I need a new reel for a 3wt rod. I’m looking at the Orvis Battenkill Bar Stock (BBS II) for $99. Any other suggestions - no more than $130. Thanks.
The bbs is a good reel. I’ve got one on my four weight and I have no problem with it.
Go Bucks is right!!!
I have the bar stock for my five weight and have really liked it so far. Good reel for a good price.
I was all set to say the Elkhorn, but it’s a little more.
Sometimes it’s worth paying just a little more.
I have an Elkhorn T1 that I will sell for $125.00 plus shipping. It’s pewter colored, and is brand new in the box with pouch and papers. I ended up using a little Hardy that I already had and don’t need the Elkhorn after all. If your interested email me at:
John
Picture of it here. They come in different colors. http://www.flyanglersonline.com/drawing/
We are giving it away with a pink rod and line.
I am fond of my Marryat CMR reels that I use on my 3 wt and 5 wt and 6 wt rods.
Got them for $95.00 I always enjoy choosing new equipment - lots of fun. ALthough it is a vanity thing, I want my reels to look good on my rods.
Paul
I have a teton tioga that I’m very fond of. Great little reel for a great little price. They are not overly advertised, but they are worth every cent. I love the little thing. Nothin against the others mentioned…just thought I would throw it out there.
GBurgFisher I have to agree with you on the Teton Tioga. I have one and that thing is bullet proof.
I think the Teton Tioga is a wonderful reel also. I’ve got 2 and have never had a problem with either. They are nicely made, have a super smooth drag, and are reasonably priced.
There is an ebay store that sells them for under $100.
Greg
First time I saw a Tioga in the local fly shop years ago, the shop owner took it out and set it on the counter for me to look at. I picked it up and accidentally dropped it on the concrete floor from about 5 feet high. All that happened to it was a tiny nick on the reel foot. The shop owner said not to worry about it - I said I wasn’t, but any reel that can survive that needs to come home with me! Still works great after even more abuse over the years. If there is a more rugged reel available, I haven’t found it. Made in the USA, too!
I’ve got a Tioga and it is a very nice reel for the money but my favorite reel for 3 wt is my redington AS. Built like a tank and works beautifully. Usually when I’m fishing the 3 I’m in pretty rough country. you would have to find a used one though. The newer GD looks pretty good though. My 2 cents. Mike
I have an English made BBS II great reel for 2 or 3 wt lines another plus is that it’s spools are interchangable with the older Battenkill disc 3/4 reels. Found that out by accident. Not sure about the newer Chinese made BBS’s. I also have the Tetons. Great USA made reels at a great price and great quality.
Tom
Yep. A Ross Colorado 1 is bullet proof and just a…a fly reel!
I’m not looking to sell but if you can’t find anything you like better, I would. I have a few, 2 I’m not currently using.
I’d look on Ebay, it’s where I got mine. Fine reels.
Jeremy.
I’d vote for the Teton/Tioga’s. The Colorado was an awesome real too.
In addition to the Marryats I also have Teton Tiogas and a Ross Colorado. THe Colorado does not show up much for sale, but they are out there. The Tioga (I have two) is a reel I would recommend with no hesitation whatsoever. Have fun choosing.
I have an Elkhorn that’s a nice reel. If you are willing to spend less the Okuma Magnitude is also a very servicable reel, quite light and has a cam bearing so there is no noice or friction when winding in line.
jed
Orvis Battenkill Barstock.
I have on I use for freshwater and one I use for saltwater. Great reel for the price. Never had a problem with them. Easy to clean and maintain.
another vote for the orvis bbs. lightweight and decent drag. the tioga is good, but heavier. i have the okuma magnitude 4/5 as well. very light, and the drag is decent as well, but not as good as the bbs. still a very serviceable reel and the least expensive of the three.