Need info on Orvis "kit"

Post by **john elder** » Sun Sep 24, 2006 9:15 pm

I ran across an apparent Orvis fishing kit...had an Orvis 50A plus spare spool; also a fly reel...couldn't see the name, but assume it was also Orvis; assorted bits of rigging, etc. that were likely added later; and a 4 or 5 piece bamboo rod...I didn't pull it out, but assume the handle could flip for fly or spinning. The whole thing was in an appr. 4 x 8 x 36 in box, with handle...rod mounted in lid. Couldn't see if it had a name on the lid (it was open), but nothing on the handle side. Did Orvis put this out or has it been thrown together from assorted parts?

Ron Mc · Post by **Ron Mc** » Sun Sep 24, 2006 10:28 pm

1961 Traveler - 20/64, 16/64 & 11/64 ferrules, GBG or GBF line 9 6 7/8 4/1

think maybe it's a Traveler?

you need to find Greg Reynolds.

Look for him on Clark's board.

gadabout · Post by **gadabout** » Mon Sep 25, 2006 12:08 pm

I'll have to look through my catalogs. It definitely sounds like something Orvis would have put out.

gadabout · Post by **gadabout** » Tue Sep 26, 2006 8:21 pm

My 1969 Orvis catalog shows a "Rocky Mountain Fly/Spin Set". It's a 6 1/2' rod in a Mahogany box (which I always thought looked really cool). It came with an Orvis 50A spinning reel and a 3 1/4" Battenkill fly reel, plus lines and a number of other accessories. I've always had a craving for one of those sets.

Ron Mc · Post by **Ron Mc** » Tue Sep 26, 2006 9:06 pm

56755 1969 Rocky Mountain Fly and Spin 6 1/2 2 3/4 3/2 Grey bag & natural aluminum tube with blue, silver and gold foil label

here we go. John, record the serial number and send the details to Greg Reynolds for his archive - or send them to me and I'll get them him.

any photos?

Post by **john elder** » Tue Sep 26, 2006 9:25 pm

I'll have to get back and get some more info...had the fam with me on that trip and didn't pursue. Film at 11!

Post by **john elder** » Thu Sep 28, 2006 12:23 am

Well, I now own that combo...at least for awhile. the rod is, in fact, the Orvis Impregnated Rocky Mountain Fly and spin, 6 1/2 ft 2 7/8 oz. Under that announcement on the butt section are the initials "H.D.Y. (or this may be a cursive G), followed by (6). The serial # that matches on all the sections is 62233. it's a really cute little rod...handle does not flip for spin or fly, but rather, you use a two ring system to put the reel high or low on the handle. There isn't an alternative shafting for spin and fly...three sections with spare tip section. Unfortunately, the spare tip has a split at the major flex point...not sure if I should re-glue this (epoxy or yellow glue?)...it is less than half way through and an easy glue job...thoughts?

The 50A spinning reel is in great condition, with low miles. The fly reel is an older model Hardy Lightweight (oh, darn) rather than a battenkill.

I'll have to get some pics and put them on.

gadabout · Post by **gadabout** » Thu Sep 28, 2006 7:36 pm

John,

That would be HDG - the line weight. Most people think an Orvis fishes better with one line weight lower than rated, so you might want to try a 5 weight on it.

THe 62233 serial number would date it to around 1971. Sounds like you got a nice outfit. I would check with Orvis for a price in repairing that section. I have heard that they have been reasonable in the past. Hopefully that's still true.

Looking forword to seeing the pics...

Ron Mc · Post by **Ron Mc** » Fri Sep 29, 2006 7:35 am

Orvis used to charge $125 for a replacement cane section. But John, you should definately contact them for a repair estimate.

Post by **john elder** » Fri Sep 29, 2006 8:30 am

I've decided to just use duct tape...I have it in every color, so the Straw shade should do well.

I've emailed Orvis about it...haven't heard anything back.

It's unlikely I'll keep any of this, although it is really a honey of a rod and that 50A runs so smooth. The kit also comes with one Orvis Leader, an Orvis knot tyer and instructions for both the latter and for the reels. Gadabout...you'll have to contact me directly if you are interested in it. You are still playing hard-to-get for a real name and no click button for email.

gadabout · Post by **gadabout** » Fri Sep 29, 2006 8:57 am

Click away John ...

Post by **john elder** » Tue Oct 03, 2006 1:01 pm

Here are some pics of the Orvis kit...with apologies to my dial-up friends. If you want a pic or two directly by email, just let me know so you won't have to wait on this post to come up. Also, if anyone has a Battenkill reel that should go in this box, I'd appreciate some help...I believe that is about the only thing that's missing (Orvis line dressing is also in the box, but not shown)

Ron Mc · Post by **Ron Mc** » Tue Oct 03, 2006 3:16 pm

thanks John, that is beautiful.

Ron Mc · Post by **Ron Mc** » Thu Oct 12, 2006 7:59 am

here's one for you, John:

Orvis Auction

Post by **john elder** » Thu Oct 12, 2006 10:42 am

well...I guess WOW would be in order! Mine isn't the presentation in that auction, but that lower rod is the same one in the kit I have. Sweet!

gadabout · Post by **gadabout** » Thu Oct 12, 2006 6:44 pm

There's one of those on ebay right now but the guy posted no pictures, so it doesn't have any bids.