Ross Fly Reels — Animas, Evolution, Cimarron & San Miguel Series

Ross Reels was founded in 1973 and today designs, machines, and assembles its reels in Montrose, Colorado, producing American-made reels with an emphasis on smooth drag performance, quality materials, and construction that holds up to decades of fishing. The Evolution LTX is a lightweight, large-arbor reel with a stacked-disc drag system, designed for trout and light saltwater fishing. The Animas is their popular mid-range, and the Cimarron offers outstanding value at an accessible price point without compromising the Colorado manufacturing standard.

Ross Evolution vs. Animas vs. Cimarron

The Evolution LTX uses a stacked-disc drag and comes in sizes 3/4, 4/5, 5/6, and 7/8. The Animas uses an open-faced composite drag system for freshwater and saltwater fishing. The Cimarron is Ross's value offering, delivering Colorado-made quality at a price that makes American manufacturing accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Ross reels made in the USA?
Yes — Ross reels are manufactured in Montrose, Colorado, producing their lineup domestically and employing craftspeople in the same western Colorado community where serious trout anglers fish.

Q: What drag system does Ross use?
Drag construction varies by model. The Evolution LTX uses a stacked-disc system, while the Animas uses an open-faced composite drag. Evolution R and Evolution R Salt models have fully sealed carbon-fiber and stainless-steel disc systems. The Colorado and Cimarron Creek use click-pawl systems.