The St. Croix Imperial USA proves that a genuinely American-made fly rod doesn't have to carry a flagship price tag. Built in Park Falls, Wisconsin, this series pairs a smooth, forgiving action with the kind of quality control that has made St. Croix a trusted name on trout water for generations. It's a rod that rewards anglers at every level, from those still learning to feel a cast load to seasoned hands who simply appreciate honest craftsmanship and dependable performance.
A blend of high-modulus SCIV and premium SCII carbon gives the Imperial USA a lively, responsive feel with plenty of backbone in the heavier line weights for streamers, hoppers, and windy afternoons. Lighter models handle delicate dry-fly presentations and long leaders with ease, while the bigger weights step up for bass, light saltwater, and broad western rivers. Whatever water you fish, this rod delivers accuracy and quick recovery well beyond its modest cost.
Key features
- Blend of high-modulus SCIV and premium SCII carbon for a responsive, durable blank
- Integrated Poly Curve tooling for efficient energy transfer and quick rod recovery
- Fortified Resin System adds roughly 33% more blank strength over standard methods
- Slim-profile ferrules for added strength with minimal weight at the joints
- PVD-coated snake guides and 3D stripper guides with aluminum-oxide rings
- Premium-grade cork handles sized by line weight, from cigar to full-wells
- Machined-aluminum reel seat with wood insert on lighter models
- Designed and built in Park Falls, WI, and backed by a 15-year transferable warranty
Come cast the Imperial USA in person at Ed's Fly Shop, 432 E Main St in Montrose, Colorado.