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Anybody have any experience with the Orvis Clearwater reels? I'm considering one for an old (new to me) Fenwick glass rod. The price is certainly reasonable and I was wondering about things like; tolerances, smoothness of drag, line capacity and all the other stuff we seem to busy our minds with. Help if you can.
Thanks a Ton,
How about the Bass Pro Shops Hobb's Creek large arbor. Same question as the Orvis Clearwater.
Joe,
Take a good look at one of these:
http://www.troutlet.com/Martin-Mount...eels-P194.aspx
http://www.fieldandstream.com/fields...784691,00.html
Martin Mountain Brook Large Arbor. Very nice reel, not too bulky and very well made. For the price you cannot beat them. Even has a decent drag system. I have the 5/6 weight. Love it.
nighthawk,
Thanks for the lead. I'll take a serious look. It might just balance an old glass rod just right.
I have an Orvis Clearwater reel that I have on my 4 wt that I mainly use for crappies, bluegills and the like. It has always given me dependable, reliable service and the finish seems to be pretty durable as I've had it for a few years and it still looks good. It's also nice and light and balances my little rod well.
I have the Hobbs Creek in two sizes and I have found it to be a perfect reel, very smooth drag. Plenty of capacity for backing and line. The price could not be better. John
I have 2 Clearwater reels...a II which I use for 3/4 wts and a III which I use for 5 wt. I have never had a problem with either and consider them a great value for the $$$$$..and extra spools are relatively inexpensive.
I've had one since '95-'96 and like it. It is the no longer made click and pawl version. I was a bit concerned that it had plastic gears and pawl and expected it to wear out quickly, but I still fish it and like it. It is durable and simple, which is all that is needed for a trout reel. I don't have any experience with the newer version with a drag, but assume that it is okay, other than having a drag that is not necessary.
Clearwaters are OK, but go to ebay and get a Medalist that matches the rod's vintage.