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Ross adapts large arbor technology into their latest "Evolution" Fly
Reel
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Date: |
3/28/03 |
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Tackle type: |
Fly Reel |
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Manufacturer: |
Ross |
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Reviewer: |
Buzz |
Total Score: 8.78
Introduction:
Anglers can find themselves confused about all the different fly reels on the
market, and which one will be the best for them. Anglers are forced to try and
sort out what features they will need, and which are expendable. This review
will take a look at Ross's newest Evolution Fly reel to see if this new product
is a step in the right direction of what fly anglers really yearn for.
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Ross
Evolution
(2) Specifications |
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Line Capacity |
WF 5 + 125 yards |
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Line Weight |
4-6wt. |
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Spool
Width |
.95 inches |
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Diameter |
3.25 Inches |
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Weight |
3.9 oz. |
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Color |
Pearl Blue |
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Materials |
Machined Premium bar stock aluminum |
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MSRP (Reel) |
$275.00 |
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MSRP (Extra Spool) |
$116.00 |
Impressions: When I first looked a Ross's Evolution fly reel I was
surprised to see all the holes punched through the aluminum. After picking up
the reel I immediately thought " Is this the spool or the entire reel?" It then
occurred to me that the holes served a functional purpose... to reduce the
overall weight. They definitely served their purpose in making this one of the
lightest large arbor reels on the market.
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The Ross
Evolution is the next generation in large arbor technology, offering more
then just a wider spool |
Real World Test: I have had the opportunity to use
this reel on the streams of Northern California targeting native trout. It was
used on a 6 weight rod which is within the manufacturers suggested application
of 4-6 weight. This reel held up very well fighting mid sized native rainbows
that stripped line violently in fast water. However, I was very surprised at how
consistent the low start up inertia of this reel could protect fine tippets
while throwing dries. Granted you need to be careful that when a drag is on a
light setting you don't get backlash from peeling out line too quickly. But
throwing tiny dry flies to finicky
trout requires you drop to 4pound, 3pound, or sometimes even lighter tippets. A
drag with a low start up inertia will prevent you from snapping your tippet on
those firm hook sets.
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The Ross
Evolution feels fantastic on light weight rods and together form elegant
combos |
1)
The
Body: Today's consensus among anglers call for a demand for the lightest
reels for any combination of rod applications. Finding light materials is easy,
but finding one
that is sturdy enough to withstand the test of time is difficult. Ross's choice
of premium bar stock aluminum should satisfy both anglers looking for a
lightweight reel, and those looking for durability. Those looking for both will
be hard pressed to find a
reel that does a better job of putting both together.
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The
Evolution's main body is extremely light and feels like a spool! Quick
Release makes it possible to change spools in seconds |
2) Drag
System: Advanced disc Drag system that is made from friction based Delrin.
Material is resistant to heat, compression, and aging. No springs, No tiny
blades that can be lost or
are susceptible to breaking as seen in many cork drag applications. In fact, the
4 back up systems in this reel are sure to be more than you will ever need. The
stopping power
will also amaze you. Your tippet will break or rod will fracture before this
drag fails.
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The drag can
is extremely strong and provides consistent drag pressure for even medium to
large hard fighting cold water trout |
3) Spool
Design: Having a large arbor reel allows you to retrieve line more
efficiently. It also gives you a more consistent drag pressure on your tippet
regardless of how muck line is out. Big Game reels have been the first to
incorporate this technology, since that is where anglers can reap the benefits
the most. However, smaller sized reels for lighter applications have
been slower to conform. Ross's spool makes the jump ahead of the industry.
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The
Evolution felt great for small to large size fish, and adapted well to both
light and medium weight rods |
Other
notable features:
- Fully Ventilated spool and frame
- Incoming and Outgoing Click
- Quick Release locking spool for ease in changing spools.
- Easy Left and to Right hand conversion.
- Exposed Rim for palming
- Saltwater approved
- **Guaranteed for Life
Ratings:
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Ross
Evolution
(2) Ratings (?/10) |
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Construction/Quality |
Great materials, and solid construction. A
lifetime Guarantee that the manufacturer stands behind. |
9 |
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Performance |
This reel is versatile enough to use for
larger trout, yet sensitive enough to be fun with smaller fish. |
9 |
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Price |
With an MSRP of
275.00 the Evolution is
considered a mid priced reel. The good thing is you definitely get what you
pay for, and the light weight of the reel makes it worth every penny for
anglers that tire easily from long periods of casting |
8 |
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Features |
A good job incorporating large arbor
technology into a smaller application matched with all the features a true
angler looks for. Amazing light weight! |
9.5 |
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Design (Ergonomics) |
The holes punched
throughout make it very light, a big plus, but leave it not looking durable.
This reel simply does not look as strong as it actually is. But many anglers
will appreciate the modern outlook of the evolution. The reel does feel good
over long periods of casting |
8.2 |
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Application |
Rated on 4-6 weight rods,
this reel will balance perfectly and over perform on all of these. Quite
powerful and very reliable for a reel of this size and amazing low weight.
with saltwater capability this reel can be used for many applications from
streams the surf. |
9 |
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Total Score |
8.78 |
Pluses and Minuses:
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Plus
Minus |
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J
Premium Materials |
L
Reel does not hold as much line as some reels
of similar size |
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J
Unbelievably light |
L
May be pricey for some |
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J
Excellent drag system |
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J
Wide Arbor Design |
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J
Very forgiving |
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J
Lifetime Guarantee |
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Conclusion: Ross's New Evolution reel has taken the large arbor design so
successful on big game reels and used it to create a winning reel on lighter
models. This reel's drag system is more than you will
ever need on the right application, and is about 20% lighter in weight than
comparable reels of similar size and makeup making the Evolution a real heaven
sent for anglers that enjoy hour after hour of non stop casting. . With NO
MAINTENANCE and a LIFETIME GUARANTEE, this could be many angler's go to reel.
Keep Fishing - Buzz
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