Overview

The Echo Shadow II is a light, fast Euro nymph rod designed by Tim Rajeff with Team USA's Pete Erickson. Its quick, sensitive tip tells you about strikes, the bottom and the speed of the current, and the rod still throws a tidy loop, so you can switch to dries when a hatch starts without changing rods.

Echo describes the Shadow II as the sweet spot of its Euro nymph lineup, with enough sensitivity and performance for competition anglers at a more affordable level, and says it is one of the most popular rods it makes. Every model is 4-piece with a half wells cork grip and a black up-locking reel seat engraved with a nymph, and comes in a fabric-covered rod tube. We carry all three models: a 10' 2 wt, a 10' 3 wt and a 10'6" 4 wt.

Which Shadow II Should You Choose?

Small streams, when you need every bit of sensitivity: ECHOSH2-2100 (10' 2 wt).

The go-to, all-round Euro nymph rod: ECHOSH2-3100 (10' 3 wt).

More power for larger fish: ECHOSH2-4106 (10'6" 4 wt).

Echo Shadow II Specs

Echo Shadow II Models

ECHOSH2-2100 - 10' 2 wt

Echo's pick for the smallest streams, where a 2 wt tip gives the most feel for light rigs and small fish. This model does not take the Shadow II Competition Kit.

Best for: small streams, small trout, maximum sensitivity.

Line pairing: A Euro nymph line for tight-line rigs; for dries or a standard nymph setup, Echo recommends sizing up one line weight when you fish a non-Euro line on its Euro nymph rods, so a 3 wt weight-forward floating line. We recommend the SA Mastery Euro Tactical Nymph (0.022 in level) or the RIO Elite Technical Trout (WF3F).

ECHOSH2-3100 - 10' 3 wt

Echo calls the 10' 3 wt its go-to, all-round Euro nymph rod. It works with the optional Shadow II Competition Kit, which adds extensions, a fighting butt and counterweights for tuning length and balance.

Best for: all-round Euro and tight-line nymphing, casual or competition.

Line pairing: A Euro nymph line for tight-line work; for dries or a standard nymph setup, a 4 wt weight-forward floating line, one size up as Echo recommends. We recommend the SA Mastery Euro Tactical Nymph (0.022 in level) or the SA Amplitude Smooth Trout Expert (WF4F).

ECHOSH2-4106 - 10'6" 4 wt

The longest and most powerful Shadow II, for when you need more backbone for larger fish. It also takes the optional Shadow II Competition Kit.

Best for: larger fish that need more power.

Line pairing: A Euro nymph line for tight-line work; for dries or a standard nymph setup, a 5 wt weight-forward floating line, one size up as Echo recommends. We recommend the SA Mastery Euro Tactical Nymph (0.022 in level) or the SA Amplitude Textured Trout Expert (WF5F).

Shadow II vs Shadow X and Carbon XL Euro Nymph

The Echo Shadow X is Echo's premium Euro series: Echo rates it 20% lighter than the Shadow II and plots it slightly faster and more powerful. The Echo Carbon XL Euro Nymph is softer and aimed at anglers new to Euro nymphing. The Shadow II sits between them. For the 3 and 4 wt models, the Echo Shadow II Competition Kit adds two 6" extensions, a removable cork fighting butt and counterweights.

Echo Shadow II FAQ

What action is the Shadow II?

Fast, with a light, sensitive tip. Echo plots it a little slower than the Shadow X on its action and power chart.

Does it come with a case?

Yes. Each Shadow II comes in a fabric-covered rod tube.

What is the warranty?

The rod is covered by Echo's lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects for the original owner, when bought from an authorized dealer. If it breaks in normal fishing use, Echo repairs or replaces it for a service fee that varies by model.

How should I take care of the tip?

Echo recommends extra care when landing fish because the fast tip on these light rods is sensitive. Echo sells spare tips through its online repair store.

Which models work with the Competition Kit?

The 10' 3 wt and the 10'6" 4 wt. The 10' 2 wt is not compatible.

How is it different from the Shadow X?

The Shadow X is about 20% lighter and comes in longer lengths up to 11'. The Shadow II adds a 4 wt, works with the Competition Kit and costs less.