Fly Fishing Central Florida

Fly Rod Review | BVK by Temple Fork Outfitter

by Captain Craig Crumbliss

If you've taken a look at the fly rod display in the last few months you've probably noticed some changes.  In addition to the full line of Orvis rods we've always carried, Andy Thornal Company is now a dealer for Temple Fork Outfitters fly rods.  TFO is a relative newcomer to the fly rod market yet their company is built on quality rods and great service through their warranty program.
 

My favorite TFO rod series is the new BVK series.  BVK is actually the initials for Bernard Victor Kreh, although he is better known throughout the fly fishing world as Lefty Kreh.  Lefty has undoubtedly had an impact on the way thousands of fly fisherman learned to cast a fly rod and for many years has partnered with the fly fishing industry to give his input on equipment, specifically fly rods.  Along with Lefty, Flip Pallot recently joined with TFO during the design and testing of the BVK rods so I'm sure he added his thoughts to the design as well.

I have been using the 9 foot 7 weight and 8 weight fly rods for over a year now and I'm still impressed every chance I get to cast them.  The first thing you notice when you pick up the BVK is how light it feels in your hand. 

Next you'll notice the cork grip on the BVK's is actually a bit shorter than most other rods.  Does the shorter grip cut cost?  I'm sure it does, but after my initial disappointment I was actually surprised at how well the shorter grip fit in my hand and I've actually come to recognize it as a plus.  The feel of the 7 and 8 weight is very similar, it is no doubt a fast rod but with a softer tip that makes delicate presentations much more accurate at the critical range of 35-45 feet. 

On the other hand the stiff butt section when paired with a Bonefish taper line has more than enough power to carry 50-60 feet of line and easily cast 80-90 feet.  Overall I'd have to say I've been extremely impressed with the BVK rod series.

One of the things that made TFO so attractive to us is the great customer service they provide through their warranty service.  If you happen to break your rod you simple send it back along with $25 and TFO will replace the damaged piece and ship it back quickly to you usually within 7-10 days for the whole process.  Lastly the price point of the BVK rods is great for a value conscious angler with the lighter rods priced at $224 and the saltwater rods priced at $249.

I've matched my 7 and 8 weight rods with the Lamson Konic reels in the 3.5 size.  This combination has worked well for Redfish in Mosquito Lagoon and I use them almost daily when I need a heavier rod while fly fishing for bass in the local lakes.

Check out the TFO Fly Rods here

Check out Waterworks-Lamson Fly Reels Here

Comments are encouraged and appreciated!