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Orvis is one of my favorite fly rod brands. Their rods are durable, high-quality, and quite beautiful. They’re truly premium fly rods at a very affordable price.
We went out and tested Orvis fly rods to determine which are the best. Our tests involved casting ease, fighting ability, comfort, value, weight, and more.
That said, here are the best Orvis fly rods of 2024.
Orvis Clearwater – Best Value
Orvis Helios 3D – Best Saltwater Fly Rod
Orvis Recon – Best Trout Fly Rod
Orvis Mission – Best Spey Fly Rod
Orvis Superfine Glass – Best Precision Casting Fly Rod
1) Orvis Clearwater – Best Value
Specifications:
Line Weight: 3 – 12
Length: 6 – 12ft
Action: Medium-Fast
Color: Black
Warranty: 25-Year Guarantee
Country Of Manufacture: USA
Price: Starts at $249
View Entire Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit (rod + reel + line) On Amazon
Best Use Cases:
Big freshwater bass
Saltwater species like bonefish and stripers
Versatile environments, from tropical to brackish waters
Traveling anglers needing a robust yet affordable option
Target Species:
Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass
Bonefish
Striped Bass
False Albacore
The Clearwater 8-Weight 9′ Fly Rod is my favorite size, especially the two-handed version.
The Clearwater is tailor-made for big game fishing, seamlessly transitioning from freshwater bass to saltwater bonefish.
The rod’s design, featuring black chrome blanks and white accents, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also robust, making it a reliable choice for traveling anglers.
During our Uncharted Wilds tests, the Clearwater demonstrated impressive versatility and strength. From battling brisk winds to casting heavy flies, the rod performed exceptionally.
Its quick rod identifier and chrome snake guides enhance usability, making it a user-friendly option for anglers at any skill level.
The Clearwater excels in various fishing scenarios, particularly when targeting larger fish. Its construction, including a fighting butt for durability, is designed to withstand even the toughest of fights. However, its slightly heavier build compared to premium models might be a drawback for some.
Overall, the Orvis Clearwater offers remarkable value for money, priced at $249.
It’s our take on the best fly rod Orvis offers – providing exceptional value and an easy platform for everyone, from beginners to the most seasoned anglers.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Exceptional value for money
Versatile for various fishing conditions
Solid build and attractive design
Cons:
Slightly heavier compared to high-end models
2) Orvis Helios 3D – Best Saltwater Fly Rod
Specifications:
Length: 9 – 10ft
Line Weight: 4 – 12
Action: Fast
Sections: 4
Warranty: 25-Year Guarantee
Country Of Manufacture: USA
Price: $998
Best Use Cases:
Saltwater flats and coastal areas
Long-distance casting in windy conditions
Precision casting for predatory fish
Big rivers where power and accuracy are needed
Target Species:
Bonefish
Tarpon
Permit
Snook
Larger Bass varieties
Orvis’ Helios 3D fly rod – what a brute! This Orvis fly rod is exactly what you need for saltwater fishing, boasting precision and power.
Orvis designed the Helios rod to deliver accurate casts even in challenging conditions, like gusty winds. It’s constructed with a matte midnight blank and anodized aluminum reel seat, emphasizing durability and style.
When I tested the Helios 3D, it was nothing short of impressive. The rod’s ability to handle long-distance casting and its accuracy in fly placement make it a top choice for saltwater enthusiasts.
However, you’ll need to dig a little deeper in your wallet if you want to call the 3D your own – costing $998.
Despite its premium price tag, I can honestly tell you that this is the best rod alongside the Sage Maverick (featured in our review for 10 best fly rods of 2024) for saltwater fishing.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Unparalleled accuracy
Strong and durable build
Excellent for long casts
Cons:
Premium price point
3) Orvis Recon – Best Trout Fly Rod
Specifications:
Length: 7’6″ – 10ft
Line Weight: 2 – 12
Action: Fast
Sections: 4
Warranty: 25-Year Guarantee
Country Of Manufacture: USA
Price: $598
Best Use Cases:
Small to medium-sized streams and rivers
Trout fishing in diverse environments
Anglers who need a balance of close-in loading and longer reach
Situations requiring a blend of feel, lightness, and accuracy
Target Species:
Various Trout species (Rainbow, Brown, Brook)
Smaller Freshwater Species
Panfish
Light Bass fishing
The Orvis Recon is a versatile rod that emerges as a mid-priced champion, balancing performance with affordability.
With its Helios 3 construction, the Recon provides a lightweight feel and impressive accuracy. Its matte olive finish with charcoal and green accents adds to its aesthetic appeal.
Testing the Recon revealed how well Orvis actually designed this rod. Whether navigating small streams or casting across larger rivers, the Recon handled each situation with ease.
Its pewter-type III anodized aluminum reel seat and silver snake guides contribute to its durability and user-friendliness.
Honestly, it’s one of my favorite rods for fighting trout. Yes, it’s not as durable as its older Helios brother, but boy, the rod makes it feel as if you’re fighting a trophy fish. And that’s all we want – a good fight from a beautiful fish!
Overall, the Orvis Recon shines in trout fishing, particularly for intermediate anglers and those who frequent diverse environments. Its ability to handle different fishing conditions, combined with a price point of $598, makes it an attractive option for those serious about trout!
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Excellent value
Versatile for different trout fishing scenarios
Light and accurate
Cons:
Slightly less powerful compared to high-end models
4) Orvis Mission – Best Spey Fly Rod
Specifications:
Length: 11’4 – 15ft
Line Weight: 3– 10
Action: Medium-Fast to Fast
Sections: 4
Warranty: 25-Year Guarantee
Country Of Manufacture: USA
Price: $798
Best Use Cases:
Salmon and steelhead fishing in large rivers
Casting hefty flies over long distances
Skagit and Scandi casting styles
Anglers needing a rod for both big and small water environments
Target Species:
Salmon
Steelhead
Large Trout species
Other large freshwater species in wide, open rivers
Orvis’ Mission Fly Rod collection is a game-changer for two-handed anglers. Similar to the Recon, the Mission fly rod borrows from the Helios 3 design, so you know they are built for versatility and efficiency.
The matte olive finish with orange accents and composite cork on grip areas enhance both its look and durability.
During my salmon fishing tests, the Mission rod proved its mettle. Its capacity for handling heavier flies and achieving long-distance casts with the longer rods was remarkable.
The rod’s lightweight yet powerful build makes it suitable for extended fishing sessions without compromising on performance. Its engineering ensures efficient casting, vibration dampening, and excellent fly line control.
This rod is particularly suited for experienced anglers who enjoy the spey casting method – a form of the roll fly casting technique. Additionally, it’s great for targeting salmon and steelhead in large rivers.
Its design allows for both large and small fly presentations, offering flexibility in various fishing situations. Priced at $798, it is a nice rod for serious anglers.
Overall, the Orvis Mission is an exceptional Spey fly rod, catering to the needs of two-handed anglers seeking efficiency and versatility. Its build quality and performance make it a top choice in its category.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Excellent for long and precise casts
Durable and comfortable for extended use
Versatile for different two-handed casting styles
Cons:
Requires skill to fully utilize its capabilities
5) Orvis Superfine Glass – Best Precision Casting Fly Rod
Specifications:
Length: 6’6″ – 8’8″
Line Weight: 2 – 12
Action: Slow to Moderate
Sections: 4
Warranty: 25-Year Guarantee
Country Of Manufacture: USA
Price: $549
Best Use Cases:
Delicate presentations in tranquil, clear streams
Small to medium-sized creeks and ponds
Dry fly fishing requiring smooth, slow casting
Anglers who enjoy a traditional, tactile fly fishing experience
Target Species:
Small to medium-sized Trout
Panfish
Smallmouth Bass in quieter settings
Other small freshwater species that require precise casting
The Superfine Glass series from Orvis is a shorter rod that brings up nostalgic memories for all those who had dads teach them the ins and outs of fly fishing; well, at least for me.
Its S-2 fiberglass construction provides a smooth, deliberate action, perfect for precision casting. The matte olive blank and hardwood reel seat give it a classic, sophisticated look.
My experience with the Superfine Glass was truly enjoyable, especially in tranquil stream settings. The rod excels in delivering accurate, delicate presentations, ideal for targeting smaller species.
Its slower action and tactile feel offer a refreshing change from more aggressive, fast-action rods.
This rod is best suited for anglers who appreciate the finesse of fly fishing. It’s perfect for scenarios that require careful, precise casts, such as in smaller streams or when targeting skittish fish. The price of $549 reflects its specialized nature.
In summary, the Orvis Superfine Glass is a superb choice for those seeking a rod with a traditional feel and precise casting capabilities. Its design and performance are geared towards a specific, yet deeply satisfying fly fishing experience.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Exceptional for precision casting
Unique feel of fiberglass
Beautiful, classic design
Cons:
Limited to specific fishing scenarios
In Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2024 lineup of Orvis fly rods offer a diverse range of options catering to different angling needs, from the versatile Clearwater to the precision-oriented Superfine Glass. Each rod combines Orvis’ commitment to quality, durability, and design, ensuring that anglers can find a rod perfectly suited to their style and target species.
The 25-year warranty across all models underscores Orvis’ confidence in their craftsmanship and dedication to customer satisfaction. Ultimately, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Orvis’ 2024 collection promises a superior fishing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation.
