This is a great combo for beginners with a light weight and a smooth reel and drag. I also use it when I am going to go into tough terrain and don’t want to risk an $800 rod getting snapped off in a tree when I am going to have to pack it in or slog through some brush to get to a stream. It would probably be fine for larger fish as well in the more fished areas, but I haven’t tried it out there yet. A great value for the money.

The Orvis Encounter setup has been on the water with me every day since I bought it. It’s a starter setup, no doubt. But I’ve been hard-pressed to upgrade because this setup is serviceable on the water. The biggest thing you’ll notice is Orvis’ durability and reliability among competing brands. While I’ve had this setup for 3.5 years, I’ve watched my fishing partners’ Reddington equivalent break....twice. And if I’m being honest, this experience with Orvis has launched me into a brand evangelist. Buy with confidence and I hope this product lasts as long for you as it has for me.

Originally from MD, then OK, I’ve always fished warm water fish with a bait caster reel. Upon moving to Colorado, I learned I was outta realm. I purchased this starter set up and have been a trout junkie ever since! The 5wt 9’ 4 is perfect for throwing small streamers to scuds and smidges. I recommend this product to anyone looking to get into fly fishing. You can’t beat the price and the quality is unreal. Although I’ve added a couple more rods to my garage since my start, I find this one to be my “go-to” rod when venturing out to waters unknown.