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Orvis Ratio Fly Reel

Stopping power, meet precision. The Orvis Ratio is built for the moments when everything is on the line, when big fish run hard, heavy pressure is required, and failure isn’t an option. Designed for big-game species and heavy fly rods, the Ratio delivers unmatched strength, powerful yet sensitive drag, and exceptional durability in the harshest environments.

At its core is a fully sealed carbon-stainless drag system engineered with precision surfaces to deliver up to 16 lbs. of smooth, consistent pressure with zero startup inertia. Whether you’re locking down on a flats fish before it finds mangroves or turning a bluewater bruiser headed for the horizon, the Ratio gives you total command of the fight.

The fully sealed, super smooth carbon and stainless steel disc drag has a HUGE range. Sensitive at the low end to protect lighter IGFA tippets, but superb stopping power at the high end. Esthetically, the reels are beautifully machined with an airy honeycomb-like pattern. Practically, the machined drag knob is large and textured making it very easy to grip, concave handle feels good, and the machined pattern in the top of the frame make handy hook holders. The spool fits firmly on the frame via a screw in cap that is also nicely textured and easy to grip. The cap will not detach from the spool so it cannot be lost. Easy right/left-hand conversion.

Orvis has got a solid winner here. Of course, it's backed by the Orvis Lifetime Guarantee.

Performance

The Ratio’s drag is built around 16 carbon-stainless contact surfaces, double that of Hydros, for smoother, more precise performance and higher drag pressure. Drag output ranges from 12–20 lbs. depending on size, with zero startup inertia for instant engagement.

True linear drag performance means every click of the oversized drag knob adds a consistent, predictable amount of resistance, no sudden jumps, no dead spots. The fully sealed system uses redundant O-rings and a V-ring seal to keep water, salt, and debris out, even when dunked in rough seas or laid in the shallows.

Why We Love It

We took the Ratio to Belize and tested it against bonefish, permit, and tarpon. One click of drag and we were in complete control. Even the guides were jealous. When we’re targeting fish that test both tackle and angler, we want absolute confidence in our drag. We use the Ratio because it gives us predictable pressure and real stopping power when the fight turns chaotic.

From bluewater tuna and billfish to flats species racing for coral heads, to steelhead in heavy current, the Ratio is built for powerful fish in demanding conditions. It’s the reel we trust when long runs, heavy pressure, and total reliability are required.

Materials

- Machined aluminum construction with Type II anodization for corrosion and scratch resistance
- Fully sealed carbon-stainless disc drag system
- Oversized 5/16" shaft and line guard for strength and reliability
- Low-profile counterweight for smooth balance without line interference

Specifications

- Drag: Fully sealed carbon-stainless system with 16 drag surfaces

- Drag Range: 12–20 lbs. by size

- Sizes: III (5–7 wt), IV (7–9 wt), V (9–11 wt), VI Shallow (11–12 wt), VI Deep (11–12, 14 wt)

- Diameter: 3.88"–5" depending on size

- Spools: Size VI available in deep and shallow configurations; deep spool holds a 14-weight line with 600 yards of backing

- Colors: Blackout, Gold, Silver/Deep Sea

Capacities

Ratio III    WF6F & 125-yds 20# Backing

Ratio IV    WF8F & 200-yds 20# Backing

Ratio V    WF10F & 225-yds 30# Backing

Ratio VI Shallow    WF12F & 325-yds 50# Gel Spun

Ratio VI Deep    WF14F & 600-yds 50# Gel Spun

Key Features

• Fully sealed drag with redundant O-ring and V-ring protection

• Zero startup inertia with truly linear drag adjustment

• 16 carbon-stainless drag surfaces for higher pressure and precision

• Oversized, indexed drag knob for fast, micro-adjustments

• Oversized 5/16" shaft for added strength and durability

• Type II anodized finish for saltwater corrosion resistance

• Deep and shallow spool options in Size VI