The Orvis Mirage LT III Fly Reel in mint condition paired with an Orvis WF 7 (Weight Forward, 7-weight) fly line is a high-performance setup suitable for a variety of freshwater and light saltwater fly fishing applications. Here’s a breakdown of its features and ideal uses:
Orvis Mirage LT III Fly Reel Highlights:
– Size: The LT III is designed for 7-8 weight lines, making it ideal for medium to large freshwater species (bass, pike, steelhead) and light saltwater (bonefish, redfish, smaller tarpon).
– Construction: Machined 6061-T6 aluminum with a corrosion-resistant Type III hard-anodized finish.
– Drag System: Sealed carbon fiber disc drag with 15 lbs of stopping power, smooth adjustment, and minimal startup inertia.
– Large Arbor: Quick line retrieval and reduced line memory.
– Weight: Lightweight (6.4 oz) for its size, balancing well with fast-action 7-weight rods.
– Made in the USA (high-quality craftsmanship).
Orvis WF 7 Fly Line:
– Weight Forward (WF) taper for easier casting at distance and improved turnover of larger flies.
– 7-weight line matches the reel’s capacity and is versatile for:
– Freshwater: Big trout, bass, pike, steelhead.
– Saltwater: Bonefish, redfish, snook (in calm conditions).
Ideal Rod Pairing:
– A fast or medium-fast 9-foot 7-weight fly rod (e.g., Orvis Helios 3D, Sage R8 Core, or Scott Meridian) would complement this reel well for optimal performance.
Condition (Mint):
– If truly mint, the reel should show no scratches, corrosion, or drag wear, with minimal (if any) line use. Verify:
– Smooth drag operation.
– No dings or anodizing flaws.
– Original packaging/accessories (case, warranty card).
Pricing Estimate (Used Market):
– Mirage LT III (Mint): $400–$550 (new retails ~$699).
– WF 7 Line (if included): Adds ~$50–$80 value (new ~$100+).
Who Should Consider This Setup?
– Anglers targeting larger freshwater species or light saltwater.
– Those seeking a durable, high-end reel with a smooth drag for fighting strong fish.
– Fans of USA-made gear with Orvis’s reliability.
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