The Timeless Elegance of the Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel: Made in England (With Pouch)
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the reel is more than just a tool—it’s a trusted companion on the water. Among the finest in the world, the Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel (Made in England, with Pouch) stands as a testament to craftsmanship, precision, and heritage. Originally designed in collaboration with legendary angler Charles F. Orvis, this reel blends classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Whether you’re chasing trout in a quiet stream or battling salmon in fast currents, the CFO II delivers unmatched performance with a touch of British engineering excellence.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
– The different types of Orvis CFO II reels
– How to choose the best one for your needs
– Our top 5 recommendations
– Key buying considerations
– FAQs to help you make an informed decision
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Types of Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reels
The Orvis CFO II series is known for its lightweight yet durable construction, featuring a click-and-pawl drag system that provides smooth, reliable performance. The main variations include:
1. CFO II Disc Drag (Modern Reissue) – A contemporary take with an improved drag system.
2. CFO II Click-and-Pawl (Vintage Models) – The original classic, prized for its simplicity and nostalgic appeal.
3. CFO II Wide Spool (For Larger Lines) – Designed for heavier fly lines, ideal for salmon or saltwater fishing.
Each model is crafted in England and comes with a premium leather or Cordura pouch for protection.
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How to Choose the Right Orvis CFO II Reel
Selecting the perfect CFO II depends on:
– Fly Line Weight – Match the reel to your rod’s line weight (e.g., 3-5wt for trout, 6-8wt for larger fish).
– Drag Preference – Click-and-pawl for simplicity, disc drag for heavier fish.
– Spool Width – Wider spools handle backing better for long runs.
– Aesthetic & Collectibility – Vintage models appeal to purists, while modern reissues offer reliability.
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Top 5 Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reels
1. Orvis CFO II Click-and-Pawl (Vintage, Made in England)
Highlights: Classic design, handcrafted in England, ultra-lightweight.
✔ Pros:
– Timeless aesthetic with a smooth, traditional drag
– Extremely lightweight (perfect for small streams)
– Comes with a premium leather pouch
✖ Cons:
– Not ideal for large, hard-fighting fish
– Vintage models may require maintenance
Best for: Traditionalists, small-stream trout anglers.
2. Orvis CFO II Disc Drag (Modern Reissue)
Highlights: Updated drag system, durable construction.
✔ Pros:
– Smoother drag for larger fish
– Retains classic CFO styling
– Reliable for both freshwater and light saltwater
✖ Cons:
– Slightly heavier than vintage models
Best for: Anglers who want classic looks with modern performance.
3. Orvis CFO II Wide Spool (For 6-8wt Lines)
Highlights: Extra backing capacity, ideal for big fish.
✔ Pros:
– Handles larger fly lines with ease
– Great for salmon or steelhead
– Still maintains CFO elegance
✖ Cons:
– Bulkier than standard models
Best for: Anglers targeting bigger fish with longer runs.
4. Orvis CFO II Limited Edition (Special Finishes)
Highlights: Unique anodized colors, collector’s item.
✔ Pros:
– Exclusive finishes (e.g., black, gold)
– High collectibility
– Same great performance
✖ Cons:
– Harder to find, often pricier
Best for: Collectors and anglers who appreciate rare gear.
5. Orvis CFO II Mid Arbor (Balanced Design)
Highlights: Faster line retrieval, smooth performance.
✔ Pros:
– Mid-arbor design reduces line memory
– Great balance between classic and modern
– Excellent for all-around fishing
✖ Cons:
– Not as lightweight as standard CFO II
Best for: Versatile anglers who fish different waters.
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Buying Considerations
– Condition (if vintage): Check for wear, smooth operation.
– Authenticity: Ensure it’s a genuine Made-in-England model.
– Pouch: Original pouches add value.
– Price: Vintage models can be expensive; modern reissues offer better affordability.
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FAQs
Q1: Is the Orvis CFO II still made in England?
A: The original vintage models were, but newer reissues may vary. Check product details.
Q2: How does the click-and-pawl drag perform?
A: It’s simple, reliable, and perfect for trout, but not ideal for heavy saltwater fish.
Q3: Can I use a CFO II for saltwater fishing?
A: Only the disc drag or wide-spool models are suitable for light saltwater use.
Q4: Are vintage CFO II reels better than modern ones?
A: They’re prized for craftsmanship, but modern reissues offer improved durability.
Q5: What’s the best line weight for a standard CFO II?
A: 3-5wt is ideal for trout; go for a wide spool for 6-8wt lines.
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Final Thoughts & Call to Action
The Orvis CFO II Fly Fishing Reel (Made in England, with Pouch) is more than just a reel—it’s a piece of angling history. Whether you prefer the vintage charm of the click-and-pawl or the modern reliability of the disc drag, there’s a CFO II for every fly fisher.
Ready to own a legend? Check out trusted dealers, vintage fly fishing forums, or Orvis’s official reissues to find your perfect CFO II. Tight lines! 🎣