The Orvis Ratio replaces the long-standing Mirage as Orvis’ flagship big-game saltwater reel. Built for anglers chasing powerful fish, it delivers serious drag pressure, huge backing capacity, and a fully sealed drag system designed to perform in harsh saltwater environments.
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Designed for heavy, big-game fish that require extra backing capacity
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Fully sealed carbon-stainless drag with 16 surfaces (vs. 8 on Hydros®) for smoother, more precise performance and higher drag pressure
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Delivers up to 20 lb of smooth, consistent drag pressure with zero startup inertia
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Instant-engage drag for smooth line control
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Type II anodized aluminium resists corrosion
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Fully sealed drag with redundant O-ring protection keeps water and debris out
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Lighter than Mirage® with improved handle ergonomics for reduced fatigue
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Oversized 5/16" shaft and reinforced line guard for strength and reliability
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Large-diameter indexed drag knob for quick, precise adjustments
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Size VI includes deep and shallow spools; deep spool holds a 14-weight line with up to 600 yards of backing for serious big-game species
The Ratio is built around a powerful carbon-stainless drag system engineered to deliver the stopping power needed when serious fish are on the line. The drag uses precision-machined surfaces to produce up to 20 lb of smooth, consistent pressure with zero startup inertia. This means the drag engages instantly and smoothly when a fish takes off, protecting leaders while still allowing you to apply serious pressure.
With 16 drag surfaces working together, the system delivers extremely smooth performance while maintaining the high drag pressures required for big-game fishing. This level of control becomes critical when powerful fish make fast, long runs.
Strength and durability are central to the design. The oversized 5/16" shaft and reinforced line guard provide exceptional structural rigidity, ensuring the reel performs reliably even when heavy drag pressures are applied. Machined from corrosion-resistant aluminium and finished with Type II anodizing, the Ratio is built to withstand constant exposure to salt, spray, and tough tropical conditions.
Built for brutal saltwater environments, the reel is fully sealed to keep out salt, sand, and debris. The oversized indexed drag knob allows quick micro-adjustments during a fight without fumbling, giving you precise control when the pressure is on.
Despite its big-game capability, the Ratio is lighter than the Mirage it replaces. Improved handle ergonomics reduce fatigue during long casting sessions and extended fights with powerful fish.
The Ratio also pairs perfectly with Orvis’ Helios D rods, creating a powerful saltwater setup designed to deliver maximum lifting power, casting control, and fish-fighting performance.
Backing capacity is generous across the entire range, ensuring you’ve got the line needed when big fish decide to run. At the top end, the Size VI includes both deep and shallow spools. The deep spool can hold a 14-weight fly line with up to 600 yards of backing, making it capable of tackling the largest fish encountered in fly fishing.
Who is this reel for?
Size III – 5–7 weight
Perfect for Victorian estuaries and light saltwater fishing. A great match for chasing bream, small trevally, and light flats species where a compact but powerful reel is still important.
Size IV – 7–9 weight
Built for classic flats fishing. Ideal for bonefish and general saltwater work where strong drag and backing capacity are essential.
Size V – 9–11 weight
Designed for serious flats and tropical fishing. Perfect for permit, big barra, and other powerful species that demand extra stopping power and reliable backing capacity.
Size VI – 11–12 weight
A true big-game reel built for giant trevally and other heavy saltwater species. Delivers the stopping power needed when a GT is heading straight for coral.
Size VI Deep – 12–14 weight
The heavy artillery. Designed for offshore and bluewater fly fishing targeting tuna, marlin, and other pelagic species where enormous backing capacity and extreme drag pressure are required.
