Dormisch-Absi R2 Fly Reel Review
Its interesting to listen to the debates surrounding the role of the fly reel. The issue of function vs. value ranks right up there, as does the opinion that (aside from saltwater fishing) a reel exists to simply hold your fly line. That statement is probably more true than false, but seems out of place in a sport where individuality governs every aspect of what we do. After all, if simply catching fish was paramount, we would employ more simple methods. Our choice to fly fish is, in itself, evidence that we’re after something more from the experience. The quarry, the places they live, the way in which we pursue them are all integral to the sport. The tackle we choose appeals to our personal tastes…our sense of function, aesthetics and value. It is this very tackle that connects us with the fish and, thankfully, there is an exciting option now open to you from the design team of Pablo Anibal Dormisch and Martin Absi.
The Dormisch-Absi R2 Fly Reel Review
This beautiful fly reel from Patagonia, Argentina stands out from the crowd! A large arbor, hubless design with the added advantage of what Dormisch-Absi calls “Balance Control.” This allows the angler to pivot the entire frame/spool assembly to customize the the position of the reel to suit the line and rod you’re using. Adjustment is simple~using a 4mm allen key, turn the machine screw on the reel foot counter-clockwise to release the tension. Pivot the reel’s frame/spool into the desired position and tighten the machine screw~done! Customizing the position of the spool is just one way to personalize the R2~there are 11 different spool colors to choose from. You’re sure to find one, or more that suit you…or to match whatever rod you plan to pair it up with!
Dormisch-Absi R2 Fly Reel Technical Information
Line weights:4/5/6
Reel weight:3.88oz./110g
Drag:Click & pawl style
Material:Hard anodized, CNC-machined, aerospace grade aluminum alloys
6061T6 and 7075T6
*can be switched from left, to right hand operation
Price: $365 US
Extra Spool: $175 US
Impressions
The R2 is an exceedingly light fly that would be at home on fly rods from 2wt.-5wt., and 6wt. set-ups that don’t require much backing. (its rated to hold 40 yards of backing with a 6wt. line~probably more than you’ll need in most fresh water situations) The “drag” system is simple, and might be better described as overrun protection. The outer, scalloped ring on the frame rotates about 10 degrees clockwise to increase tension. There is a noticeable difference in outgoing tension when fully engaged, but consider the drag to be on, or off. There is no stop, or perceivable tension change in the middle of this range of adjustment. Again, very well-suited to most freshwater fishing applications in these line weights. The spool fits onto the frame of the R2 by means of friction alone. This may seam unusual when compared to more conventional, mechanical spool-release arrangements, but I can assure you~its solid! In fact, the instructions that come with the reel suggest that you remove the spool when you’re not using the reel. I suspect this is to prevent any foreign matter from drying between the spool and frame, complicating spool removal with the R2’s tight tolerances.
Conclusion
The R2 fly reel is a beautiful, unique piece of fishing equipment at an attractive price point. I was able to try this reel out in both river, and lake fishing environments with several line weights. Thankfully, I was able to tangle with quite a variety of trout in the process. The R2 performed flawlessly, the noise of outgoing line announcing a good-sized fish from time to time. The reel was tight, and all business for such a pretty, delicate-looking piece of equipment. If you’re in the market for a unique, high-quality reel, take a good look at the Dormish-Absi R2.
For more information, and to purchase the R2, contact Dormisch-Absi directly;
http://www.dormisch-absi.com.ar/
