Orvis Clearwater Review

The Orvis Clearwater fly rod has gone through many generations over the decades. And there’s a good reason why this classic series has stuck around so long – powerful performance from a trusted brand for an unbelievable price.

I got my hands on the latest version (in a few different weights) and write this Orvis Clearwater review to check out exactly what makes this rod tick and what types of anglers may like it.

Orvis Clearwater Models and Specs

Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Review: Features

4. Alignment dots

5. Medium-fast action

6. Composite tip for models with fighting butts and two-handed rods

Orvis Clearwater Models

Orvis Clearwater

4 wt 8’6″

Orvis Clearwater

5 wt 10′

Orvis Clearwater

8 wt 9′

Orvis Clearwater

12 wt 9′

Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Review: Our Take

When I first started researching this rod the first thing that hit me was the shear amount of different models this rod has. Currently there are 20 versions that cover pretty much any fly fishing scenario.

Whether you’re using a 2 weight to fish small streams, a 12 weight for big tarpon, two handed rods for musky, or even the euro nymphing, there is an Encounter model for you. This rod is truly the workhorse from Orvis that has been designed to fit any need.

The biggest takeaway here is the versatility of this model and the implications that come with a rod that was designed not necessarily as one-size-fits-all, but more like one-design-fits-all. They clearly have many different sizes, but they all have a similar contrstruction, taper, look, and design.

Composition

The Clearwater is constructed from high quality blanks made from mid-modulus graphite. This gives the rod a medium-fast action that is the perfect choice for a design that needs sentivity for smaller rigs but can still toss big streamers.

The reel seat uses a nickel-aluminum alloy with a black finish. Most models utilize an uplocking mechanism (a few models are downlocking) with two separate screws to make sure the reel stays in place.

There’s a lot of variance on the market on whether a rod has one or two screws. From a purely practical perspective I believe this is something that should get more attention since the rods with single screws tend to come loose more often and are just plain annoying.

The rod has various grips depending on the model and the application. Smaller weights have either half wells grips or modified half wells, and the heavier weights have a full wells grip. The heavier weights also feature fighting butts with a composite tip for durability and the two hand versions feature the same compositie tip on the top section of the grip.

Performance

The primary feature of this design is the versatility and the fact that a signle design can cover just about every fly fishing situation. But as with everything fly fishing, there are tradeoffs. One of the possible downsides to a one-design-fits-all is that sometimes compromises need to be made to fit all scenarios.

The taper for a euro nymphing rod may need to be drastically different from a saltwater streamer rod. This is really felt at the extremes as some of the heavier versions could possibly benefit from a fast action while the low weights might be more preferred with a medium action. 

That being said, the medium-fast action does adequately cover the majority of fishing scenarios. And by changing the lengths, weights, and grips within the 20 different versions does provide a lot of variance for the single design.

Looks

The rod does feature a sharp and modern looking updated logo design that really fits the black chrome and white accents. The reel seat follows this theme with a black finish on the nickel aluminum. It’s a sharp look that is reserved and not flashy.

While Orvis does provide some different color options for other rods and reels, this one has a single color. And honestly I fully understand that decision.

With 20 different models currently, they would have to multiple that by the number of color options which creates a manufacturing and warehousing nightmare. It would probably add a lot of unecessary cost to a design that is meant to be economy priced.

Value

Besides versatility, the other area where this rod really shines is in the value that it provides. I mean, let’s face it – fly fishing can be an expensive sport. When a company like Orvis provides a solid rod with great features for less than $300 that’s very attractive. 

The fact that Orvis has provided a version of this rod for every application means it’s really a rod of the people. It may not feature the dialed in high performance as the more expesnive rods, but it is definitely head and shoulders above the cheaper entry level rods.

Whichever version you choose, it’s going to be a solid performing rod that will last a long time. And if for some reason it doesn’t, it comes with the standard Orvis 25 year guarantee.

Overall

I think the main point I’d like to drive home for those who have never tried fiberglass is that the experience is WAY different from modern rods. You need to understand that you’re getting into a realm with much slower action.

But once you accept that and get used to it, it’s actually a lot of fun. And if you think about it, that’s what fishing really should be. 

I would prefer to use this rod in smaller weights models on streams and ponds. But really, it could be useful if you want a laid back experience.

Orvis Clearwater Pros and Cons

Cons

! Single design and action for all applications falls short at the extremes

Overall Ranking

7 / 10

Orvis Clearwater Deals

Accessories: Reel and Fly Line

Rio Gold Premium Fly Line

Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Starter Pack

If you’ve decided to pick up the Orvis Clearwater, or found another fly rod that suits your needs, there are some bare essentials you’re going to need to get read yot hit the water. Check out some of our suggestions below:

• • Reel – You’ll need a reel that complements the rod. For this we suggest the Orvis Hydros fly reel.
  • Fly Line – For fly line we suggest Rio Gold Premium fly line.
  • Leader – When it comes to leaders, we really like RIO Fleuroflex leader. 
  • Clothing – For wading we suggest Redington Sonic PRO Waders and Korkers Wading Boots.
  • Flies – Check out this nymph collection.

Orvis Clearwater Accessories

Fly Fishing Tools Kit and Accessories Combo Kits, Fishing Quick Nail Knot Tying Tool, Hook Remover Forceps and Pliers, Stainless Steel Salmon and Trout Multiple Fishing Set Gear Tool Assortment