Ross Reels – Precision Fly Reels with Unmatched Value
Ross has been in the fly reel game longer than most brands have been in business—and their legacy shows. Now owned by Mayfly Outdoors, the same Colorado-based group behind Abel Reels, Ross combines elite-level machining with practical, fish-first design. Built in Montrose with aerospace-grade precision, every Ross reel offers a level of quality and craftsmanship that’s rare at any price point. From the featherweight Colorado to the powerful Evolution LTX, Ross delivers reels that punch way above their weight—and cost.
Why Anglers Choose Ross Reels
Ross has been building reels for decades, and it shows in the details: flawless machining, thoughtful drag systems, and the kind of feel you only get from American-made gear. Backed by Mayfly Outdoors and built in the same Montrose facility as Abel, Ross reels strike a rare balance of performance, durability, and value that few others can touch.
What sets Ross apart:
- Made in Colorado, Start to Finish
Every Ross reel is built, assembled, and quality-tested in Montrose using some of the most precise CNC machining in the industry. - Refined Yet Rugged Designs
Models like the Evolution LTX feature ultra-smooth drags and featherlight weight, while the Animas brings durability and strength for bigger water and bigger fish. - Simple Done Right
The Colorado click-pawl is a favorite among purists—no drag system, just pure mechanical control with a minimalist, heirloom-worthy design. - Price-to-Performance Leader
Ross reels consistently outperform gear at twice the price. They're perfect for anglers who want top-tier quality without jumping into four-figure territory. - Built by the Best
As part of the Mayfly Outdoors family, Ross shares manufacturing DNA with Abel—meaning your reel benefits from the same expertise, standards, and craftsmanship trusted by some of the best anglers on the planet.
FAQ
1. Are Ross Reels really made in the USA?
Yes—every Ross reel is fully designed, machined, and assembled in Montrose, Colorado. They’re made start to finish under the same roof as Abel, with precision you can feel in every turn.
2. What’s the difference between the Ross Evolution LTX and Animas? The Evolution LTX is lighter and designed for finesse, with a sealed drag ideal for freshwater trout. The Animas is more rugged and versatile, with a stronger drag system suited for everything from trout to light saltwater use.
3. Is the Ross Colorado reel good for beginners?
The Colorado is a click-pawl reel—ultra-light, super simple, and great for those who enjoy classic gear. It’s best suited for experienced anglers or minimalists. For new anglers, we often recommend starting with an Animas or LTX for more drag control.
4. Do Ross Reels have a warranty?
Yes. Ross offers a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner, covering defects in materials or workmanship. Tailwaters is happy to help with any service or warranty claims.
5. What species are Ross Reels best for?Ross reels are ideal for trout, bass, panfish, and light saltwater species like redfish or bonefish. Heavier models in the Animas or LTX series can handle more aggressive fish and larger water with confidence.