I recently got a Loomis str1025 IMX rod, Curado reel, Patagonia Breathable Waders, and the "Beefy" Patagonia Felt Bottom boots for $300.00 from a buddy who owns a Fly Fishing shop.

Does anyone have any opinions about this setup? I want something that will perform well and last a long time. Does anyone have any experience with these items? Any and all info is appreciated. I am a novice who wants to "jump" in and get serious.

You bought the good stuff alright. I have a Loomis 1025 that I hve had for over 10 years. The Patagonia stuff is top of the line too. Should serve you well.

Thanks for your input! I can't wait for the weekend!

I'd say you did really good, but why would a fly shop be selling conventional gear like a curado and a 1025???????

I picked up a pair of Beefy Wading Shoes (and the standard Patagonia Wading Shoes for those days when studs are frowned upon...raft and driftboat trips).

I have worn and tried on many differnt wading boots and the Beefy's are by far the best. They provide excellent support, are very light and have lots of room up front to keep your feet from getting cold on those cold winter days.

I had a pair of Simms Lightweight boots that I loved because they are light and feel more like tennis shoes then wading boots but I have fairly wide feet and because the Lightweights are cut very slim...I blew them out in a year's time (about 100+ days on the water though).

The Patagonia Waders have much to be desired though...the strap's have a tendency to fall apart, they dont breathe nearly as well as other breathable waders on the market and plus they are very suscetiple to DEET. If I were you, I would trade them for a pair of Simms Lightweights which run $199 (or if you dont mind spending the dough...a pair of Guideweights for $375).