The New Orvis Helios Fly Rod Comes with Laser-Like Accuracy
Hands-on With the Orvis Helios aka My Review
I’ve had the opportunity to fish an assortment of D and F models, but to date have spent a majority of my time within the Helios F family of rods. On small mountain creeks holding bright wild trout, the robust 7’6” 3-weight Helios F was the perfect specialty tool that allowed me to throw tiny bug-imitation flies with laser precision between branches and boulders. Not only did the accuracy of the rod’s tip deliver flies into runs and pools, but it also helped keep (most of) them out of the trees too.
On rivers and alpine lakes, the utility of the 9’ 5-weight Helios F opened up possibilities to cast small streamers, nymphs under indicators, and dry flies at greater distances with exactness that inspired light praise from my guide behind the oars. If there’s one rod to pick out to do most of everything, this is the one to pick.
Moving towards the heavier end of the lineup, the 9’ 8-weight Helios D hauled a heavier line and longer baitfish imitations over crashing surf down at the Jersey Shore for striped bass. Admittedly, I’m quite green to fishing in the salt, but I’m equally excited to hook up with some Pennsylvania smallmouth bass closer to home.
As the old dad joke adage outlines, most fishing casts do not result in a catch. Part of the joy of fly fishing for many is the very act of perfecting these casts, So when you land a 12mm imitation of an emerging mayfly precisely upstream from the fish of a lifetime, it’ll eat without hesitation when it drifts down over its head. If these are the kind of daydreams you find yourself drifting into, there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy any one of the new Helios rods.
Source: https://fieldmag.herokuapp.com/articles/orvis-helios-fly-fishing-rod-review
