
When compared to the previous version of the Epiphany, almost a full ounce has been shaved off of the weight. The lighter the rod, the less energy is needed to feel a take from the fish.
There’s less line slack because of extra line guides
Another added feature was an extra two line guides to decrease the slack in the line. There’s a reason the practice is also called tight-lining. And the rod that facilitates a line with less slack is going to feel the fish more easily.
It looks REALLY good
One thing Moonshine does very well is there branding and design. The midnight black with metallic copper accents looks extremely sleek, and the Tiger Eye reel seat is a very nice touch. If design and aesthetics mean a lot to you, then you will not be disappointed with this rod.
The fighting butt handle makes fighting fish easier
The addition of a fighting butt handle is especially handy with these rods. The sturdy frame and fighting butt help turn over a rig that’s loaded down with weight, as well as fight the larger fish you may encounter.
Cons
The 4 weight version is actually shorter than the 2 and 3 weight versions
One of the key aspects of specialized euro nymphing rods is the added length. This gives the angler extra reach when tight lining over a fishing hole. So it’s not clear to me when the 2 and 3 weight versions are both longer than the 4 weight.
Pros and Cons of the Echo Shadow
Echo offers a small number of different Euro Nymphing options. Let’s dive deeper into the Shadow II and how it compares to the Epiphany.
Pros
It’s very well-balanced
Although this rod is heavier than the Epiphany, it feels very well balanced. There is even a competition edition that includes extra counter weights and rod lengthening segments to further dial in the rod for different depths, distances, and currents.
It’s strong
This rod is made using a high modulus graphite blank. And even though the rod is tuned for sensitivity, it’s also extremely strong for the times when you’re surprised with a large fish from the bottom of the hole.
Fast action tip
Echo has designed this rod for medium action, except for the tip which is fast action. This stiffer tip means that the rod is more sensitive and enables you to feel the slightest sip of your nymph. While the medium action allows greater flexibility and is more forgiving when fighting fish.
Cons
The looks are mediocre
While the Epiphany has more flourish to the design, the Shadow is more spartan in its appearance. The only artistic embellishment is the stonefly graphic on the reel seat and the Echo logo. Whether or not this is a deal breaker for you has more to do with your personal taste and less of a universal detriment.
Moonshine Epiphany vs Echo Shadow: Which is better?
While I can truly appreciate the design tradeoffs that have been made by both companies, I’ve got to make a decision based on my values and perceptions. For this comparison I think my choice would be the Moonshine Epiphany.
My choice is based on the fact that it’s a lighter offering, the extra line guides,I like that Moonshine includes an extra tip in addition to their lifetime rod warranty, I like the fighting butt handles, and lastly, I prefer the Moonshine designs.
However my reasons may not be the same as yours. Maybe you like how the Shadow feels, you don’t care about designs, and you prefer the competition kit to customize and dial in the rod. And that’s ok. In the end it’s really a subjective value judgement based on your own wants and needs.
But one thing is for sure – both rods would be an excellent choice to add to your collection.
Moonshine Epiphany II
vs
Echo Shadow II
If you’d like to learn more about these fly rods, check out our reviews for each of them!
