Whether you’re looking for a versatile reel setup, a purpose-built swing reel, or a new two-handed rod, there’s something here worth checking out.
Orvis Clearwater Reel 3-Pack: More Spools, More Options
The Orvis Clearwater Reel 3-Pack might be one of the best values in fly fishing if you like having multiple lines ready to go.
The Clearwater has long been a dependable workhorse reel. It isn't trying to be flashy or overly complicated; it is simply a solid, practical reel that gets the job done. What makes this new package particularly compelling is what comes with it.
For $319, you get the Clearwater reel plus two spare spools and a carrying case. Considering that a standard Clearwater reel sells for around $200 on its own, getting two additional spools for just over $100 more makes this an exceptionally useful package.
Having spare spools can make a huge difference on the water. Instead of committing yourself to one fly line, you can have a floating line on one spool, a sinking or intermediate line on another, and perhaps a different taper or specialized line on the third. Rather than carrying several complete rod-and-reel setups, you can simply swap spools as conditions change.
For anglers who fish a variety of techniques—or simply like having options ready to go—the Clearwater 3-Pack is a tremendous amount of versatility for the money.
Orvis SSR Reel: A Classic Design for the Swing
The other new reel we've received is the Orvis SSR, part of Orvis' Spey Series of reels.
This is a very different animal from the Clearwater. The SSR has a distinctly classic aesthetic, with a fully caged frame, machined aluminum construction and disc drag. It's a substantial-looking reel without feeling unnecessarily heavy, making it particularly well suited to balancing longer two-handed rods.
That fully enclosed frame is more than just an aesthetic choice. It is particularly useful for anglers fishing mono running lines, where preventing the running line from escaping between the spool and frame can be a major advantage. The caged design helps keep everything where it belongs.
The spool is also quick and easy to remove, making line changes straightforward. The reels have a deep arbor, giving you plenty of capacity for backing as well as larger shooting heads.
And then there is the sound.
The SSR has a really satisfying mechanical click when the reel is running. It has some of that classic reel character without becoming excessively loud or ratchety.
For anglers looking for something with a traditional look and feel but modern construction and a modern disc drag, the SSR is a really interesting option.
Orvis Mission Spey Rods
Finally, we've received the new Orvis Mission Spey rods, and these are a particularly exciting addition for anyone getting into two-handed casting.
The Mission is available in both a 12-foot short Spey and a 13-foot full Spey, with models available in 6-, 7- and 8-weight configurations.
The first thing you'll notice when you pick one up is just how light they are. These are exceptionally light rods, which makes a big difference when you're spending long days casting a two-handed rod.
Action-wise, Orvis has gone with a medium-fast profile. It's an approachable action that doesn't require you to be perfectly precise with your timing to get the rod working. At the same time, there is plenty of depth to the load when you ask more from it.
That makes the Mission particularly versatile from a casting perspective.
If you're primarily interested in Scandi-style touch-and-go casting, the rod has the responsiveness and recovery to make that style of casting feel natural. But it also has enough depth in the blank to handle heavier Skagit-style heads, where you want the rod to load deeply and provide plenty of power for sustained-anchor casts and larger flies.
That versatility makes the Mission an interesting option for anglers who don't want to limit themselves to one casting style. You can fish a lighter, more delicate Scandi setup when conditions call for it, then switch over to a heavier Skagit system when you need to turn over larger flies or sink tips.
New Orvis Gear for Fall
Taken together, these three new products cover quite a bit of ground.
The Clearwater 3-Pack is all about value and versatility, giving you multiple line options without requiring multiple complete setups. The SSR is a beautifully built, classic-looking reel that is particularly well suited to two-handed rods and running lines. And the Mission Spey brings a lightweight, versatile action to a rod designed to handle everything from touch-and-go casting to heavier Skagit systems.
If you're getting your gear ready for the fall season, all three are worth a look. You can find the new Orvis gear in shop or online at Drift Outfitters.
