The TFO, BVK has been in competition with the best 8 weight rods in the global market since its inception. In strict and unbiased reviews such as the Yellowstone Angler Shootout Series it has strongly held a top ranking in performance against the evolving fast action 8 weight fly rod brands such as Scott, G.Loomis, Sage, Orvis, Hardy, and St. Croix.

We’ve followed the Yellowstone Angers Shootouts for years and we looked at them as one resource when selecting rod blanks for our shop. We picked the BVK for our line up primarily because of the opportunity it presented to a rod maker; High performance, low craftsmanship, and a fair price. Let us point out a few facts from this year’s shootout that will demonstrate why a CUSTOM made BVK is one of the best rods anyone could own.

First the Results from the Yellowstone Angler 8 Weight Shootout 2016:

• The BVK scored a 7 in craftsmanship and still tied others for 4th place. Had it been built flawlessly it would have earned a total score of 158, equal to that of the 2nd place winner- The G.Loomis NRX.

• Performance at distances of 35 and 60 feet are what we call “real life distances”. The actual distance casted to the shore from a drift boat or casted at a tailing redfish in shallow water. At these distances the BVK scored a 19 and 19.5 respectively. Right up there with the 3rd place winner.

• Performance at distances of 80 and 100 feet don’t drop off like the Orvis rods, or the Sage Salt. It retains it’s near perfect performance at any distance. We call these longer distances “hero casts” but sometime we need them.

• Overall weight when it comes to casting an 8 weight rod all day, or all day for multiple days, is an important factor. The BVK scored a 10 in this category.

• The BVK also scored a 10 in the warranty category, which is an important factor for our customers who are concerned about the warranty on a custom rod. Yes! It’s the same deal!

• Again, a custom BVK would rank as tied for 2nd place but for half the price! Important when ordering more than one, and in different weights.

Other worthy notes from the Yellowstone Angler Shootout 2016 article:

• In the 2011 8-Weight Shootout the BVK finished 2nd

• The 60 foot distance is the “sweet spot” for this rod, 80 ft. “impressive”, and 100 ft. “with ease”.

• The worst feature on the TFO made BVK are the reel seats. (We’ve got that covered)

Our Preference: We include the BVK in our lineup of personal rods that we use in fresh and saltwater fishing. This consistent high performer in a 6, 7, or 8 weight makes an excellent sight casting tool from a boat or if wade fishing. Double hauling, fast line speed, and bigger than average flies are no problem. This is probably the best all-around rod blank we’ve experienced, and built to our standards it could be the best rod you own for a lot less than others inferior to it.