Rambling Review – Orvis Battenkill Bar Stock II Reel
Why:
When I have the free Saturday to head where I want to, I point the truck towards the small streams that run cold and clear from the Mogollon Rim. This water is perfect for my TFO Finesse 3 weight and its delicate presentation. When I first bought this rod, I coupled it with a cheaper reel that did not make it through a full season of my tripping and slipping on the small creeks. After doing some investigating, I decided on the simple, yet rugged Orvis Battenkill to compliment the Temple Fork rod. I have been nothing but happy.
First impressions:
Durable Construction – The Battenkill Bar Stock is a solid reel with very durable aluminum components and a solid fitting. It felt tough and stout even for its small size.
Lightweight – When holding the BBS reel in the Orvis shop, it was noticeably lighter then several of the other reels that I compared it to. The manager explained that it was made from machined aluminum instead of being die-cast. Mumbo-jumbo aside, looking at the weight specs, this reel is considerably lighter than other reels in its neighborhood.
Simplicity – The Orvis Battenkill Bar Stock has a simple yet classy look. Not one for a high tech or flashy look, I was really drawn to the aesthetics of the BBS. Once the reel was on the rod, I liked the look even more.
Field Use:
The Battenkill Bar Stock and the TFO Finesse are dynamic small stream duo. The reel balances sweetly on the rod and casting is mostly mindless without a second thought to the reel. After the first several trips out I really began to appreciate the simplicity and toughness of this small lightweight reel. Sure, at the end of the day, a small stream reel is just a glorified line holder, but the functionality and the rugged construction is a must have when banging around the creek.
I do not tend to get into too many monsters on the small Arizona creeks, and when I do, I try to make short work of the fight. With that said, the BBS has a solid drag that on some bigger water could come in handy.
Pros:
Weight – Very light in comparison to reels in the neighborhood
Durable/Solid Construction
Orvis 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Simple Classic Look – Functional not flashy
Cons:
A little more money than some of the economy reels, but well worth the expense
Prognosis: A high quality, lightweight reel that has the durability to withstand the abuse of the bumbling small creek fly fisherman.
* Disclaimer:
The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review. My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.
The whole Battenkill series is great. I own a Battenkill from the late 90’s and I have used a friends large arbor and they are both solid reels. So when I saw you were reviewing the bar stock I expected nothing less then the praises you gave it. Great review again.
Glad you agree Bruce. A great reel for sure. I am looking to update my 5 weight reel too and it’s pretty much a no brainer for me. Thanks for the kind words.
Ben
I’ve been using the Bar Stock reels for almost a decade. I own two of them plus a bunch of spare spools. They’re very nice. Truth told, 99% of the time they’re just fancy line holders, but they’re very nice, reliable, line holders. I can’t see a reason to ever use anything else.
“but they’re very nice line holders…”
That’s a great line Steve. I have to agree. I do love the Bar Stocks…
Ben
Your reviews are always so good. You include all the important information for consideration.
I’m with you, I love the look of this reel. Nothing flashy, just classic and functional.
Thanks Stephanie. That’s really kind of you and I’m glad you like the reviews. Orvis makes a solid reel for sure…
Ben
Hi… I´m a happy owner of a BBS III. I use it since 4 years in Patagonia (Argentina and sometimes in Chile). Was quite expensive, but, now trough some years of rought use, I thinks was a great selection.
Is very simple to dissasembly for maintenaince, I made twice.
Thanks for your review!
Thanks for the kind words on the review Luis and glad you felt the same way. This little reel really is a gem. I hope you have many more happy years with yours.
Ben
I have a very old Battenkill BBS II in a 4-weight that has worked for decades. I saw your site looking for spare spools. Any help in where to look for a backup spool. Orvis can’t help me. I wonder if your friend, Steve Z, would be willing to sell one?
( BBS II in a 4-weight)
Thanks, Michael holmes
Sorry Michael. Wish I could offer some help but I have no idea where to pick up a backup spool. Best of luck.
Ben