Looking at three reels, need help picking

[A Polinger]

I am looking to get a 5 wt rod outfit. I got therod picked out but I'm not sure on the reel. I am looking at 3 the Lamson Guru, Ross Vexis, and the Nautlus Featherweight. Anyone use any of these? I don't know if I could go $320 for a trout reel.
Thanks for any feedback.

AP

 

[PRomano]

In 1987 on a trip to Alaska, someone introduced me to Ross reels. I haven't used any other brand since. IMHO they are the best.

 

[ratmatt]

I have a Ross, and a Bauer....I like the Ross much better, its lighter I like the drag system better and it just looks nicer on the rod.....I say get a Ross....

 

[Trout Nazi]

Nautilus. I have a Lamson, very nice, but too fragile. The Vexis is tempermental, need to keep it spotless. I love my Nautilus, very smooth drag, light, and it looks good too.

 

[emerger]

I have a Ross Evolution. Great reel. Smooth drag, never a problem with it. The same can be said for the Galvan Torque. I recomend either one.

 

[waterworker]

Lamson Litespeed or even Velosity....on clearance at waterworks -lamson web site Reg 229....now 160

 

[NJpatbee]

I know this is of no help, but buy a used Hardy LRH Lightweight and it will last lifetimes.

 

[cafriguy]

Tell you what, I have a couple which I am thrilled with... Ross Evo 2 for a 5wt. Never a problem, little oil on the shaft like we all need is all there is to do. Also for my 4wt (I'm sure it'd be tops in 5wt too) I use a Lamson Konic- really love it if you can get over the click. There it is... By the way the konic @ 119 bucks is ludicrous... cheaper than the evo extra spool- something to think about.

 

[mbwmn]

you could get (2) Lamson Velocity 1.5's (2008 models are on clearance for less than $140.), OR:
Bauer Mackenzie Superlight 1 (M1SL)
Ross Evolution 1.5

i really like the Ross for it's light weight. but if you're hard on equipment, or this setup will be in a boat get the Bauer.

could buy 2 Lamsons and toss them after they start coming apart...

if spending the $300 once in a lifetime is too much, consider a used Ross or Bauer.

 

[Johnw]

Loomis Adventure worth a look. More than you'll ever need for $100.

 

[Trouser Trout]

Fly Reels | Trout Fishing Reel / Battenkill Bar Stock Reels -- Orvis

Go to Orvis.com, for $119 you can buy a sweet reel, I think if you buy the line through them they will put it on with backing for the same cost.

 

[Ryan R]

Orvis Battenkill Mid-arbor. Best $129 you'll ever spend on a reel.

 

[DoubleHaul]

I would probably stay away from the Lamson. Buddy of mine has one. He loves it but it has locked up 3x and he has to send it back all every time to get the spool off the frame. Yup customer service is great but i'd rather have a product that need for little. Orvis or Ross is my vote.

 

[MACFLY]

Seeing as this thread started in June, Im gonna guess and say he has made his mind up already

 

[Stonefly]

I hate to admit how many reels I have, some going back to the late 60's.
But to answer you question I have the Guru, 1.5 and it really can't handle a 5 wt line with much backing. I put a four wt on it instead, retiring a 20 year old Lamson. I have two Ross Evolutions and feel they have the best drags systems and are very smooth. I also have a Lamson Velosity 3.5 I have a 8wt on. I have had to send it back twice as they get damaged easy.

For the money go with a Ross Evolution. They have up graded to a new model, but Ramsey Outdoor still has the original at a good price.

 

[golden beetle]

Go with the cheapest of the three, because you are worth it.

 

[brookie maniac]

Orvis battenkill reels are always great (I like the gold color). If you can't pay that high, than any Lamson reel is a good one. It's really a matter of personal preference, go to the fly shop and try them out.

 

[brough]

AP,

Maybe a little late, or maybe someone else can benefit, today I was looking through Cabelas site and noticed that the Ross Vexsis was on a pretty good discount.

 

[danme]

I would recomend a Hardy Princess or as previously mentioned a Hardy LRH --- Both reels will give you many years of trouble free pleasure

Peace

 

[Eagle Claw]

Waterworker, I have a problem with the Lamson Lite Speed, I hate the feature for taking off the spool. As you know it requires you to jam your fingers into small holes on the back side to push the spool until it pops off. I have torn up my thumbs and drawn blood more than once, in the winter when the seals are cold and not very flexible its almost impossible. Good reel but that part sucks. For the price you should not have to endure pain and blood to remove a spool.

 

[BIGBOW]

I agree with others who said Orvis, especially for the money. I have a bunch of different reels, but the last several I've purchased have all been by Orvis, mostly their barstock and original Battenkill reels. I have no need to look at other brands since they've been so good to me.

 

[danme]

I know this is of no help, but buy a used Hardy LRH Lightweight and it will last lifetimes.

I agree 100 percent -- You cant Get Better than a tried and true Hardy LRH Featherweight Princess Any of them will make you VERY VERY HAPPY