Charles F. Orvis German-Silver Trout Reel

The original 1874 patent Orvis fly reel is widely accepted as the “father” of all modern fly reels. The upright design, coupled with the narrow, heavily perforated spool, has been the basis of fly-reel design for more than 140 years. The earliest examples sold and marketed by C. F. Orvis of Manchester, Vermont, lacked a click, were constructed of German silver, and were housed in a fitted walnut box.

Courtesy of Tyler Thompson

Yearc. 1874Accession No.L2022.003.006Made byCharles F. Orvis