Gorge Fly Shop Blog: Tibor Tested

My Tibor Signature Series 9/10 reel on it's first time out on the river and we SCORED! Always a good sign when that happens. Both specimens equally beautiful.

I was like a kid in a candy store the day my new Tibor Signature Series 9/10 reel arrived, it was ridiculous, ask anyone who was in the shop that day and they will testify. Honestly I had my eye on one for quite awhile, but just couldn't pull the trigger. Finally I was able to place my order and that was the point that I couldn't sleep much for the next few days until it arrived. I guess if you've ever wanted something and had to wait and then finally got it, you'd know what I mean. After ripping open the box like it was my birthday and giving the reel the close once over (like a surgeon) I lined it up with backing and my running line and planned on fishing it as soon as I could (see photo above). A few days later I found myself shin deep the water testing the reel out and within an hour I was hooked into my first steelhead with the new reel!

Couldn't have been a better scenario as far as I'm concerned. Not just because the reel had Mojo (if a reel or rod catches a fish on the first outing - it has Mojo, no need to argue.) but because I now own one of the greatest reels ever made of all times. Don't believe me, just check out how many World Records that are now held when using Tibor reels. The number is staggering - according to their website the count is now over 900 as of 2017.

"In 2017, Tibor Reels earned 68 new world records according to the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). This brings the Tibor's World Record count to over 900 - more than any other fly fishing reel in history. IGFA Hall of Fame fisherman, Lefty Kreh, describes Tibor Reels as "the finest saltwater reels I have ever used." They are the prized possession of every fisherman who owns one. Each is capable of delivering a lifetime of virtually maintenance-free fishing enjoyment for which Tibor Reels are famous." - excerpt from Tibor's website.
When looking at their current world record standings it is difficult to even try to argue with their success. I certainly am pleased with my Tibor Signature Series 9/10 which I use mostly as a spey reel as show in the photo about but, I will also use it most definitely for saltwater applications when I get lucky enough to do so. Since that first outing, I have had a number of times to get out and get better acquainted with the reel and there have been a few other fish caught. Confirmation that the reel truly does have "MOJO"!

I love the reel color and hub color options to choose from to help personalize your reel. Of course the species engraving is a sweet addition, as well as the name plate to really make it your own. What's not to love?!

I chose to have the salmon engraving to add a nice touch. With a Tibor, I am not too concerned about reel malfunction while on the water, history shows them to be solid in saltwater and freshwater. I love the sound of the clicking of the reel when reeling in but even more so when a fish is tearing up the water trying to shake the fly. I'm not a silent reel kinda guy. I work hard to hook my fish and when I do come tight, I want anyone near me to know about it. I am all about the serenity of the situation, being stealthy to spooky fish and getting in the full on Navy Seal mode when approaching nervous fish, BUT, when it gets reel and the war is on, you better know I get excited and the world knows it.

Here are some of the features of the Signature Series reels
Features

The completely ventilated spool and frame keeps the reel cool during long, smoking runs.
Boasts a robust incoming and outgoing clicker sound.
Unique mechanical clutch system allows easy change from right to left hand retrieve.
Features Tibor’s QuickChange™ spool system which involves only a single moving part.
Innovative sealed drag system is waterproof, self-maintaining and still the strongest in the industry.
The drag system constantly applies seal pressure while in free spool so the reel will never overrun while stripping the line.
Comes equipped with our legendary silky smooth micro grain cork that is constantly lubricated. On the rare occasion that maintenance is necessary, the system can be easily disassembled, yet still remain under warranty – unlike many other sealed-drag reels on the market.
Made from solid bar stock aluminum.
Each reel is serialized for identification and protection. The serial # is located UNDER the nameplate on top of the frame next to the reel stand.
Features a personalized Nameplate engraved free.
Our Delrin Handle offers positive gripping and quick release. The Signature 11-12S & Signature 11-12 comes standard with our Gorilla Handle.
SpeedHandle™ Spool option available.
Comes with an extra thick Neoprene Case for convenient storage and transportation.
Finishes: Frost Silver, Frost Black, Satin Gold, Jet Black, Royal Blue, Crimson, Aqua & Graphite Gray
Available in 5 sizes.
Made and assembled in the U.S.A.

I could go on and on about Tibor and the reels they produce, but I think I will let the World Records do the talking. I just know, that this will not be the only Tibor I will own.