Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel
Kerry Willcox The Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel is a classic, lightweight fly reel known for its simplicity, durability, and elegant design. Originally introduced in the 1970s, the CFO (Close-Faced Fly Reel) series was developed in collaboration with Hardy Brothers, a legendary British reel manufacturer. The CFO II is a mid-arbor version, offering a balance between traditional aesthetics and modern functionality.
Key Features:
– Design: Compact, lightweight, and machined from bar-stock aluminum for strength and corrosion resistance.
– Drag System: Simple click-and-pawl drag (non-disc drag), providing smooth, reliable resistance for small to medium-sized trout and freshwater species.
– Arbor Size: Mid-arbor design for improved line retrieval compared to the original CFO.
– Capacity: Designed for 3鈥? weight fly lines, making it ideal for small streams and delicate presentations.
– Finish: Available in a classic satin silver or black anodized finish.
– Made in England: Earlier models were manufactured by Hardy, while later versions were produced under Orvis鈥檚 specifications.
Pros:
鉁旓笍 Timeless, elegant design 鈥?a favorite among traditionalists.
鉁旓笍 Lightweight 鈥?balances well with lighter rods.
鉁旓笍 Durable construction 鈥?built to last with high-quality materials.
鉁旓笍 Smooth, simple drag 鈥?reliable for trout fishing.
Cons:
鉂?Limited drag power 鈥?not ideal for large, hard-fighting fish.
鉂?No sealed drag 鈥?requires occasional maintenance.
鉂?Smaller capacity 鈥?best suited for lighter lines.
Best Uses:
– Small to medium trout streams
– Dry fly and light nymph fishing
– Anglers who appreciate classic, minimalist reels
Current Availability:
The CFO II has been discontinued by Orvis, but it remains highly sought after on the used market (eBay, fly fishing forums, etc.). Orvis has since released updated versions like the CFO Disc, which includes a modern disc drag system.
Alternatives:
– Orvis Battenkill Click & Pawl (similar classic design)
– Hardy Featherweight (another traditional click-pawl reel)
– Ross Colorado LT (lightweight, modern click-pawl reel)
If you’re looking for a vintage CFO II, prices can range from $150鈥?400 depending on condition. For a modern equivalent, the CFO Disc (around $399) is a great option with upgraded drag performance.
Would you like help finding a specific model or comparing it to another reel?
Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel: The Ultimate Guide for Anglers
1. Introduction: Why the Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel Matters
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the reel is more than just a tool鈥攊t鈥檚 the heart of your setup. The Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel stands out as a timeless classic, blending elegance with high-performance engineering. Originally designed in the 1970s, this reel has been reimagined for modern anglers, offering precision, durability, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re chasing trout in mountain streams or battling saltwater species, the CFO II delivers reliability when it matters most.
In this guide, we鈥檒l explore the different types of CFO II reels, how to choose the best one for your needs, our top recommendations, and key buying considerations.
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2. Types of Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reels
The Orvis CFO II comes in several variations, each tailored to different fishing conditions:
– CFO II Disc Drag (Standard Model) 鈥?A versatile choice for freshwater fishing with a smooth drag system.
– CFO II Click & Pawl 鈥?A lightweight, traditional option favored for small-stream fishing.
– CFO III (Larger Arbor) 鈥?Designed for bigger fish and saltwater applications.
Each type caters to specific fishing styles, so understanding their differences is key to making the right choice.
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3. How to Choose the Best Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel
Selecting the right CFO II depends on:
鉁?Fishing Environment 鈥?Freshwater vs. saltwater, small streams vs. large rivers.
鉁?Fish Species 鈥?Trout, bass, or saltwater gamefish require different drag systems.
鉁?Reel Size & Weight 鈥?Lighter reels (Click & Pawl) for finesse fishing; heavier models (Disc Drag) for power.
鉁?Budget 鈥?While CFO II reels are premium, some models are more affordable than others.
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4. Top 5 Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reels
1. Orvis CFO II Disc Drag (Standard Model)
馃敼 Highlights: Smooth drag, durable construction, classic design.
鉁?Pros:
– Reliable disc drag for fighting strong fish.
– Lightweight yet sturdy machined aluminum.
– Timeless aesthetic appeal.
鉁?Cons:
– Higher price point than entry-level reels.
– Not ideal for heavy saltwater use.
馃帲 Best For: Freshwater anglers targeting trout and bass.
2. Orvis CFO II Click & Pawl
馃敼 Highlights: Ultra-lightweight, traditional mechanism, silent operation.
鉁?Pros:
– Perfect for small-stream fly fishing.
– Simple, maintenance-free design.
– Elegant vintage look.
鉁?Cons:
– Limited drag power for larger fish.
– Not suitable for windy conditions.
馃帲 Best For: Purists who enjoy classic fly fishing.
3. Orvis CFO III (Large Arbor)
馃敼 Highlights: Increased line capacity, stronger drag, saltwater-ready.
鉁?Pros:
– Handles bigger fish with ease.
– Faster line retrieval.
– Corrosion-resistant materials.
鉁?Cons:
– Bulkier than standard CFO II models.
– Higher cost.
馃帲 Best For: Anglers targeting steelhead, salmon, or light saltwater species.
(Continue with two more top picks, following the same format.)
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5. Buying Considerations for Orvis CFO II Reels
Before purchasing, keep these factors in mind:
馃敼 Drag System 鈥?Disc drag for power, click & pawl for simplicity.
馃敼 Material 鈥?Machined aluminum for durability.
馃敼 Size & Weight 鈥?Match your rod balance.
馃敼 Warranty & Support 鈥?Orvis offers excellent customer service.
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6. FAQ: Common Questions About Orvis CFO II Reels
Q1: Is the CFO II suitable for saltwater fishing?
A: The standard CFO II is best for freshwater, but the CFO III (large arbor) can handle light saltwater use.
Q2: What鈥檚 the difference between disc drag and click & pawl?
A: Disc drag provides adjustable resistance, while click & pawl offers a simpler, traditional mechanism.
(Include 3 more FAQs.)
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7. Conclusion & Call to Action
The Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel is a masterpiece of design and functionality, perfect for anglers who value tradition and performance. Whether you prefer the Disc Drag for versatility or the Click & Pawl for classic simplicity, there鈥檚 a CFO II for every fishing style.
Ready to upgrade your fly reel? Shop the Orvis CFO II collection today and experience the legacy of one of fly fishing鈥檚 most iconic reels!
馃帲 Tight lines and happy fishing! 馃帲
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