Overview

The Orvis Battenkill Click is a classic click-and-pawl reel for anglers who like to play fish off the reel by hand. There is no disc drag: an audible click gives light, steady resistance and you control a running fish with your palm. On small streams and light trout rods that is all you need, and it keeps the reel simple, light and very reliable.

Orvis updated the Battenkill with tighter tolerances for smoother turning, a better-feeling handle, and a curved reel foot that will not kink your leader. It is machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with a Delrin handle, switches easily between left- and right-hand retrieve, and its ported look and understated finishes suit bamboo, fiberglass and graphite rods alike.

Which size? Battenkill Click I (2.8") for 1-3 wt rods, II (3") for 3-5 wt, and III (3.25") for 5-7 wt.

Want a disc drag? The Battenkill Disc has the same look with the Hydros SL drag. For a modern machined reel, see the Orvis Hydros.