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Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit Review – Create a Lifetime Experience
Orvis never goes out of style. This family company is at a par with trends in the fly fishing business and remains top of the list of other brands in the same business. Founded by Charles F. Orvis in 1856, this enthusiastic family took on research and begun engineering and selling fishing lines in 1971. Flourishing in business has seen Orvis open 11 outlet stores and hundreds of retail stores around the world with over 300 in the USA alone due to their impeccable products.
In this Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit review, the entire package beats all in quality and is affordable. The famous Helios technology is employed in engineering this super outfit that also contains the Orvis Clearwater floating fly line, Orvis Clearwater LA II fly reel, dracon backing, Cordura rod tube and tapered leader. Clearwater is very light in weight and its line control is exceptional. The 4-piece outfit has great features that make you an advanced fly angler in no time.
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Quick Post Navigation
- Main Features of the Orvis Clearwater Fly Fishing Combo
- Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod key features
- Orvis Clearwater LA II Fly Reel key features
- Orvis Clearwater Fly Line Key features
- Other Aspects of the Orvis Clearwater Combo
- Consumer thoughts on the Orvis Clearwater Combo
- Pros – Things that shine on the Clearwater Combo!
- Cons – Things that are not so cool!
- FAQ’s – Questions about the Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit
- Final verdict – A Combo for Beginners but is it worth the Price?
Main Features of the Orvis Clearwater Fly Fishing Combo
The four-piece combo outfit consists of the Orvis Clearwater fly rod matching clearwater floating fly line and clearwater fly reel, dracon backing, Cordura rod tube and tapered leader. This Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit review will give you an overview of all its components and their features.
Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod key features
• Helios technology – Put together with carbon, the Helios technology the medium action allows accurate casting and is ideal for beginners learning the art of fly casting. 4 piece ideal for easy storage.
• Other Materials – Gunsmoke aluminum reel seat makes the fly rod light and withstands any conditions stripper guide and chrome snake guides.
• Cordura tube – The Cordura tube is long lasting with a divided interior to allow free air movement and the rod has a carry handle for easy mobility.
• 25-year warranty – Sporting till old age you are guaranteed a 25-year warranty in case of any major repairs or replacements.
Orvis Clearwater LA II Fly Reel key features
• Large arbor – Orvis Clearwater II Fly Reel has an ultra large arbor to greatly increase the retrieval rate of the reel in either direction. This is a boost, especially when fishing in salt water.
• Drag system – the reel in this outfit features a Rulon to stainless stacked disc drag system that can be continuously and variably adjusted.
Orvis Clearwater Fly Line Key features
• Environmentally fit packaging – The paper pulp spool, the newest by Orvis is made from purely recycled cardboard and high-quality craft paper. The entire thing is easily biodegradable protecting natural resources
• Orvis Line ID – you can easily identify your line because it is well printed with taper, functionality, and weight. No more guesswork.
• Braided core – the core is braided with multi-filament for out-performance in any condition whilst sporting in any waters.
• Welded loop – its welded loop is enhanced, durable and new and makes the leader quickly and easily attach. The loop allows for a better turnover.
• Tapered leader – Fully designed in Manchester Vermont, the tapered leader is of high quality and the tapers hardly wear off.
Other Aspects of the Orvis Clearwater Combo
Main Materials – The material used on the rod is aluminum and is anodized to result in a gun smoked appearance. The blank is made of green graphite and the wraps have a silver tipping.
Handles – The rod handle is grade AAA cork and reel handle is wooden and well finished to allow easy grip while fly fishing. The fineness favors your palms and prevents bruises from gracing them no matter how long you go fly fishing.
Rod Length – Long enough, the rod comes in different lengths but the 9 foot 5 weight we recommend for the best al-rounder. The reel seat made of Gun smoke anodized aluminum adds strength and anti-corrosion for those saltwater outings. . Engineering technology used is the Helios used in the more expensive Helios II range.
Drag system – the reel has a Rulon to stainless stacked disc drag system. This allows for variable yet continuous adjustment of the system. Drag system that will not let you down.
Capacity – The Clearwater Orvis reel has a capacity to hold the fly line and backing- of 20lb WF5 at 100 yards.
Weight – The fly rod weighs 3.25 ounces and the Clearwater fly reel weighs 5.5 ounces. Lightweight enough that will not fatigue you on long days fly fishing.
Consumer thoughts on the Orvis Clearwater Combo
The outfit is of high quality and comes at an affordable price which is a rare thing with similar outfits of different brands.
Its fly rod is light in weight and can withstand any conditions while sporting. It is regarded as highly durable
Casting is easy and fun because the accuracy, balance, and control are perfect and newbies can easily train and become pros in fly fishing with it.
A 25-year warranty that caters for all your major repairs and replacements is among the major highlights of this combo outfit.
Pros – Things that shine on the Clearwater Combo!
• 4 -piece set which is inclusive of a reel, line, rod, leader, and backing
• 25 – year warranty on major repairs and maintenance
• Lightweight rod
• Easy to use by beginners
• Price is affordable
• A high-quality combo outfit
Cons – Things that are not so cool!
• Good to use for beginners and intermediates only. Experts find it too slow to get distance.
FAQ’s – Questions about the Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit
Q) Does this fly rod in the combo have a fast action or a medium-fast action?
A) None of the mentioned. It has a medium action that allows you to concentrate on one technique only.
Q) What is the size of the arbor of the Orvis Clearwater reel?
A) The reel has an ultra-large arbor to increase the rate of retrieval in any direction.
Q) What is the drag system like? Is it adjustable?
A) The Rulon to stainless-stacked disc drag system is adjustable.
Q) Which color does the fly line come in?
A) This fly line is fluorescent yellow in color.
Q) How many loops are on the fly line?
A) The fly line has one welded loop.
Q) I am told that it is light- how much does it weigh?
A) Its reel weighs 5.5 ounces and its rod weighs 3.25 ounces.
Q) Being an expert angler I would like to try it for speed. Is it as good?
A) This combo is perfect for amateurs and intermediate anglers it will be slower considering your level of expertise.
Q) How long will the warranty cover the combo?
A) There is a 25 warranty to cater for any repairs, servicing and replacement.
Q) What is the length of the rod?
A) The rod measures 9 feet long.
Q) What material is used to make the reel handle?
A) Wood is used to make the reel handle and it is well finished and gentle on your hands no matter the duration you take fly fishing.
Q) Is the fly line a floating or sinking fly line?
A) This one is a weight-forward floating fly line.
Q) Does the Cordura tube have subsections or it is a just a whole?
A) The interior of the Cordura tube is subdivided into sections to allow for air circulation and extra protection.
Final verdict – A Combo for Beginners but is it worth the Price?
Have you been meaning to go fly fishing? Superb! This Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit review will leave you wanting to check it out. Newbies anxiety gets drowned once they have an experience with this combo package. The four-piece outfit comes as a whole subsidizing on cost if you were to purchase each piece singularly. This translates to the affordability of this high-quality outfit which is a feature of the Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit that you will love for life.
Forget your fears in case your favorite fishing gear store has run out of stock of this exact outfit. Among other packages in the same price range as Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit is the Orvis Clearwater 9ft 6 weight 4pc Fly Rod Outfit. Its features are incredibly amazing and work just like the one in this review. Check out our page on the best fly fishing combos for more info.
Breaking the bank to have major repairs or replacements attended to is history when you invest in this combo outfit. The 25-year warranty fully caters for your misfortunes and lets you have great fun at the shores with your buddies new to fly fishing.
Beginners can use this combo outfit since they are new to the sport and need a simpler yet interesting kit to play with. Its simplicity is a plus since newbies don’t need complicated items and the medium action allows for easy accurate casting. Take them out and let them have a moment with this Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit. Trust me they will love it.
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About Author
I’ve been using the Orvis Clearwater Fly Fishing Combo for a while. What would you recommend at the first upgrade to the kit? Maybe a better fly line? Most of my fishing is for still water trout.
Hey Brian, a new fly line would be the best way to improve the combo as the rod and reel are sound enough for Stillwater fly fishing. It depends on do you want presentation or distance on the upgrade.
For getting the line out to fish from the banking the Hydros Easy Mend would be a good option and also the same brand. The Airflo River and Stream also gets the fly out there.
If its presentation you need for dry fly or buzzer fishing then the River and Stream is also a good option or the Cortland 444SL Just check our list and see which specs you are after and choose the line that best suits.
As mentioned in the post there is no line that does all but you may get one that will do a few options.
You sold me when you said that the Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit is lightweight. That’s important, because my Dad is getting older now, and he’s been having some troubles, so I want to make sure it’s light and has good line control, and this seems to have both. If I’m getting him something, it had better be top of the line. He’s very particular about his fishing equipment, lol, so I don’t want to ruffle his feathers. Thank you so much for such great info. You’ve helped me get his present done! Yes!!!
Its a great outfit and I’m sure your dad will be happy with it I know I would. It is lightweight and should be easy for him to handle. Tight Lines.
This looks like an awesome fly fishing rod! I am new to the sport, so I like that it is a good rod for beginners. I don’t think the criticism of being too slow will apply to me. LOL. Thank you for writing such a thorough review!
Do you think this type of rod would make a good gift? Or is this type of thing too specific to people’s preferences to surprise them with it?
Holly I know I would be happy to receive such a gift as a new Clearwater combo. In fact any fly angler would be happy and the combo is well made and robust. So go ahead and get the person in your life the gift of a new fly rod combo without fear.
I’m planning a trip to go fly fishing in Brazil with my sisters, so I think it’s a good idea to pick up some new equipment to take on my trip. This is a great option for the average fly fisher and the price is really good, too! I’m going to do a bit more research before I go ahead and get this, but I think it’s the best option.
Its a brill outfit and with the extra warranty is a good purchase for someone starting out if you have the budget. We have a list of other combo fly fishing setups if you are not totally convinced on this one.
Chris,
This is just in time for myself my grandson is getting into fly fishing more than regular fishing and I need to get more education with the fly fishing gear and how to work a fly pole.
Can you recommend a good pole for him because he will be turning 12 in January and this past year has been using one of his grandfather’s fly poles but it is very outdated wanted to get him a new one possible Christmas present.
Anything that you could give me some advise on would be greatly appreciated.
Susan
Susan you have just been reading about the Orvis Clearwater combo kit which is one of the best fly fishing setups out there in that price range. As a newbie a setup like that will give him rod, reel and line already setup balanced and ready for fly fishing. He will not be disappointed I can promise you.
At the age of 12 I would suggest no bigger than the 9ft, 5 weight as he may not be able to handle anything bigger.
I like how this is perfect for beginners. Like I said before in another post, I have been fishing before but it was years ago and it was not flying fishing. This sounds like something I should do soon. Thanks for the cool review, I will make sure to check it out on Amazon.
Hey Andrea its a great setup, liked by many anglers and guides on the fly fishing scene. If you decide to take up the sport this would be a good place to start if you have the budget. We have a list of other fly combos which are a bit cheaper if you are wanting to test the water before fully committing to quality tackle.
Your article has interested me somewhat due to the fact that you seem to highlight that this rod would be a good starting point for newbies.
I am not what you’d call a newbie – but I’m still pretty green. My son however is new to this, and I was wondering if this rod would be a good fit for him (he’s just turned 13)?
Also, do you know of any simple video tutorials or YouTube channels that he could take a look at? As I said, I’m still pretty green with this so I don’t consider myself the best teacher in the world!
Look forward to your response,
Chris.
Hey Chris there are loads of videos on youtube and vimeo the only problem is there isn’t really a dedicated channel for tuition. I have done a series on casting here on the website and there are loads of videos attached to those. Im sure enough to get you started.
I absolutely love your review. You provided an excellent post that was honest and easy to understand. I don’t fish a whole lot, but I’ve always enjoyed doing it with my family members. My father would take me to the lake all the time when I was a child. You brought back some lovely memories. I am going to start fishing more. I’m glad you posted this helpful review.
Hey Angelina, good to hear you are going to get out fishing more. The Orvis Clearwater Combo is a good setup and one I’m sure you will be happy with.
You stated this is good for beginners, is that the same for those of us who have never gone fly fishing?
I normally only fish for bass or catfish. I have never been fly fishing, so, i have no experience at all with fly fishing.
Would this fly rod combo help me other then making it easy to get all pieces at one time. Like maybe come with a few tips on casting or something of that nature?
The rod only comes with the gear to get into the art of fly casting and fly fishing you will need to get some fly casting practice. I have many posts on this and there are loads of videos on youtube and vimeo however there is nothing better than hiring a guide to take you for a few lessons to give you the basics. It will save you a lot of frustrations.
My brother had an Orvis and I always used to borrow it! Something like this would suit me well. Except we kind of grew out of it, it was a bit short.
This rod though sounds nice (especially since it’s 9 foot 5) and for beginners and intermediates too. I’d say I’m around that, no expert here!
Before I make any buying decision though, what other rods would you recommend? How important do you think rod length is? Cheers
Check out this post and the list here for more information. Its really a question as to which type of fly fishing you intend to do and what size the rivers are or species targeted. I have went for 9ft 5 weights as they seem to be a nice middle of the road rod which will cover many variations.
However if say you intend to fish for tarpon in the flats I would say a 10ft 9 weight would be a better fit as those fish are powerful and need more meat in the rod to bring them in. Or say you want to do more nymph fishing then maybe a 10 or 11ft 3 weight would be better as you need more reach and a sensitive tip to feel the takes.
As you can see there are many rods and types of fly fishing so you need to think about that first before purchasing. However if you are just looking to have some fun now and a gain then the Orvis Clearwater Combo is ideal.
I love fly fishing. It is the ultimate sport of relaxation a competition between you and the fish. Buying a rod and reel are big time investment and this looks like something I will have to think about.
As this combo is quiet expensive for a newbie do you have any other combo kit ideas that are not so pricey as I don’t want to spend a fortune to find out I’m not really a good fly caster?
Hey Jordan I know what you mean starting out on a small budget means you are not able to go for the top fly fishing gear but that does not mean the gear you can afford is terribly bad.
We have composed a list of fly fishing combos divided into three categories so there are options for every budget.
The lower the price the less quality the combo will have but it will still function as a fly fishing set and get you fishing which is the name of the game anyway. Once, “hooked”, pardon the pun you can upgrade your gear as and when budgets allow.
This combo kit looks great and it can be the ideal package for a beginner or intermediate fly fisher!! Due to its Helios technology, Cordura tube, light materials and mobility, this piece is great for EVERYONE!!
The cork and wood handle is also pretty comfortable and easy to use while providing a satisfactory grip style.
Hey Tyler I agree it’s a great combo. It may be a bit pricey for some of the beginners out there but I feel it’s worth every penny. Covers many situations and will last you many years. There are other combo kits on our list but the Orvis Clearwater fly combo is very well thought out and perfectly balanced and matched.