Orvis ZG Helios 3wt Rod

I'm fortunate to have this ZG Helios 3wt fly rod, which is part of the second generation series of Helios rods. So you know, this rod is very special to me because it was a surprise wedding gift from my wife. As an 8'4" 3wt model, it is pretty much perfect for meadow streams and midsize rivers. It's the longest 3wt rod I own and is a beautiful casting rod to help make a day of fishing relaxing and enjoyable. The rod originally had gold hardware over a maroon fiber reel seat that didn't quite fit my eye...so, I upgraded the reel seat with a Bellinger sliding band model. Ben, of Flat Creek Rods replaced the reel seat for me...he did a fabulous job, and the rod now has the desired aesthetic to match the rod's performance for fly fishing adventures in the Southern Rockies.

There's only a couple of streams up on Rainy Mountain this rod fits for unencumbered fly fishing. For me, anyway. And, I'm looking forward to fishing it again for spooky wild brown trout. The Orvis ZG Helios has a faster, firmer rod action than my classic Winstons, but is a delight to fish because of its mid-flex design. It casts easily from in close to distances over forty feet, no problem. For my purposes, it is a small stream special in those open meadows where a longer rod length is a benefit.

Below photos illustrate the rod's transition from the factory's flashy gold bling to a more serious aesthetic that I prefer in my fly rods. Thanks much, Ben. It's a beautiful conversion job!

NOTE: I learned recently that the owners of the Genuine Bellinger company are retiring. Their website says McFarland Rod Company will take over ownership and management out of McFarland's current Pennsylvania business location. The Bellinger reel seats that were offered through the past 20 years were the most classy, elegant, finest craftsmanship I could find for my rods.

Click on photo for larger view