Does any one have experience with the Galvan Standard reels? I was looking at their 2.5 and 2.75 size for 3 wt. They seem smaller and lighter than most of the other makers out there. Was wondering what people thought of their quality?
Sorry, can’t help you there. Tried to chat with them at the yearly shows several times but they were always too busy amongst themselves. Gave up.
I have the 2.75 for 4wt line.
Decent reel. Got it new, and spool was a little wobbly…+when I changed drag direction, had a heck of a time getting it to stay.
Honestly, in that price range, I think you can do a little better. :o
Have to disagree with the others on Galvan reels. I own two, a Standard 3.0 which I use on a 4wt rod, and an Open Back 4 which I use on a 5wt. I’m on my third year of use on both, and they have performed flawlessly. The machining is absolutely perfect, and they have the silkiest drag of any reels I own. The drag is fully enclosed, and has a very wide range of adjustment. The only complaint I have about these reels is the price, but compared to other quality reels, they’re not bad. This is one of those pieces of equipment that has to be seen in person to appreciate the quality - compared to say, an Orvis Battenkill Barstock. Of course, it’s almost twice the price, but worth it IMHO. My Galvans are among my favorites at ANY PRICE - here’s a pic of my Standard 3.0 I took at the PA Fish-In. I set my rod down while releasing a fish, and when I looked up, it looked like something from a Sage ad, so I just HAD to get a picture of it! 8)
Tyrone Fly…I have the Standard 3.25 for 5 weight line.Mine has flawless machining and finish with an easy grip knurled drag knob.I thought they were a little pricey but I found a new discounted one for about half price.So far…so good.
Best Regards,bd
Great reels and excellent customer service! Might be a bit of overkill for a 3 weight, but they have a smooth drag system and a classic look that I like. Company is based in Sonora so if you ever did have any problems (unlikely), you would get a pretty quick turnaround time.
Galvan OB - AWSOME REEL!
JC,
I too have experienced the same treatment at several shows over the years. Finally at this year’s ff show in Pleasanton, CA one of the guys gave me his undivided attention. He even invited me to come to the shop for a tour if ever I was in the area. Hopefully this means they have figured out that salesmanship goes hand-in-hand with customer service.
I’ve got a 2.75 on a 3 weight and a 3.25 on a 5 weight and absolutely love both of them. Both of mine are green. The drag is excellent and they have this subtle quiet “click” that just does it for me. Can’t offer any input on their customer service - I’ve not had to use it. Hope this helps.
-Darryl