The 2026 Orvis Recon Saltwater Fly Rod is built for salt — wind, distance and hard‑running fish are all part of its day job. Taking inspiration from Orvis’ Helios™ tech, this rod packs high‑end performance into a package that’s rugged enough to chuck in the back of the ute, strap to a skiff or stow in pack for remote trips.
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.
Designed to handle long casts and tough conditions, Recon delivers strong lifting power, pinpoint tracking and smooth loading — so you can punch through coastal winds and lay flies precisely where you want them. Whether you’re sight‑casting on flats, stalking tailing fish or chasing bigger saltwater species, this rod adapts without fuss.
The matte blue blank with light blue accents looks the part, and the salt‑ready hardware — including chrome guides, solid anodised reel seat and a beefy fighting butt — stands up to the elements while still feeling balanced in the hand. Backed by Orvis’ 25‑year guarantee and made in the USA, the 2026 Recon Saltwater is a true go‑anywhere, do‑anything salt rod.
- The workhorse saltwater rod that goes anywhere and performs everywhere
- Incredible durability that doesn’t compromise castability
- Black type III anodized aluminum reel seat hardware with fighting butt
- Chrome snake guides and chrome stripping guide with SiC insert
- Matte blue blank with light blue accents
- Nylon-covered rod tube
- 25-Year Guarantee
- Made in USA