ICAST 2014 Coverage - Correntoso fly reels

ICAST 2014 Coverage

Argentina-based Correntoso fly reels shows off at IFTD

Date:	8/13/14
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	Correntoso
Reviewer:	Wolbugger

Introduction: As one of the new fly reel companies at this year's show, Correntoso blends a very out-of-the-ordinary drag design with quality components. Upon speaking with the team at the IFTD show, they were very enthusiastic about securing a foothold in the American market. Let's see what they had on display!

The EDS drag is made up in part of sealed cork.

Toro Fly Reel: Toro reels are CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with a type III anodize. One of the most interesting aspects of their design is the EDS drag system. At the heart of the single piece self-supporting structure is a cylindrical ring in the center of the reel which expands or contracts as the drag knob is turned. This not only offers a large contact surface, but a very evenly distributed one as well.

The line guide ring has a ceramic “alumina” insert to avoid abrasions.

Another noteworthy feature is the fact that the reel can be used with cassettes. These offer the angler a more cost effective and space-saving way to keep extra lines on hand. The Toro comes solely in a 7–8 weight model and is available in black, pearl black, or aluminum colors.

The aluminum-colored Toro with an orange cassette looked great.

Cassettes come in several colors.

The regular spool model weighs in at 8.3 ounces with backing capacities (20-pound dacron) of 180 yards with WF7F line, and 140 yards with WF8F line. The Cassette model tips the scale at 8.99 ounces with backing capacities of 140 yards with WF7F line, and 120 yards with WF8F line. MSRP is $490.00.

The Puma prototype got our attention.

The Puma should be perfect for trout anglers everywhere.

Puma Fly Reel: Correntoso had a prototype of their latest Puma reel on hand for us to see. Utilizing the same EDS drag as the Toro, this fully-machined reel will cover 5 and 6-weight lines at a price of $390.00. Expect to hear more details as the early 2015 launch date approaches.

Thanks to Ignacio Ordonez, Nicolas Gambirassi, and Franco Rossi.

Conclusion: With Correntoso's attendance at the IFTD show this year, don't be surprised if you see these reels online or at your local fly shop in the near future. There are a lot of new options on the market for fly anglers these days, and Correntoso is a very unique one!