Ross Reels debuts 2020 Catalog

Ross Reels has released their 2020 catalog.  Have a look at some very nice gear via this link.  Their new San Miguel reel will be shipping December 2nd and is available for preorders. 

FlyFish Mag at IFTD--Part 1

Sure, I'm as distracted as the next gal about all the jazz, beads and feather boas glimmering at us from the future. In a year from now we'll be recovering from IFTD 2011 in New Orleans; telling our trade show tales with spent voices, squinting at blurry phone pictures to figure out who flashed us, and saying over and over, "One fish, two fish, redfish, redfish."

But today I'm still happy to be stripping in the good times and great gear found at IFTD 2010 in Denver September 9-11.

First off--here are some immediate things that caught my attention:

• An AAFTA board member asked my honest opinion on how to make fly fishing less exclusive
• Logo changes for Redington and Sage
• People introduced by their Twitter handles ie: @troutscout @kyleindenver @roughfisher @midcurrent @deneki @fbrglssmnfsto @fishykid @fethastyx @tundralove @flyfishpro @outsidehilary @iftd
  
• Ross F1 Reel Series
• Free Moose Drool (Made in Montana)
• Not even close to free internet access (Made in NEVERland--as in, I ain't never payin'! )
• Watch out fishy men--the polite, capable and informative fishy kid Tyler Befus could do your job if he was legally old enough
• Tough-guys-turned-art-aficionados standing in line to have their copy of The Drake autographed by Derek DeYoung

Here are some pics from the points above:






Tomorrow I'll be breaking down the features of some of the show's top products, including those from Ross, Sage, Redington, Buff, R.L. Winston, Big Sky Inflatables, fishpond, Smith Optics and more.
And I'll explain why the Ross F1 Series is my "Best of Show" choice.
Hilary

Gear: Ross Reels Ltd. Edition Fly Reels

Announced via Ross Reels USA's Facebook Page:

We are pleased to announce the upcoming availability of an exclusive, limited edition series of Momentum LT fly reels with a Tarpon photographic finish. All reels will be custom engraved with a special edition number. The finish of these reels is like nothing you have seen before! Once the reels have been anodized, a photographic image is then applied to each reel with a proprietary process. The photograph is actually absorbed into the anodized aluminum, providing incredible graphics and a finish that is more durable than anodize alone. It really is quite amazing! The special series is being produced in limited numbers and will be available in early August. Contact your local Ross dealer to place your order today.

Chat with Ross Reels via Twitter

Ross Reels will be chatting live via Twitter handle @FlyFishPro today from 3-4 PM MST (5-6 PM EST). Log in and ask them everything you wanted to know about their fly fishing gear. While you are there make sure you follow @FlyFishMagazine. We promise not to make you drink any kool-aid. At least not right away...

Gear: Ross Balance

Most fly anglers strive for balance both in life and in their fishing gear setups. While you will most probably have to figure your life out on your own, the folks at Ross can help with your fishing gear. Match the perfect reel to your rod and you end up with a smoother, more effortless cast. The Ross Balance adjustable reel arm allows you to fine tune your set up by adjusting your reel forward or back to find the perfect sweet spot for your particular tastes.

The beauty of the Balance adjustable arm is that it can be used with any fly reel. Attachment is no different than locking your reel into a rod seat. No tools are required and no modifications must to be made to your reel. And since each person’s definition of Perfect Balance is different, you can easily adjust the reel to a position that feels balanced for you!

Weighing in at 1.6 ounces and priced at $139 available from Ross Reels.

Gear: 35th Anniversary Ross Vexsis Tye Dye Reel

New from Ross Reels comes a limited edition fly reel that might be as at home at a Dead concert as it is on the creekbank. The 35th Anniversary Ross Vexsis Tye Dye Reel.

In celebration of their 35th. Anniversary, Ross is pleased to announce the availability of an exclusive, limited edition series of Vexsis tie dye reels. Each reel is custom engraved with a limited edition number. Only 175 of these reels have been manufactured. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be purchased from any authorized Ross dealer, while supplies last!

Availability Date
June 1, 2009
Available Size and Quantities
175 Vexsis #2 fly reels
Finish
Picture finish 3-D tie dye

For more information, please visit the Ross website at www.rossreels.com.

No word yet on how they get the rubber bands to stay on the reel when they dye it.

Gear: New Tech from Ross Reels

Ross Reels announces the Vexsis fly reel series which incorporates some of the newest technology in the world of fly fishing reels. Three of these features make us wonder why no one thought of them before.

Magnetic Spool Release
The MagnaLock™ spool release is a magnet-driven system that uses 4 Ni-Cu-Ni (Nickel Copper Nickel) plated NdFeB (Neodymium Iron Boron) grade N40 magnets to secure the spool onto the frame. With an operational life of more than 1000 years, this system will always perform flawlessly.

Linear Drag Knob Rotation
The drag knob incorporates a revolutionary multi-ball thrust bearing drag for an almost perfectly linear drag response, resulting in a constant, mechanical feel through multiple knob rotations. Regardless of how much drag has been applied to the Vexsis system, the drag knob rotation is effortless. This provides the Ross system with greater drag range and usability when compared to every competitive reel tested.

Instant Retrieve Conversion
The twin pawl "over-center" style escapement allows the user to convert the direction of retrieve from left-hand to right-hand with a quick turn of the escapement cover. In less than one second, this conversion can be completed without any tools or disassembly.
Each reel in this series is designed with a specific diameter and width to maximize the properties of drag consistency and quick line retrieval. A dual radial pawl escapement system ensures dependability under the most demanding fishing conditions, and by adding in features like a recessed counterweight that will not snag line, modern machining and a lightweight design, you have reached the pinnacle of modern fly reel design.

MSRP ranges from $245 - $305 with extra spools costing $130 - $160

FFR 2008: Ross Launches Two New Reels

The Arius - MSRP $190 -$240

The Airius is a high-end, hybrid large arbor fly reel that defines excellence in both performance and cosmetic artistry. The multilevel disc drag system is incredibly smooth, and there is no shortage of stopping power in this modern Ross design. In honor of our 35th anniversary, we have brought back a spindle support shaft that is reminiscent of a design from our industry favorite Gunnison series. This large diameter shaft provides incredible stability, and is now manufactured out of fully anodized aluminum that is strong, incredibly light and saltwater safe. The spoke designed frame and extensive spool ventilation adds to this series lightweight feel, yet the Airius is built to endure a lifetime of flawless performance. Each reel in this series is designed with a unique diameter and width to maximize the properties of drag consistency and quick line retrieval. The Airius has been fitted with a new quick-switch retrieve conversion that makes changing the direction of retrieve as easy as flipping ona light. The reel is also equipped with our newest drag knob design that delivers smooth rotation, infinite adjustments and secure settings.

FRAME/SPOOL MATERIAL 6061-T6 aluminum alloy
MANUFACTURING SPECIFICATIONS Fully machined, 1 piece frame, 1 piece spool – manufactured on automated
CNC machining centers
DRAG MATERIAL Delrin 500AF with impregnated Teflon – space-age polymer that is durable, heat resistant, self-lubricating
and maintenance free
DRAG ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM Delrin 500AF to stainless interface – pull frame friction multilevel disc drag system
ESCAPEMENT SYSTEM Dual pawl internal escapement mechanism
SPOOL ROTATION MECHANISM Synthetic Zytel bushing rotating on an anodized aluminum shaft
FINISH Anodized
NUMBER OF REELS IN SERIES 5
FLY ROD COVERAGE 2wt. – 9wt.
FISHING APPLICATION Designed for use in all freshwater, warmwater and saltwater fishing environments
AVAILABLE COLORS Black and Smoke Grey



The FlyRise Series MSRP - $95 - $110

The Flyrise is a hybrid large arbor fly reel that is beautifully crafted with cosmetic innovation and precision workmanship. The drag system is identical to the system used in the award winning Rhythm USA reel series. This is pretty impressive considering that the Rhythm sold for more than twice the price of this incredible new series! The drag adjustment is precise and sensitive – capable of protecting the lightest tippets even when battling world-class fish. To guarantee the level of dependability anglers have come to expect from all Ross products, the drag is a triple redundancy system; providing three backup systems for dependable performance under the most demanding fishing conditions. The Flyrise has also been fitted with our newest drag knob design that delivers smooth rotation, infinite adjustments and secure settings. The Flyrise truly is a premier reel at an incredible price!

FRAME/SPOOL MATERIAL High quality aluminum alloy
MANUFACTURING SPECIFICATIONS Pressure-fed cast aluminum, 1 piece frame, 2 piece assembled spool, machine finished
DRAG MATERIAL Delrin 500AF with impregnated Teflon – space-age polymer that is durable, heat resistant, self-lubricating
and maintenance free
DRAG ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM Delrin 500AF to anodized aluminum interface – conical friction drag system
ESCAPEMENT SYSTEM Triple redundancy radial pawl engagement
SPOOL ROTATION MECHANISM Oil impregnated bronze bushing rotating on a stainless steel spindle
FINISH Aerospace grade polyurethane
NUMBER OF REELS IN SERIES 4
FLY ROD COVERAGE 3wt. – 8wt.
FISHING APPLICATION Designed for use in all freshwater and warmwater fishing environments

Both series will be available from your favorite fly shops starting in November, 2008. Check them out at the Ross WorldWide Website: http://www.rossworldwideoutdoors.com/

Update: I Just notice this in the description - "conical friction drag system" and I am wondering how this equates to the drag system used in the Lamson reels?

Ross Reels USA: RealTree Camo CLA Fly Reel

In one of several product announcements this week Ross Reels USA announced a limited edtion version of their CLA Reel with an anodized REALTREE® APG HD camouflage finish.

Ross has recently completed a licensing agreement with Realtree Outdoors and will be offering a very limited number of CLA reels that have been anodized and then coated with a photographic quality . Each reel will be custom engraved with a limited edition number. In past years, these special series have only been offered in one reel size. This year, Ross is pleased to offer a full series of REALTREE® APG HD camouflage finish CLA reels on a first-come, first-served basis.

We see this as the perfect reel for special forces operators or the blue line angler who stalks wary native fish. It will also match your buddies camo spray painted pick up truck. Visit http://www.rossreels.com/ for more information.

Ross Essence FS & FC Fly Rods

Last month we brought you the news that Ross Reels Worldwide was expanding their product line to include fly rods. Now we have more details about their Mel Krieger endorsed FS and FC combo's that will enter the market at $199 and $249 price points.

NEW FOR 2008!

Essence FS and Essence FC Fly Fishing Outfits
Includes Mel Krieger’s Instructional DVD "Beginnings, An Introduction to Fly Fishing"

The Essence Fly Fishing Outfits are complete outfits. Simply tie on a fly and you are ready to fish! All of the products included with these outfits are top quality. In fact, they are the same high quality Ross products that we sell individually, but when purchased together as part of a complete outfit, you save money!

The Essence Fly Fishing Outfits are available in three sizes – 3/4wt., 5/6wt. and 7/8wt., covering everything from small streams to light saltwater. Each outfit is built around an Essence series fly rod, which is named after Mel Krieger’s most notable work – The Essence of Flycasting. These rods were designed with Mel to satisfy the most advanced anglers, as well as those just starting out. Mel Krieger is unquestionably the top fly fishing instructor in the world, and his Beginnings - An Introduction To Fly Fishing DVD that is included with each outfit makes learning the sport of fly fishing a fast, easy and fun experience for every level of fly angler.

Each outfit also includes a Ross designed fly reel that is pre-spooled with a high quality fly line, backing and a 9’ tapered leader. In addition, we have included a durable carrying case to protect your outfit when traveling or in storage. The Essence FS Fly Fishing Outfits are priced at just $199.00 and the upgraded Essence FC Fly Fishing Outfits are priced at just $249.00. These complete fly fishing outfits will get you on the water with quality tackle at an affordable price. For your money, there is not a better value on the market today! Available October 1, 2007.

For more information about these new fly fishing outfits, please contact the Ross factory at 970-249-1212 or visit the company online at http://www.rossreelsworldwide.com/.

One exciting fact about these rods is that they are not your typical entry level 2 piece long rods, but rather four piece rods. Having the four piece rod and carrying case that allows the reel to remain attached opens a world of doors for the travel minded fly fisher. Although aimed at the new fly fisher, if these rods prove themselves at the casting pool Ross may have hit on one of the most affordable ways yet to add options to your fly rod collection.

These rods are definitely on our list to test cast during at the Fly Fishing Retailer Show in Denver next month. According to a separate press release that we received the Essence rods will also be available outside of the combo:

All three series are 4-piece rods that ship complete with a rod sock and rod case. The three Essence rod series are priced at just $99.00, $149.00 and $199.00. These fly rods will set a new standard for what an angler should expect from an affordably priced fly rod. For your money, there is not a better value on the market today! Available October 1, 2007.

If any readers get their hands on one of these before we do be sure to send us a report.

Ross to sell Mel Krieger Endorsed Fly Rods

The folks at Ross Worldwide are getting into the fly rod game and have enlisted the help of fly fishing instructor Mel Krieger. These "Essence Series Fly Rods" will retail starting at only $99 and will include a rod case and sock. They will also be available as a complete outfit coupled with a Ross reel. Personally, being a big fan of affordable fly rods, I'd like to see how one of these rods performs. Text of their press release follows:

Mel Krieger Joins Ross Worldwide in the Development of "Essence" Series Fly Rods

After more than 40 years of teaching fly fishing and fly casting to thousands of people around the world, Mel Krieger has joined the Ross Worldwide team in the design and development of high quality, affordable fly rods. The first products scheduled for release are the Essence Series Fly Rods, named after Mel’s most notable work – The Essence of Flycasting.

When asked about this new partnership, Mel said,

"It is a pleasure to be working with the fine people at Ross. The company is well respected and makes great products. I am delighted with the design of the Essence series fly rods. These are quality rods that will satisfy the most advanced anglers, as well as those just starting out. While the price is absolutely affordable, these are top quality fly rods that perform every bit as well as tackle costing many times more. A great casting rod is an invaluable tool in the sport of fly fishing, and this is exactly what you get with every Essence series fly rod. I proudly fish these products myself".

The Ross Worldwide Essence series fly rods will be available September 2007, and will retail starting at just $99.00. The rods will be sold individually with a rod case and rod sock, and as part of a complete fly fishing outfit, including a pre-spooled reel, rod case and an instructional DVD, Beginnings – An Introduction to Fly Fishing, by Mel Krieger.

About Mel…

Mel Krieger is unquestionably one of the top fly fishing instructors in the world, and a master at unraveling the mysteries of fly fishing. Mel’s gentle approach and enthusiastic teaching style make learning the sport of fly fishing a fast, easy and fun experience for every level of fly angler; even those that have never cast a rod! Over his lifetime, Mel has helped thousands of people become great fly fishers, including many champion casters, expert anglers, guides and instructors.

For additional information, please contact the Ross factory at (970) 249-1212 or on the web at http://www.rossreelsworldwide.com/.

Ross - Slate Blue Momentum Reel

Some guys just can't bring themselves to fish with a pink reel, no matter how good the cause. Should they do without a special edition Ross reel? We think not. Ross Reels USA presents their 2007 special edition Momentum reel in slate blue. Only 200 of these will be available through select Ross dealers. Check with your local fly shop or visit Ross on the web at http://www.rossreels.com/.

Ross: Reel in a Cure 2007

Ross Reels has announced the release of their 2007 "Reel in a Cure" pink fly reels in support of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The reels are available as part of a very limited edition with only 400 reels being made in the Rhythm, Evolution and Momentum series. Ross Reels will donate $5000 to the foundation from the sale of these reels.

Editor's Note: For an excellent look at the history of the special editions Ross Reels has issued in the past check out this posting from the Southeast Fly Fishing Forum by Morganton, North Carolina fly shop owner, Bo Cash. Bo is the proprietor of Table Rock Angler.