I got lucky and bought this rod about a week before it was released.

I've fished it three times for several hours at a time. I've never fished another nymph rod before, so my impression isn't well informed. But, when fishing it as intended with nymphs, I can feel the flies ticking along the bottom clearly, even with 25# OPST Lazar Line as my butt section. It casts well enough, considering I'm using a Mono Rig setup. I haven't had a fish on because of the weather in the North East, but I've seen similar rods handle +20" fish no problem.

Where this rod really shines is in casting a Skagit head. I can shoot a 175 grain Commando head a mile with this thing compared to my 9' 5 weight.

I would recommend the rod, especially at $199. If you have any other specific questions, let me know.