ICAST 2015 Coverage - Scientific Anglers Fly Reels

ICAST 2015 Coverage

Not Just Fly Lines: New Reels and Outfits from Scientific Anglers

Date:	8/4/15
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	Scientific Anglers
Reviewer:	Wolbugger

Introduction: Scientific Anglers is definitely most well-known for their crazy-huge variety of fly lines that serve any application you can dream of. While lines make up a huge amount of their product lineup, it's not all they offer. At IFTD this year the team at SA showcased some new budget-friendly reels, outfits, and other accessories that will be arriving very soon!

The Ampere II is well-suited to most trout fishing situations.

Ampere: The affordable Ampere series of reels are constructed out of cast aluminum frames. This large-arbor reel is right/left interchangeable and features a positive-click drag knob with stopping power provided by a Rulon and stainless drag. Ampere reels come in both a II (5 weight) for $89.95 or IV (8 weight) for $99.95.

The front of the Ampere II reel.

The Ampere Electron features machined construction for added refinement over the standard Ampere model.

Ampere Electron: One level up from the standard Ampere reels is the large arbor Ampere Electron series. These reels are machined from 6061 aluminum, R/L hand interchangeable, and feature positive-click drag knobs. Braking force in the drag is generated by a carbon fiber and stainless washer stack. Available sizes include a II (4 weight) $165; III (6 weight) $175; or IV (8 weight) $185.

The top-tier Ampere Voltage model delivers solid specs at modest pricing.

Ampere Voltage: At the top of the Ampere food chain is the Voltage family of reels. Fully machined from 6061 aluminum, they feature fully sealed drag systems comprised of stacked carbon fiber and stainless washers. All reels are large arbor, R/L hand interchangeable, and tout positive-click drag knobs. Choose from a II (4 weight) $205; III (6 weight) $215; IV (8 weight) $225; or V (10 weight) $235.

Fly Fishing Outfits: Each outfit is comprised of a 4-piece moderate-action graphite rod, disc-drag reel, appropriate line, and rod tube. A few different outfits are available including the Trout (5/6 weight); Bass (7/8 weight); Panfish (5/6 weight); and Saltwater (7/8 weight). All are priced at $119.95.

The rear frame of the Ampere Voltage.

Conclusion: In addition to the new reels and outfits listed above, the folks at Scientific Anglers had a few more product reveals under their sleeves. New three-packs of braided loops can be had for $4.95, there's a new tippet holder for $9.95, and a new batch of long-sleeve UPF 50+ technical shirts are available in sizes M to XXL in gray, tan, and blue for $49.95. Expect everything to be released sometime in September!