Ross F1 #2 Fly Reel Review

Based in Montrose, Colorado, Ross is one of the world's leading fly reel manufacturers. Over the years, Ross Reels have become a virtual household name in fly fishing. We really liked the Ross F1 fly reel the last time we tested it, and we were particularly excited to see how it would fare in a freshwater-oriented test. 5-Wt Challenge Full Results

WEIGHT

5.65 ounces. A little on the heavy side for a 9' rod.

DRAG

If you read our 8-weight Reel Shootout, you know that we raved about the drag on the Ross F1. Fortunately, the drag on the 5-weight is just as good. In fact, we're pretty sure that it's exactly the same drag as is used in the 8-weight model (a quick torque calculation shows that it's the same), as opposed to a scaled down version which would reduce weight. The drag is very adjustable, taking 4 full turns to go from minimum to maximum drag. Of course, we still like the "constant pressure" drag adjustment knob, which is a fantastic feature and all of the testers commented on its ease of use. Better still, the Ross F1 #2 has more drag than the #4 - 4.4 lbs - which puts it in the top 10.

SEALED?

To our surprise, the F1, turned out to be perfectly sealed despite it's design.

DRAG TEST GRAPH

SOUND

While we didn't care for its sound on the flats, the F1 actually sounds pretty good for a trout reel. It's got great feedback in both directions, and sounds a little like an old fashioned click-pawl on the way out.

SPOOL & RETRIEVAL RATE

The F1 was in the middle of the pack in terms of spool design - a little wider (1.09 in) and with a smaller arbor than we'd like. It retrieved line at 7.42 inches per turn and holds an estimated 109 yards of backing.

LOOK & FEEL

While the drag-adjustment side of the F1 seems a little over-machined, it's less noticeable in the smaller sizes. Overall, the F1 is a good looking reel that gives you a definite feeling of quality when you pick it up. It's also got a machined one-piece reel seat, just like Hatch. Testers also liked the 'open arbor' design which helps the backing dry if you drop your reel in the water.

Ergonimics

Handle: The handle is flat and features a carbon fiber accent - it's pretty comfortable, but not the best we've tested. It's a little too thick too be in the top of its class. Drag Knob: Not as easy to grab as some of the top drag knobs, out there, but the constant torque is a nice feature. Spool Change: Quick change spool with a one button release.

The Drop

Above Average. The F1 did fairly well in the scratch test (though it's much harder to see damage on a silver reel), but had some significant divots. No damage.

WARRANTY

Lifetime to the original owner + $30 fee. Price: $530

CONCLUSION

The F1 has one of the most amazing drags we've ever tested. Unfortunately, it suffered in the scoring, largely due to its weight, which was almost 2 ounces heavier than the Lamson Litespeed. If you're looking for a reel to go on your Czech nymphing rod, this should be on the short list. Help us review more gear! Buy it here.

PROS

• Amazingly smooth, powerful, sealed drag
• Great made-in-the-USA quality

CONS

• Too heavy for the lightest 9' 5wt rods.