It’s been a staple in the fishing world for years. A great new die-cast reel design with a stealthy matte-gray powder-coat finish, the Clearwater Large Arbor is still the best performance-to-value reel in the industry. The rod retails for $198; if you get the Clearwater reel and line with it, you’re looking at $311 for an … But performance is still solid: The medium-action rod (the rod flexes most in the center) casted beautifully over Cascade brush and Columbia Basin reeds in light to moderate wind. January 2019. hide. If you see yourself fly fishing a lot more in the future and want to go after bigger fish a 6wt Clearwater sounds like the way to go. I have heard good things about both, but the clearwater is 100 dollars more. Orvis 2019 Clearwater 905-4 Fly Rod Outfit : 9'0" 5wt. Gear Review: Orvis Clearwater Fishing Rod & Encounter II Reel. I use my 4wt (small streams and delicate dries in non-windy conditions), 6wt (swiss army knife, big dries like Hoppers and Chernobyl Ants, trout streamers, multi-hook nymph rigs, bass streamers), and 8wt (bass poppers/streamers, pike, steelhead, salmon) . For just a little bit over $200, I would recommend the Clearwater outfit , (Link to Amazon to check the price and reviews) read the which has a good fly line, an aluminum reel plus a 25-year warranty. For example, I didn’t have to get 30 feet of line out to really feel it loading. The Orvis warranty department was an absolute pleasure to deal with, offering to either repair/replace the rod for a small fee or allowing me to upgrade at a hilariously reduced price. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Messages 59 Reaction score 1. Orvis has been selling its own brand of fly lines since 1971. The site may not work properly if you don't, If you do not update your browser, we suggest you visit, Press J to jump to the feed. In addition to the Orvis Encounter above, the Sage Foundation Outfit and the Orvis Clearwater Outfit are the two most affordable bundles at their relative price points, while also being made in the USA. Then of course you will get the great orvis warranty. Is it noticeable better? I have been fly fishing for a decade or so (there are redditors who may read this and call me a noob). Clearwater Large Arbor Reel. I have been fly fishing on an encounter for a couple of years now and am finally getting to upgrade. Orvis Clearwater Big Game & Saltwater Fly Rods $364.99 Orvis Clearwater Freshwater Fly Rods $289.99 Orvis Clearwater Travel Fly Rods Starting at $299.99 Orvis Encounter Outfit Fly Rod/Reel Kit $245.99 Orvis Helios H3-D (Distance) Fly Rods Starting at $1,304.99 Orvis Helios H3F Fly Rods Starting at $1,304.99 Orvis PractiCaster $74.99 That being said, I think the Orvis Clearwater 5-weight, 8’6” Fly Rod is a fantastically built rod that is one of the strongest I have used in these past few years. The Encounter is a helluva deal, but the Clearwater package has a nicer rod, reel, and case. This thread is archived. The guy in store set me up with some so tiny I might need a magnifier just to thread them, while other streamers with huge prominent hooks. The Orvis Encounter Wader is very popular with our Beginner Fly Fishing School students and others who are looking for a great pair of quality waders but don’t have more than $170 in their budget. I'm yet to feel the difference but it the new rod feels a bit more flexible than the encounter so I guess that is better? share. One thing I didn't mention in that review was that Orvis actually sent me that rod as part of a combo paired up with their new Clearwater large arbor reel and Clearwater fly line. Clearwater and Access lines are 'entry level' and priced to be accessible to the beginning angler. My recent review of Orvis' Clearwater 9-foot 4-weight fly rod right here was overwhelmingly positive. w/line; orvis.com, © 2021 Pocket Outdoor Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. What kind of things I'm giving up for selecting a 6wt over a 5wt? Will I be able to cast further out? For $169, there’s a LOT of great features and details on this wader -features that are usually found only on waders that cost twice as much as the Encounter Wader. You can’t go wrong with a classic like the Orvis Clearwater Vest ($79). One of the Orvis guys told me that he was at Orvis HQ for a fishing meeting a couple of years ago and the guys from the field were trying out the rods. Welded construction, a tough rubber toe cap, and durable upper materials combine to provide anglers with a boot that will handle the most rugged fly fishing environments. It is just nicer to do it with a 5wt. I think the Helios 2 was new. Seriously, grab a 6-pack and pick 'View Entire Chapter' The Encounter is a helluva deal, but the Clearwater package has a nicer rod, reel, and case. Sorry for he basic questions but as I said, I'm eiger to learn and I want to make sure I dont mess up in the middle, specially when dealing with expensive equipment. Orvis. I guess I need a 9foot 6x leader to match the 6wt line or can I use others? Among the best all-round rods on the market. I didn’t go this route but it is a nice personalized touch. Jan 5, 2019 - Two combos from Orvis the Clearwater and Encounter how do they stack up against one another. Clearwater & Encounter II. They simply did a great job upgrading that rod and it was totally satisfying to fish with. I'm aware that the standard recomendation is a 5 wt thats why I felt that a 6 will at least give me some room in case of a larger catch. 2019 ORVIS CLEARWATER 103-4 FLY ROD : 10’0” 3WT. Overall, the Orvis Encounter rod is a great choice for anglers of all skill levels, but it works best for those fairly new to fly fishing. This Orvis Clearwater provides the delicacy and precision of a higher priced premium rod. Sort by. Orvis' Ultralight Wading Boots hit the market in 2017 as part of their popular Ultralight Wading System that also includes a rain shell, waders, vest and more. If my house was going to burn down and I could only grab one rod, it would be a 6wt. $311.00 Orvis Encounter 5-Weight 8'6" Fly Rod Outfit (5wt, 9'0", 4pc) Thought you’d never find an affordable rod with all the features and quality of a much more expensive series? In comparison to my Orvis Encounter (entry level set up) it wasn’t even in the same ball park but this isn't an entry level combo. Orvis Clearwater, 9-foot, 5-weight ($198) This past spring, while we were rigging up to fish Rock Creek, I asked Tom Rosenbauer of Orvis about the Clearwater series. Orvis Clearwater 5wt 9'0" Fly Rod Outfit. Furthermore, the Clearwater has the Orvis warranty. Furthermore, the Clearwater has the Orvis warranty. There is a ton of good information for beginners. I am thinking of buying a new rod and have narrowed my search to these two. Lighter weight rods will cast small flies more delicately. The cost is a bit more than the true entry-level Orvis Encounter Outfit , but the improvements to the Clearwater make the bump more than a fair trade. Jack down at the local Orvis store did a great job walking me through my options, and it came down to either the Superfine Carbon 704-4 or another Clearwater. Again, it is just nicer to do it with a 6wt. Rod (as tested, 9’, 4-piece, 5 weight): $198; 3.2 oz. Just got into fly fishing and I'm loving it. The Encounter II reel is ultralight (it’s made of a plastic composite), dirt cheap, and surprisingly bombproof. Orvis Encounter Rod Review. For the all-around bass and trout rod, the 6wt is probably a better choice. The 2019 Orvis Clearwater 905-4 Fly Rod Outfit features the new Orvis Clearwater 9'0" 5wt Fly Rod, new 2019 Orvis Clearwater II Fly Reel, and Orvis Clearwater WF floating fly line, Clearwater cordura rod tube, Orvis braided dacron backing, and Orvis tapered leader, shipped professionally rigged and ready to fish...just tie on a fly! I have taught dozen or so people to fly fish, and while they will not be able to appreciate the nuances of Sage One or Orvis Helios, people generally find it easier to learn on a nicer equipment. You also get a metal reel instead of the plastic one that comes with the encounter. They're also available for women and children as well as men and come in a massive range of shapes and sizes. 100% Upvoted. Since i have no clue about rods, reels and the nuances of the sport yet I went with the store recomendation and got an Orvis Encounter 9' 6wt. Any input from users or casters would help. Thanks for any help and suggestions you may provide. I guess they will go further due to fhe weight. The reel of this Orvis Encounter outfit is made of molded composite. The Orvis Encounter Wading Boots have all the features of a premium wading boot at an entry level price. .. The Orvis Encounter has a great medium action rod, but the line and reel are a little bit less desirable. I'm also trying to figure out what the best size and weight are for my usage. The Sage Foundation Outfit gives you a high-end rod, reel and line ready to hit the water for $550. This is a subreddit for anglers who pursue, or wish to pursue, their favorite fish on fly rods. That being said, you can still cast an size 16 fly with same accuracy with a 6wt as you can with 5wt. There are way too many choices, sizes, weights and action types Im at a loss to what do they mean to the beginer, It sort of feels like getting a car for someone that will be more than happy to just have a bike... (specially if one has no clue on how to drive a car). Does the line weight affect ghe kind of hook size I need? Generally speaking, the bigger the fly, the heavier the rod weight. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. So you could just get the clearwater rod and fish your encounter reel and line on it. Since you say you only recently bought the encounter I'd say contact their customer service and see if they will cut you a deal on an upgrade if you send the broken encounter back. Certainly, heavier rods are needed for bigger fish, but you can certainly catch big bass with a 5wt. Tip:Leave the included rod case behind, pick up a fluorescent light tube cover at the hardware store, and trim to length. Orvis Clearwater, 9-foot, 5-weight ($198)This past spring, while we were rigging up to fish Rock Creek, I asked Tom Rosenbauer of Orvis about the Clearwater series. All-in-all, the Orvis Clearwater Rod and Reel Outfit delivers quality and fishability well above its midrange price point, making the Clearwater Outfit a can’t-go-wrong combo for most fly fishers. I'm still a newb but I'm enjoying the process. It’s not in its element on large water with difficult conditions, but it will handle just about everything else. The reel is plastic and the line didn’t seem to be matched well to the rod. I don’t remember Tom’s exact words, but I do recall the gist of his answer: The Clearwater is a seriously nice rod for the money. The encounter is a great setup but i think that you will be glad that you upgraded. Is that a correct assesment? Most guys liked the Clearwater over the Helios. My Orvis Clearwater Rod and Reel Setup. You have a lot of questions. More. Jul 25, 2016 #1 These are my two choices for a 5 wt. Orvis Encounter Waders may be the cheapest in the Orvis range, but they're superb quality breathable chest waders for the money. Orvis lines can be broken down into 4 product lines: Clearwater, Access, Hydros, and Hydros HD. anyway tons to learn still but having fun in the process and keep catching trout unlike my spinning days. When it comes to the Clearwater series from Orvis, this is … Orvis also you the option to embroider your vest for $8 extra. I would like to frequent small to medium size rivers for trout but also want to make sure I can fish pods and lakes in summer for bass and pan fish without being afraid that the rod might breat if I happen to catch a large one. Rod weight does have an impact on the size of fly you cast. I don’t remember Tom’s exact words, but I do recall the gist of his answer: The Clearwater is a seriously nice rod for the money. Today, Orvis lines are made by Scientific Anglers (which is also owned by Orvis). However, when it comes to functionality, the Orvis Encounter Waders have the upper hand. In addition to my experience, I asked Kati, a fellow blogger (gettingoutdoors.net) and owner of the fly fishing guide service Rouse Fly Fishing, for her review of the Orvis Encounter, since she recently started wearing them.Here is what Kati says: “I am wearing them now. You may not notice all of these right off of the bat and may or may not gain distance on your cast and things like that. Also if you are current military or a veteran they are doing a 20% off your entire purchase for memorial day. I have a quiver. Going to be my "truck" rod. This Combo Comes With Heavier rods have more casting power and deal with environment conditions a little nicer. Are heavier lines easier to cast? The New 2019 Orvis Clearwater 3-Weight 10'0" Fly Rod is the perfect choice for euro nymph style fishing, high-sticking, mending line, and casting longer distances to deliver dry flies precisely on target. The Orvis Encounter Fly Fishing Combo (9’ 5 weight) First of all Orvis has been around for over 150 years, they are very well known in the fly fishing industry with their quality fishing gear and apparel. Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod – 4 Piece. 5 comments. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. I had the chance to fish a few different rods last weekend with my local orvis fishing manager. The Recon’s action is much smoother and angler friendly. Also, for a really comprehensive 'how-to', watch the Orvis How to Fly Fish videos. Another thing that seems unclear is the proper selection of fly sizes. A backcountry fly-fishing setup should be low in bulk and weight for easy packability, and this system delivers at a wallet-friendly price. Top to bottom, Orvis’ offerings outdo or match even the fiercest competition, and the updated Orvis Clearwater is perhaps the best example of this resurgence. You can learn the jargon of tippet strength and leader length. What kind of things I should expect when jumping from a $170 kit to a +$300 one? Orvis Clearwater Fly Combo Outfit vs Orvis Encounter Fly Outfit – Beginners Comparison. Think again. A backcountry fly-fishing setup should be low in bulk and weight for easy packability, and this system delivers at a wallet-friendly price. Whether you fly fish a 2wt on small creeks for brook trout, a 14' 9wt for Steelhead or Atlantic Salmon, or Tarpon on a 12wt; your contributions and questions will be welcomed and appreciated! My main concern is that due to my lack of experience, I might not be able to perceive the benefits of a better rod... That's why I call upon your knowledge and experience in hopes I can figure out the best course of action. Since I have an upcoming fishing trip soon, I cant wait for a repair so now I find myself in a position to either buy another encounter or use the excuse to upgrade to a clearwater. With this rod I have personally caught some really big trout that would’ve definitely broken other rods available on the … Orvis vs. redington 5wt. The clearwater will give you much more feel and be a lot more to fish. Add bubble wrap inside to minimize rattling, and save a whopping 20 ounces. If you think its a sport you're going to stick with for more than the season I don't see a reason not to upgrade. report. Looks like you're using new Reddit on an old browser. Orvis clearwater vs Echo base? The Orvis Clearwater Waders replace the Encounter waders but still retain the title of best value on the market. 4.7 out of 5 stars 72. I love the fit- not too bulky or stiff (which is the case with some wading boots). Thread starter 1spd1way; Start date Jul 25, 2016; 1. Two years in design and development and with a powerful disc drag that can hold its own with high-performance machined reels, the all new Clearwater Large Arbor cost significantly less than its machined cousins, … It features a drag adjust system that is similar to the reels of the Orvis Clearwater fly rods, which are designed to provide the best performance among its competitors. The Clearwater Waders have totally revolutionized wader fit and function. What you will notice right away is the feel of the rod when fighting fish. The class is usually offered on Saturday mornings and is free. In what way? Overall Impression. Seriously, grab a 6-pack and pick 'View Entire Chapter'. What The Pros Say. The Clearwater large arbor reel from Orvis is a die-cast aluminum large arbor that is lightweight enough to balance properly with your favorite rod. First thing, I would recommend you search through this subreddit. It was more reputable than the 6-weight Orvis Encounter I owned (see my Orvis Encounter Review here). To help with the extra cost you could take the fly fishing 101 class. So far I loved it, however my wife stepped on it while trying to get a picture and the thing broke baddly :(. 1spd1way Well-known member. They also have a deal going on where if you trade in an old rod (even like conventional rod) you get 20% off of a new rod. This means that you’ll definitely get a great-value deal with the Encounter line of products for beginners. I chose to add the 6-weight Orvis Clearwater package to my fly fishing gear. What about the leader. You can learn the jargon of tippet strength and leader length. At the end of the class you will be given a coupon for 20% off of an outfit. When I first took the Clearwater to the water, I knew I … Orvis understands what it means to offer quality products at an affordable price. ; Reel:$49; 4.7 oz. According to our Colorado tester, the reel “handles big, fat trout like a champ.” Credit its large arbor (or diameter), which ensures fewer line tangles and makes reeling in the Big One quick and easy. Best Deal Buy Local. Thank you all for your suggestions, As per your recomendations I was able to go for the clearwater and get credit for the Encounter so everything worked out. A new modern fit eliminates the age old problem of wader bulk while still allowing the … save. I can tell you that there is deffinetly a noticeable difference in fishing the encounter vs. the clearwater. In a nutshell, the COMPASS Tailwater Breathable Waders have a lot of bells and whistles compared to the Orvis Encounter Waders. But if you bought the Clearwater, you would have bragging rights, and you would just get the rod replaced. Shop Orvis.com for Clearwater fly rods, the best performance fly rod value ever offered. I break a rod every year. It's a laughably good deal at around $200 bones. 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