Orvis's starter fly fishing kit: a 4-piece rod, large-arbor reel, line, backing and leader in one box. People pick it so they can buy flies and tippet and go fish.
Specs
- Sizes: 5-wt 8'6", 5-wt 9', 6-wt 9', 6-wt 9'6", 8-wt 9'
- Rod: 4-piece
- Included: Encounter large-arbor reel, weight-forward floating fly line (Scientific Anglers, made in USA), backing, leader
- Warranty: Orvis 5-year rod guarantee (current Encounter models made 2021 and later), original owner
- Other components imported
- Price on maker site: $249, all sizes (Oct 2026)
What reviewers say
Reviewers and fly shops agree it casts better than its price suggests and is a fair choice for beginners and budget anglers alike. Outside Bozeman found it casts well with more sensitivity than expected and liked that it comes ready to fish; that review is older and quotes a lower price, $198. Forum users who were unsure at first report it loads and casts smoothly once lined. Where opinions split: some anglers say to spend more on Orvis's Clearwater for a longer warranty and a rod you won't outgrow.
Good
- Everything but flies and tippet in one purchase
- Line and reel come matched to the rod
- Casts smoothly for a starter rod
- 4-piece breakdown travels easily
- Sold in sizes from trout to bass and light saltwater
Not so good
- Shorter warranty than Orvis's higher-priced rods
- Price has gone up from what older reviews list
- Some anglers outgrow it and move to Clearwater
Who it's for
Anyone starting fly fishing who wants a balanced, ready-to-fish setup from a known brand. Skip it if you already know you'll fish a lot and want the longer warranty of a step-up rod.
Sources
Last checked 2026-10-19. Specs from the maker; review notes summarized in our own words.