Need Reel Help- Orvis vs Sage

[MD_Gene]

Looking at the Orvis Access Mid-Arbor or the Sage 2200 Large Arbor fly reels. I am putting it on my Hardy 10 foot 4 weight. They are comparably priced. I own a few Orvis (CFO, Battenkill, and a large arbor). Any insights are appreciated.

PS. I like adjustable drags and to hear the click when I reel line in.

 

[BrookieChaser]

I've used a Sage 2250. I liked the reel and found it a good buy at that price. The drag works well and the knob has numbered adjustments and detent. It retrieves line at a good rate as well, which I like when putting a fish on the reel.

The only downside I found was it was a little heavy compared to the reels I normally use (Galvan).

I cannot comment on the Orvis.

 

[kobalt335]

I have the Orvis Access for my 5 wt and I love it. It's not to bulky and it makes the road balance great. The drag also has the adjustment numbers and seems like it can stop a truck if need be. It works very smooth and also picks up line at a great speed. This sounds a lot like Brookies report on the Sage, but i can't comment on the Sage either because I have never used it. The Orvis does come in the sweet looking gold though!

 

[fishngun]

Access would be my choice. Either way, both companies stand behind their products.

 

[RCFetter]

I got a Access last year. It's a nice well made reel but I recall someone complaining about the drag in subfreezing temps.

 

[CRB]

Sealed drag is the way to go if you fish sub freezing temps.

 

[Harley]

I just picked up an Access in a II. Really like it. Some sizes don't come in gold anymore, but there is a new color, black nickel. I'll second what Kobalt said, drag seems like its super strong if you turn it all the way up.

 

[tridentfly]

You may have already read our latest shootout: http://www.tridentflyfishing.com/blog/2015-5-weight-reel-shootout-fly-reel-review-and-test-best-trout-reel-lamson-hatch-abel-ross

The two reels that you are considering are definitely the best in class. For a 10' rod, I'd go with the 2250 which will balance better, just don't drop it too much.