Tim,

I couldn’t agree more. I really like the BBS for that reason. I’ve been really impressed with Orvis’s customer service lately. They treated me really well on a pair of waders that I have. Thanks for the comment.

Ben

Another point concerning Orvis. Just picked up a Orvis mid arbor, BBS at a yard sale. Sent it to them for cleaning, as I wasn’t able to remove the spool.

They sent me a new Access ( $ 175) reel, at no charge. I called, thinking there was a mistake, they said the reel wasn’t repairable and they wanted to make me happy.

Now I’ve been a loyal Orvis guy way before this, but…

Eric,

You’re very welcome and thank you for your very kind words. I am glad that you found the review helpful. This is a very fun rod to tote around those smaller, tighter creeks and it sure does lay down a soft fly. Best of luck. I really like your site as well. I look forward to following it in the future. Tight lines.

Ben

Brandon,

Thanks for the kind words on the site. Glad you have found it informative. I am not crazy about the Okuma reel. To be honest, I fish hard and my gear does get beat up. I actually broke the Okuma reel during that first summer. (One of those things that happens while scrambling up a small stream.)

I limped along with it for a little while and my wife bought me the BBS for Christmas last year. I really like the reel and it too has taken a beating as well. It is well made and performs flawlessly. You would be better served to spend the extra money on the BBS in my opinion.

As I said in my review, I usually fish a 10-12 foot leader when the water is clear and the creek is open. On smaller tighter creeks or when the water is off color, I sometimes choose a shorter leader just to cut down on the tangles. If I am not picking up that many fish, I always change out for a longer leader and possibly smaller tippet. Just depends on the situation. Hope this helps. Sorry about being longwinded. Tight lines.

Ben

Ben