Orvis Recon Freshwater Fly Rod
Pickup available at Fly Fishing Outfitters
Usually ready in 24 hours
The new third-generation Orvis Recon continues its reputation as one of the best performance rods in the mid-price category. Built off Helios-inspired tapers (not just a hand-me-down blank), the Recon is fast, powerful, and noticeably more refined than previous versions. Freshwater and saltwater models share the same price point, with a wide spread of weights and lengths — from 3-wt creek rods up to 11-wt GT and salt sticks — all at $1299.95. The salt models come in a matte blue finish, the freshwater in matte olive, and both feel modern, durable and capable.
On the water, the Recon has plenty of punch for wind, weighted flies and distance, while still offering a softer tip for accuracy and pleasant casting. It’s heavier than Helios, but not in a way that affects swing weight or fishability. Add Orvis’ 25-year no-questions-asked warranty and you’ve got a genuinely premium-feeling rod that doesn’t demand flagship money.
In short: a versatile, technique-driven workhorse for anglers who want high-end performance without the $2000+ price tag.
If chasing trout is your thing, the Recon is right in its wheelhouse. It’s the sort of rod you can throw in the back of the ute, strap to a pack or carry all day without a second thought — yet still trust when it’s time to make a precise cast under pressure.
The blank delivers excellent hoop strength for lifting power, tracks cleanly for accurate longer casts, and loads smoothly up close for technical dry-fly work. Whether you’re flicking dries into tight headwater pockets, nymphing deeper runs, or stretching out a cast across open water, the Recon handles it all with ease.
It’s built to adapt — no unnecessary flair, no gimmicks. Just a well-balanced, hard-wearing trout rod that does exactly what it should, every time you pick it up.
Made in the USA and backed by Orvis’ legendary 25-year guarantee, the 2026 Recon is a proper go-anywhere trout rod for fishos who care more about time on the water than shiny marketing.
- The rugged, go-anywhere performance rod for all freshwater fishing applications
- Incredible durability that doesn’t compromise castability
- Black type III anodized aluminum reel seat hardware with hardwood insert
- Chrome snake guides and stripping guide with SiC insert
- Matte olive blank with honey accents
- Nylon-covered rod tube
- 25-Year Guarantee
- Made in USA
