Ross Reels, based in Montrose, Colorado, famously names reel models after Centennial State rivers. And they’ve revamped newer generations of many. The one I’ve missed most, and the one I am most happy to see a second generation of is the San Miguel. Not only did I do a lot of my growing-up fishing in and around Telluride, but I’ve always liked the look and feel of this reel. I like the drag knob, the startup, and the overall finish. The new San Miguel has a beefed-up enclosed drag system, and it actually clicks (unlike the original) as line is pulled off the spool, which I consider an upgrade of sorts. I like the sound of a trout pulling on a reel. Retail is $595, so this is going to be a high-end addition to the Ross lineup.
Ross also is making a version of its Animas reel to directly benefit the river it is named after. A special design (green and silver) variation that sells for $350 will yield $75 directly for Trout Unlimited’s programs that improve the health (and fishing quality) on the Animas. Do contact Ross to inquire about carrying these reels and helping this river.
