Earlier this week, R.L. Winston announced two new rod models in advance of this years International Fly Tackle Dealers (IFTD) show in Orlando, Florida. Winston's new offerings include its new "light line" PURE series, and a saltwater-focused version of its popular AIR rods, which debuted at IFTD in 2016.

Winston's PURE rod is a new, dry-fly specialist from a company already known for it's smooth, moderate action rods that are often preferred by dry-fly fishing aficionados. The release of the PURE may be a welcome follow-up tor last year's release of the fast-action Kairos rod that sent more than a few Winston fans into a unsubstantiated panic that the brand had decided to abandon its roots.

Winston describes the PURE as "moderate action rods [that] feature a quick recovery that allows for open loops for fine dry fly presentation, along with the ability to generate faster line speed for different conditions." According to Winston, in its design of the PURE, it prioritized presentation and tippet protection above all other concerns. Or, as they put it, they built the PURE "for those who prefer to fish with a light touch."

The PURE series is constructed using Winston's heralded Boron III material and is available in weights 2 through 5 for a retail price of $850.

Also debuting this year for Winston is a saltwater version of its popular AIR series, which Winston brought to market a couple of years ago. By marrying Winston's Boron III material with its SuperSilica resin system that debuted with the original AIR models, Winston has created a rod that it says offers "the celebrated 'Winston feel', along with balanced, fast graphite recovery rates, for incredible line speed and presentation."

The saltwater AIR comes finished in a new matte "Winston green" for reduced rod flash and increased stealth when stalking the flats. Winston is also highlighting the use of smaller guides on the saltwater AIR, which it contends results in better control throughout the cast and presentation.

The saltwater AIR is available in rod weights 6 through 12. All models retail for $975.