In February last year, Michael Rescorle became the first person in the UK to purchase the new Helios when it launched from the Orvis Stockbridge Store. A seasoned angler born and raised in Cornwall, Michael has spent decades honing his skills on rocky coasts, riverbanks, and piers. Now based in Winchester, Hampshire, he is a Level 2 Licensed Angling Coach and an Orvis Endorsed Guide.
A year after casting the Helios for the first time, Michael shares his thoughts on how this revolutionary rod has performed in a variety of challenging fishing scenarios. From the reduced swing weight to its impressive power and finesse, Michael explores why the Helios has become a favourite in his fishing arsenal and a must-try for his clients.
“The Helios 3D 8-weight had been in my fishing armoury for a couple of years, and I was pleased with it, but when offered the chance to give the New HELIOS a cast, I jumped at it - greedily. The new rod came with some amazing statistics, but the lighter swing weight caught my attention; anything that reduces the effort required to blast out large saltwater flies all day gets my vote.
After a couple of casts, it felt like I just had a softer rod in my hands, but it was true, the swing weight was considerably less. Having used the 8 and 6-weight Helios D throughout the summer and autumn, I have come to love both outfits. Many of my clients had a cast with them, and while sceptical at first, their faces lit up as soon as the power and lightness of the rods became clear. Several purchased one as soon as they could. It is a superb rod, and I cannot wait for the new saltwater season to start and for the trip to Alaska in 2026 to chase Pacific Salmon.”
