Best line for a Battenkill 7 1/2 ft. rod

[sport]

I have a Battenkill rod I purchased in 1970 which at the time Orvis called their "Basic for Trout" rod. It is 7 1/2 long, rated for a #6 line. I purchased this rod at the suggestion of my Tool and Die Maker instructor, who also made me purchase several Model 12 shotguns thinking they would be a good investment, but that is another story. Anyway, this rod has been fished probably twice. Now in my senior years, I want to fish this rod. What line would you recommend? I have read that these older bamboo rods cast better with different line sizes then were originally reccomended. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

[djo]

Many think that this is best taper Orvis came up with. It casts smooth and works well with dries and nymphs. I use it with a 5 DT - usually a Cortland 444 peach. I have used a 6 WF and liked that too. I don't know how your model 12s turned out but this is great rod. Enjoy.

David

[AgMD]

I have a much earlier version of this rod and it has become my favorite. I first fished it with a Cortland 333 6 wt DT but I now fish it with a 6 wt dt silk.
AgMD

[Bamboozle]

Sport:

Don't be afraid to fish the older Orvis bamboo rods with the recommended line weight; in your case a 6wt. The slower action of those older rods is something that is a delight to fish.

I own several Orvis bamboo rods that have a sweet slow action that I love although I'm sure many folks would be inclined to fish them with a line size lighter. With a 1970 vintage I would fish a DT6F 444 Peach which was the benchmark around the time that rod was made.

Enjoy your rod!

[Satchel]

Just to stir the pot a little. I have a 7 1/2' bamboo and cast a Cortland Sylk DT line in the designated line wt. for the rod, in my case a 4 wt. Just a thought

[anglerdave]

sport

Sent you a pm.

[lesyoung]

sport - Orvis has made many tapers in 7'6". One excellent rule of thumb to help with your best line weight (assuming modern plastic lines) is weight.

Another refinement in making a judgement is the age of the rod, which the serial number can help pinpoint.

For what it's worth, Orvi in this length can go from a 4wt to even a 7, depending on the amount of wood and taper.

tl
les

[DARKSTAR]

lesyoung is wise

what is the weight of the rod? Rated a 6wt I am gonna guess it to be 3 5/8 or 3 7/8, I think...

[nighthawk]

Just to stir the pot a little. I have a 7 1/2' bamboo and cast a Cortland Sylk DT line in the designated line wt. for the rod, in my case a 4 wt. Just a thought

That Sylk line is sweet. I cast a DT-6W-F with my Monty Western Special.

[gadabout]

If it's the 3 7/8 oz 2-piece model, I like a DT5 on it. I use an Air Cel Supreme 2.