retractable fly fishing rod

ORVIS Rocky Mountain Fly Rod 7.9f 2wt

The ORVIS Rocky Mountain Fly Rod 7’9″ 2wt is a specialized fly rod designed for delicate presentations and small-stream fishing. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and ideal use cases:

Key Features:
– Length & Weight: 7 feet 9 inches, 2-weight (ultralight)
– Action: Likely a moderate-fast or fast action (ORVIS rods often lean toward smooth, progressive actions)
– Construction: High-modulus graphite for sensitivity and lightweight performance
– Line Recommendation: Pairs best with a true-to-weight or slightly overweighted 2wt line (e.g., ORVIS Superfine or Hydros Trout lines)
– Guides & Hardware: Premium components (likely stainless steel or REC recoil guides)
– Handle: Probably a shorter, traditional cork grip (ideal for precise close-range casting)

Best Uses:
– Small Streams & Tight Spots: Perfect for overgrown creeks or mountain brooks where short, accurate casts are needed.
– Delicate Dry Fly Presentations: Excels with tiny dries (size 18-24), midges, or soft hackles.
– Native Trout & Panfish: Ideal for wild trout (like brookies or cutthroats) and bluegill in intimate waters.
– Technical Spring Creeks: Performs well where stealth and finesse are critical.

Pros:
– Ultra-Sensitive: You’ll feel every nibble, great for sight-fishing.
– Lightweight: Easy to cast all day without fatigue.
– Accuracy: Short length aids in pinpoint casts under branches.

Cons:
– Limited Versatility: Not ideal for windy conditions or larger fish (though a skilled angler can land decent trout).
– Short Range: Struggles with long casts; best under 30 feet.

Pairing Suggestions:
– Reel: A small, lightweight reel like the ORVIS Battenkill I or Hydros SL I.

ORVIS Rocky Mountain Fly Rod 7.9f 2wt

– Line: A DT (double taper) 2wt for delicate presentations or a lightweight WF for versatility.

Verdict:
This rod is a niche tool for purists who love small-water fly fishing. If you chase wild trout in tight spaces or enjoy the challenge of ultralight tackle, it’s a fantastic choice. For larger rivers or windy days, consider a longer 3wt or 4wt instead.

Would you like recommendations for similar rods or setups?

MAKING STRIP-BUILT FLY RODS FROM VARIOUS WOODS ON A LATHE by JOHN BETTS 2007 1st

John Betts’ 2007 book, Making Strip-Built Fly Rods from Various Woods on a Lathe, is a specialized guide for crafting bamboo-style fly rods using alternative woods and modern lathe techniques. Here’s an overview of its key aspects:

Key Themes and Content
1. Innovative Approach:
– Betts departs from traditional split-bamboo rod-making (like Garrison or Cattanach methods) by using strips of hardwood (e.g., maple, ash, cherry) turned on a lathe.
– Focuses on achieving similar performance to bamboo while expanding material options.

2. Step-by-Step Process:
– Material Selection: Discusses wood properties (density, flexibility) and preparation.
– Lathe Techniques: How to taper and shape wooden strips precisely.
– Assembly: Gluing strips into hexagonal/quadrangular blanks, then finishing.
– Ferrules & Hardware: Installing metal or spliced joints.

3. Advantages of Wooden Rods:

MAKING STRIP-BUILT FLY RODS FROM VARIOUS WOODS ON A LATHE by JOHN BETTS 2007 1st

– Unique aesthetics, customization, and the satisfaction of handcrafting.
– Potential cost savings vs. premium bamboo.

4. Challenges:
– Wood’s variability in density and moisture sensitivity compared to bamboo.
– Requires woodworking skills (lathe operation, precise tapering).

Legacy and Reception
– Betts (1939–2016) was a respected rod-maker and writer (The Fly Rod). This book reflects his experimental ethos.
– Appeals to rod-makers seeking alternatives to bamboo or graphite, though it’s a niche technique.

Finding the Book
– Rare; self-published or limited print run. Check:
– Used bookstores (AbeBooks, eBay).
– Rod-making forums (Clark’s Classic Rod Forum, Fiberglass Flyrodders).
– Libraries (special collections on fly fishing).

Related Works
– Handcrafting Bamboo Fly Rods (Wayne Cattanach) – Traditional split-bamboo methods.
– The Fine Bamboo Fly Rod (Stuart Kirkfield) – Historical context.

Would you like help locating a copy or details on specific techniques from the book?