The Orvis Battenkill Disc Fly Reel
The Orvis Battenkill is a workhorse of a reel. With a carbon disc drag and aircraft-grade aluminium body, the Battenkill boasts many of the features of a premium reel whilst remaining true to its humble beginnings.
The Story
The Battenkill disc fly reel, a proven legend of the Orvis reel family, is now ushered into the next decade. We didn’t touch the reliability and workhorse nature—those aspects are not for negotiation. Instead, the team worked to tighten tolerances for even smoother operation and updated key facets of the design like improved hand feel on the drag knob, a curved Reelfoot that won’t kink leaders, and new, understated colours that complement the aesthetic of Superfine, Classic Bamboo, or even freshwater Helios® and Re.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drag System | Carbon disc drag |
| Body Material | Aircraft-grade aluminium |
| Reelfoot Design | Curved, anti-kink design |
| Drag Knob | Improved hand feel |
| Available Colors | Understated finishes compatible with Superfine, Classic Bamboo, Helios®, and Re |
FAQ
What makes the Battenkill reel different from other fly reels?
The Battenkill stands out with its carbon disc drag, aircraft-grade aluminium body, and improved hand feel on the drag knob. The curved Reelfoot prevents leader kinking, and the design maintains the classic workhorse reliability of the original model.
Is the Battenkill suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing?
The Battenkill is primarily designed for freshwater fly fishing. It is not specifically rated or tested for saltwater use.
Are the new colors available in all reel sizes?
The new understated colors are available across the standard size range, but specific color availability per size may vary. Please contact customer service for exact details.
Stephen Walker –
I’ve used the Battenkill for over a year now and it’s proven itself in both stillwater and moving water situations. The drag is smooth and the curved Reelfoot keeps my leader from kinking. It’s a solid, reliable reel that doesn’t feel flashy but does the job perfectly.
Madeleine Rutherford –
The drag knob feels better than previous models, and the carbon disc drag holds up well under pressure. I appreciate the understated design that matches my bamboo rod. It’s not the most advanced reel, but it’s dependable and easy to use.
Amanda Watson –
After switching from a cheaper reel, I’m happy with the Battenkill’s performance. It’s built to last, and the smooth operation makes casting more enjoyable. The color matches my classic bamboo rod perfectly.