

When these rods finally showed up on our doorstep, they stayed in their plastic for around 30-seconds to a minute before they were reeled and lined up, en route to the river. How they even built the damn thing to work the way it does is beyond me. The new Blackout euro-stick manages to deliver more sensitivity, and more control, all while boasting a whole extra foot of rod.

Now, in my opinion, the best euro-nymphing rod on the market (that I’ve used) was the Orvis Recon 10′ #3. Finally, the 11′ #3 is, as one could easily guess, designed for Euro-nymphing. This rod packs a hard punch and is designed for delivering powerful, fast casts, around the clock. Next, we have the 8’5″, #8 which, in my opinion, is one of the most fascinating designs of the rod line. Think of it like a 9′ #5, with all the perks of a 10′ #5. Its main purpose is for launching long, accurate casts, as well as making big mends over testy currents. The 9’5″, #5 is for those who are looking for a little more than an average trout rod. Each rod serves a unique purpose and is built for anglers who want to take their gear to the next level. In summation, for those who haven’t figured it out yet, the Blackout line is a complementary line of H3 rods that Orvis unveiled as specialty rods. Upon learning more about each rod, and actually getting to take one out for a day – we only knew one thing: we needed one (or in this case, 3). We didn’t know what to expect but we were extremely intrigued considering this release was shortly following releases of the same nature from competing rod brands. When we first heard about the new Blackout line back in April, we were briefed on the fact that a new “specialty rod” was coming out of Orvis HQ in Vermont. Contents: Orvis 8’5″,#8 Blackout Rod Review Orvis 9’5″,#5 Blackout Rod Review H3D/ H3F Comparison Conclusion Initial Impressions: This isn’t because the 11′,#3 Blackout is a euro-rod. Get the most accurate fly rod in existence and land more fish on every trip.Note: In this review, we will only be going over the 9’5″,#5 Rod, and the 8’5″,#8 rod. Whatever the location, whatever the fish, the H3D is ready for it: Big rivers or saltwater, bonefish or bass-those accurate drops earn more bends in the rod, it’s as simple as that.

Pushing through a gusty saltwater wind is no big deal-the Helios 3D has the power to get your fly there, and the accuracy to drop it right where you want it. The H3D rod churns out precise casts that are the stuff of legend-because it’s the pinpoint delivery of flies that takes you from a quiet day on the water to battling predator fish ripping down the flats. Increased hoop strength means reduced vibration for a consistently crisp release, because we know accuracy is paramount. We’ve reduced the variables at the point of release to focus the energy behind every cast. We designed the Helios 3D fly rod to cast at impressive distances without sacrificing power-and it hits the mark every time.
