Ross Evolution R Salt
In Stock • Bozeman, MT
- Industry leading power-to-weight ratio in a fully sealed system
- All internal components are machined stainless steel, finished with a special coating for saltwater durability
- Fully machined canvas phenolic handle
- Type II anodized for the perfect balance of hardness and color
- Quick release spool and easy left-hand to right-hand retrieve conversion
Description
The R Salt builds on the foundation of its smaller sibling, but instead of the Evolution R’s 7-disc system, it features a supercharged 16-disc sealed drag system comprised of stainless steel and carbon fluoropolymer, producing nearly 30 pounds of drag pressure. Also an industry first, the R Salt features two smaller counterbalances on the spool - this innovative design reduces mass and creates perfect, vibration-free performance when line is being ripped off the spool on long runs.
This exceptional braking power is housed in a lightweight, yet incredibly strong frame and spool that is based on the Evolution R’s unique design. The large, frame-integrated drag knob allows for easy on-the-fly adjustments with just the palm of your hand during long fights with oversized quarry. The R Salt's geometry is reinforced throughout, yielding an incredibly rugged, yet elegant reel that performs in the most challenging of environments.
All of this comes together to create a fishing tool with a power-to-weight ratio never before seen in a saltwater fly reel, making the R Salt the most unique, best performing reel per dollar of any on the water today.
Size Chart
| Target Species | Recommended Model | Line Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Bonefish | 7/8 | 7–8 wt |
| Permit | 7/8, 9/10 | 8–10 wt |
| Redfish | 7/8 | 7–8 wt |
| Tarpon | 9/10, 11/12 | 10–12 wt |
| Giant Trevally | 11/12 | 10–12 wt |
| Roosterfish | 9/10, 11/12 | 9–11 wt |
| Triggerfish | 7/8, 9/10 | 8-10 wt |
| Snook | 7/8, 9/10 | 8–10 wt |
| Striped Bass | 7/8, 9/10 | 8–10 wt |
FAQ
Who Is the Ross Evolution R Salt For?
The Evolution R Salt is designed for anglers who want true big-game saltwater performance without the weight traditionally associated with high-drag reels. Built around Ross's flagship Evolution platform, the R Salt delivers nearly 30 pounds of drag pressure while remaining remarkably lightweight and balanced.
This reel is an excellent choice for anglers targeting permit, tarpon, giant trevally, roosterfish, striped bass, and other species where drag performance and durability matter just as much as line capacity. It particularly appeals to anglers who appreciate lightweight tackle but refuse to compromise when it comes to stopping power.
How does the R Salt's drag system differ from the standard Evolution R?
While the freshwater Evolution R uses a 7-disc drag system, the R Salt steps up to a 16-disc sealed drag built from stainless steel and carbon fluoropolymer discs, producing nearly 30 pounds of drag pressure — engineered specifically to stop the powerful, sustained runs of saltwater gamefish.
What are the dual counterbalances on the spool, and why do they matter?
The R Salt is an industry first in using two smaller counterbalances on the spool rather than one large counterbalance. This reduces overall spool mass while maintaining smooth, vibration-free rotation — critical when a fish is ripping line off the reel at high speed during a long run.
Is the Ross Evolution R Salt fully sealed against sand and saltwater?
Yes. The drag system is fully sealed, and all internal components are machined from stainless steel with a specialized coating designed to resist saltwater corrosion and sand intrusion — built to perform after repeated days on the flats or offshore.
What Is the Advantage of the Large Integrated Drag Knob?
The R Salt's drag knob is integrated directly into the frame and designed to be adjusted easily with the palm of your hand during a fight.
This allows anglers to make quick, meaningful drag adjustments without taking their focus off the fish. It's a feature that becomes particularly valuable when fighting tarpon, giant trevally, or other species that require constant adjustment throughout the battle.
How Does the Evolution R Salt Compare to Other Premium Saltwater Reels?
The Evolution R Salt occupies a unique position in the market because it combines extremely high drag output with surprisingly low weight.
Many reels capable of generating nearly 30 pounds of drag are substantially heavier. Ross has managed to create a reel that delivers true big-game performance while retaining the balance and fishability that made the Evolution platform so popular.
What Are the Downsides of the Ross Evolution R Salt?
The biggest downside is that the R Salt is purpose-built for demanding saltwater applications. Anglers who primarily fish freshwater or make only occasional saltwater trips will likely never take advantage of the reel's immense drag capability.
Likewise, anglers who prioritize absolute simplicity may find that some of the reel's advanced engineering and premium features exceed their needs.
Warranty
Ross Warranty Information
Ross Reels® branded fly reels purchased through an Authorized Dealer are covered by a limited lifetime warranty for as long as the product is on the market.* This limited lifetime warranty only applies to the original owner and is not transferable. This limited lifetime warranty is limited to repair or replacement of the product only, and does not cover direct, indirect, consequential, incidental or any other type of damage resulting from the use of the product. This limited lifetime warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, fire, theft, loss, discontinued products or negligence that causes damage to the product. Any intentional damage or improper or illegal misuse of the product voids the limited lifetime warranty. Discontinued products may be replaced with different models where appropriate, as determined in the sole discretion of Ross. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, which may vary from state to state. To qualify for warranty service, the original owner must return the product to Ross with a Product Service Form, or the warranty return will be refused and sent back to the customer. All shipments to Ross must be freight paid. Ross reserves the right to determine whether to repair or replace any product covered by this warranty. Ross further reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue the design of any product previously manufactured at any time with or without notice and without assuming any obligation to the consumer under the limited lifetime warranty. Discontinued products may be replaced with newer models when necessary. * Products not purchased through an Authorized Dealer are not covered under this warranty. Please return all warranty products with a completed Product Service form.
