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Orvis Rocky Mountain
By Scott Clayton
While field testing rods for the
Stillwater Trout Fly Rods review I wanted to have the option of changing between several
different lines. Finding a solid reel that performs well and doesn't cost an arm and a leg is a tall order. Even
reels commonly considered as "entry level" can top $250 when 3 extra spools are included. With the low price tag on
the Orvis Rocky Mountain reel, you can afford to get those extra spools and not break the bank. A Rocky Mountain with
3 extra spools can be purchased for just over $100.
Made in England, the Orvis Rocky Mountain is a spruce green, cast aluminum reel. The adjustable drag system employs
a rulon drag surface against polished stainless steel. This is the same offset disc drag system used on the Battenkill
and DXR reels, also made by Orvis. The Rocky Mountain features cartridges made from durable nylon. They are smaller
and significantly less expensive than spools. The cartridges have line type and weight markings incorporated right in.
Simply use a permanent marker to color in the taper (DT, WF, ST, or L), the line weight number, and the line type (F,
I, F/S, or S) and you won't have to rely on your memory anymore. This reel also includes a built in leader keeper
mounted on the reel foot, however this is one feature I never use. The Rocky Mountain is made for freshwater use only.
I used 2 Rocky Mountains while field testing rods last Fall. I really like the cartridges. I easily carried
Intermediate, Type II, Type III, and Type V sinking lines in addition to floating line. I commonly used 2 or 3
different lines in a day. Changing cartridges is a simple maneuver, as easy as changing spools. I've used my Rocky
Mountain for just under a year now and am very impressed with the durability of the cartridges, I've had no problems
at all.
The Rocky Mountain size 5/6 balances well on 5 weight rods that are 9 to 10 feet long. It is a little on the big side
so if you want to use a one on a 5 weight rod shorter than 9 feet the Rocky Mountain size 3/4 may balance better.
While I don't believe a disc drag is required for trout fishing, as a person who enjoys gadgets, the adjustable disc
drag is a bonus on a reel in this price range. The drag range is quite broad, but to be honest, I set it near the
lowest setting and haven't needed to change it yet. However, I hope to give it more use in the future.
The line in click sound is pleasantly subtle. The line out (drag) has two modes: silent and click. The line out
click is noticeably louder than line in. I talked to a Rocky Mountain owner who didn't like the line out sound. He
really liked the ability to disengage the drag click pawl converting the line out to silent mode. I tried it that
way for a while but found I preferred the click sound on line out.
The Rocky Mountain has a good sized handle that is easy to grasp, even in the cold with gloves on. While spruce green
is not my favorite color, unless totally outrageous, color usually doesn't factor much into my decision making when
looking for a reel. I must admit, I've grown accustomed to the color. This reel easily changes from left to right
hand retrieve, simply turn the center drive gear upside down.
The Orvis Rocky Mountain comes in sizes 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8. It retails for between $63 and $67 depending on the size.
Extra cartridges range from $13 to $15.
Summary:
The Orvis Rocky Mountain is a excellent value. For under $70, you definitely get what you pay for, and then some; the
adjustable drag is a nice extra. It is a solid reel that, when matched with a balanced outfit, does its job comfortably
and allows you to focus on fishing, not on the reel. I highly recommend this reel for stillwater fishing where
changing lines is a common occurrence. If you are in the market for a reel and you appreciate a good deal, look no
further than the Rocky Mountain.
Scott Clayton is the Fly Fishing Editor at GearReview.com.
For more information, contact:
Orvis
Historic Route 7A
Manchester, VT 05254-0798
800-548-9548
info@orvis.com
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