The Orvis Clearwater 9'/6wt/4pc has garnered substantial praise from anglers in recent months, proving itself as a reliable partner for those challenging fishing outings. Owned by a dedicated fly fisherman, this rod has shown resilience and performance across diverse environments, even when the waters have turned treacherous.
Acquired from the Ozark Angler in September 2015, the Clearwater was not an impulsive purchase. "I'm not quick to buy new gear without testing it first," said the angler, reflecting on the careful consideration that went into the investment. This thoughtful approach is evident as he recounts how a friend’s extensive collection of Orvis rods provided early insights into their quality. His first encounter with the Clearwater occurred in January 2015, which led him to experiment with it as a streamer rod for a full month.
The positive experience inspired him to make a purchase request to his wife, who humorously responded, "Which trip are you not going to take this year?" This playful remark highlights the frequent tug-of-war that fishing enthusiasts often encounter between pursuing new gear and planning outings. Despite the banter, he planned multiple trips, covering destinations from Southeast Louisiana to Missouri and Oklahoma.
When seeking a fly rod, the angler had specific requirements in mind. He desired a lightweight tool that could efficiently deliver small dry flies to grass carp as well as handle small articulated streamers on a sink tip line. "It does both very well," he remarked, emphasizing the rod’s versatility. Notably, he can fish with the Clearwater all day without feeling excessively fatigued, contrasting this with his experience using an 8wt rod, which he described as "a workout."
One of the remarkable aspects of the Clearwater is its ability to fight various fish with ease, from trout to largemouth bass and even sizeable grass carp. He was particularly impressed by its performance in less-than-ideal conditions, such as the cypress swamps of Southeast Arkansas. The angler shared an experience that encapsulates the rod’s durability.
During one fishing session, he found himself in a challenging battle with a 40-inch grass carp from his kayak. Just when he thought he could land the fish, he sank into the muddy water. "Guess what happened when I was ready to CPR the carp? It was NOT ready and ran between my legs...still hooked!" he humorously recounted, likening his attempts to evade the escaping fish to a tricky side-step maneuver reminiscent of NFL quarterback Russell Wilson.
However, despite the chaos, the Clearwater remained resilient. "I was certain I would be testing out the Orvis warranty and the customer service I've heard so many great things about," he reflected, relieved to find the rod in good condition after his tumble into the muddy waters. This incident showcases not just the rod's toughness, but also the reality of fishing adventures, especially in rugged terrains, where gear is put to the ultimate test.
With limited space in his kayak and a tendency to be hard on equipment, the angler emphasized the need for tackling tough conditions with confidence. He noted the potential hazards of fishing, mentioning, "There’s a real possibility I'm going to bang it off an overhanging tree branch, sink it in mud, or skewer a cypress tree. I need gear that can stand up to that kind of abuse." Accordingly, his experience with the Clearwater has lived up to—and indeed surpassed—his expectations.
As the angler concluded his review, he expressed unreserved satisfaction, stating, "I have zero complaints." Indeed, the Orvis Clearwater 9'/6wt/4pc seems to embody the ideal balance of performance, durability, and comfort that many anglers seek in their gear. For those interested in watching the Clearwater in action, he has shared videos on his YouTube channel, Looknfishy, showcasing the rod's capabilities in various fishing scenarios.
In addition to the Clearwater, he also recommends exploring other gear options, including the Orvis Encounter and Recon rods, highlighting his extensive experience and commitment to quality in fishing equipment. As fishing season continues, the Orvis Clearwater remains a noteworthy contender for any serious angler looking for a versatile, robust fly rod to tackle challenging waters with confidence.