Ross Flywater Vrs Orvis Battenkill Bar Stock

[troutfiend1985]

What about a Loomis Venture? I've had one for a few years now, its taken a pounding and has a very nice smooth drag to it. 100$, a little heavy but that's never really bothered me.

[drew03cmc]

Lamson Konic is in the same price range and has the superior drag system to both of the others.

[Jason R.]

Lamson Konic is in the same price range and has the superior drag system to both of the others.

Ive owned Lamsons, Ross's and Orvis's- the Lamson Konic is legit and you can get one for around 130- Those ross worldwides are definitely made in China and are cast aluminum- not machined- but they are a solid value. If you can find a used Lamson- like a Konic or a Radius- you can get a great reel for a good price and those lamsons are almost bulletproof. All my orvis reels are about 15 years behind as far as technology but they are well made and look good. Oh and the upper end Ross's are incredible but you may have to sell a kidney to get one.

Cliff Notes- get a Lamson.

[mic]

I ended up going with a Ross Flyrise #2 (with extra reel) on one of Mark's RDP Flyrods (7.6' Three Weight with blue metalic trim and gold accents, gold hardware, and rosewood insert) with Cortland line (dry and sinking). Mark just finished the rods and will complete the whole rig this week. I probably won't get to try it out anytime soon, but I'll be sure to post a report.

[Jason R.]

That sounds like a sweet little rig- I just realized we were talking about a three weight- so... who cares which reel as long as it looks (and sounds) cool.

[troutfiend1985]

I just realized we were talking about a three weight-

Hah, me too lol. I have never been into heavy drag issues on my three weight, but I'm still hoping for one to pop up.