Not All Bobbers Are Created Equal: Better Buy The Best.
Let’s start by clearing the air: “strike indicators” are indeed bobbers. You heard it here first. New fly anglers, in case there’s been any confusion based upon terminology and fly fish jargon being thrown around, make note. And in case you weren’t already aware, bobbers are in fact used by many while fly fishing. Check out this YouTube video from Orvis that shares some of the basics of beginner bobber fly fishing with nymphs. On to the subject at hand…
Is there a brand of fly fishing bobber that’s far superior to the others?
The short answer is yes, in my opinion, after using most all of the stylers of strike indicators on the market, the OROS design lands on top. Here’s why:
They’re easy to adjust on your rig. One of the banes of indicator nymph fishing is that it can require a fair amount of readjustment in order to ensure that your rig is the correct length while presenting your fly within the “strike zone”(areas where fish are present and feeding). Even more, if you’re nymphing on a stretch of water where there are distinct changes in water depth, readjusting the length between your bobber and fly is oftentimes necessary. The OROS design makes it incredibly easy to move your bobber up and down the length of your leader, making it simple and easy to execute those changes when needed.
They don’t kink your leader. While not always the case, there are various bobber designs that wind up bending your leader, leaving behind a kink and disruption within the smooth quality of your presentation once the bobber’s removed. The OROS design completely avoids creating any pesky bends in your leader.
They stay in place. If you haven’t experienced the headache of an indicator regularly sliding up and down your leader consider yourself lucky. OROS, when tightened appropriately, always manage to stay secured in place. A serious win.
They’re durable. What can I say, I just recently picked up a new three pack while going into the winter season which also happens to be my most heavy nymph fishing season, but I’ve had the same handful of OROS indicators for two years and they remain to be in great working order.
They’re user friendly. A feature that may be my #1, the OROS design is generally quite easy to handle, even for those of us who may not have the most nimble of fingers. While the fine tune motor skills required within fly fishing can serve as a barrier for plenty, these bobbers most definitely do their best to contribute to a greater landscape of accessibility.
Want to see the OROS in action along with an in-depth product review? Check out this share from Mad Rivers Outfitters on YouTube, another one of my favorite channels to explore for useful education and information. Click here to learn more about the OROS Strike Indicators on their website. Happy fishing, friends!