The Ross Evolution LT. It's one of our best sellers. It's a modern classic. While it's easy to take one look at this reel and see why so many people adore it, we're here to find out if that reputation is deserved, or if Ross is simply resting on their laurels with this design. Onward to find out!

 

5-Weight Challenge Full Results

WEIGHT

4.2 ounces. One of the lightest! Ross certainly takes the 'LT' seriously.

DRAG

 

While anyone who has ever picked up an Evolution can feel that it doesn't have much drag strength (only 1.7lbs). We were surprised to find out that it also has quite a bit of startup inertia. At .43lbs, the LT loses about 25% of its drag.

Sealed?

No.

DRAG test graph

SOUND

If there's one thing that no one can dispute, it's that this reel sounds great! It's best of the best.

SPOOL & RETRIEVAL RATE

Ross calls this reel a 'large arbor'. We're here to tell you, it's not. With one of the smallest arbors in the test. It picks up line at a mere 6.3 inches per turn. You'll have plenty of room for your 5-weight line, however as it holds and estimated 120 yards of backing.

LOOK & FEEL

Like the all too similar Galvan Torque, the Ross Evolution LT looks great. In fact, I'll go as far as to say it's one of the best. It also feels really solid thanks to the precision machining that goes into its production.

Ergonimics

Handle: Fine. A little longer would make it better though.

 

Drag Knob: The drag knob on the LT is definitely a little dated, but it works well, just not as well as the Animas.

 

Spool Change: Easy one-button release.

The Drop

Excellent. Like all Ross reels, the Evolution LT is finished with care. That means that even in black, the scratches and divots were hard to find. No damage.

WARRANTY

Lifetime to the original owner + $30

 

Price: $315

CONCLUSION

 

It's time the Evolution... evolved. Don't get me wrong, there are a lot of great things about this reel: the sounds, the look, the machining. But when it comes down to pure performance, the Evolution just doesn't measure up. Most importantly, the retrieval rate and drag are very much sub-par. All in all, it wouldn't take much to turn this reel into a winner. If anyone can do it, Ross can.

 

Help us by getting yours here.

PROS

  • Great looks and finish
  • Sounds amazing

CONS

  • Mid-arbor
  • Poor drag