Orvis Clearwater Large Arbor Fly Reel

The gold standard for value-driven performance on the water just got better. The Orvis Clearwater Large Arbor Fly Reel features a sleek, modernized design, enhanced drag performance, and updated finishes—including the highly anticipated new Black colorway for 2026. Long trusted as the primary teaching tool in Orvis fly fishing schools nationwide, this reel is legendary for its bulletproof reliability, smooth operation, and exceptional affordability.

Engineered with a rugged die-cast frame and a durable powder-coat finish, the Clearwater is built to withstand the bumps and scrapes of hard river use. At its core is a sealed Carbon®-to-stainless stacked disc drag system that rivals the fish-stopping power of high-end machined reels. Complete with a positive-click drag knob for micro-adjustments and a leader-friendly radiused reel foot, this reel delivers premium, tournament-grade features without the premium price tag.

Key Performance Features

• Sealed Drag System: Premium Carbon-to-stainless stacked disc drag delivers smooth, powerful inertia stopping power while sealing out water, sand, and grit.

• Large Arbor Design: Promotes rapid line retrieval rates and significantly reduces line memory, ensuring cleaner loops and better casts.

• Kink-Free Storage: Features a radiused reel foot that eliminates harsh angles, allowing you to wrap and store leaders safely without risking kinks.

• Ambidextrous Retrieval: Easily converts between left- and right-hand retrieve with a simple internal adjustment.

• Durable Protection: High-grade die-cast aluminum construction coated in a heavy-duty powder finish to resist scratching and corrosion.

Model Sizing & Specifications

Choose the ideal Clearwater model to match your fly rod weight and target species:

• Clearwater II (3–5 wt.): Weighs 5.6 oz. | 3.4" Diameter. The ultimate choice for small-stream trout rods, dry fly presentations, and light panfish action.

• Clearwater III (5–7 wt.): Weighs 6.2 oz. | 3.7" Diameter. The ultimate "do-it-all" size for big river trout, indicator nymphing, and chasing river smallmouth bass.

• Clearwater IV (7–9 wt.): Weighs 6.7 oz. | 4.0" Diameter. Built with extra line capacity and stopping power for heavy streamer fishing, largemouth bass, and light saltwater applications.

Please Note: Fly line and backing are not included with this bare reel.

Looking for a fully rigged, spool-and-go setup? Check out our ready-to-fish Orvis Clearwater Reel Combo to get this exact reel pre-loaded with premium line and backing!