Orvis has launched a redesigned Hydros and a completely new Ratio big-game reel for 2026. Increasing drag strength and simplifying the reels were large factors in these products’ new designs.
Orvis Hydros Reel
New Product
Orvis Hyrdos
Highlights:
- New, fully sealed drag system
- Larger arbor
- MSRP: $279
The updated Hydros takes most of what’s made this reel so successful over the years and builds upon it. The reel is still made from type 2 anodized aluminum, but it features a new drag system that’s fully sealed. Orvis says this will help the reel last longer, as debris shouldn’t be able to enter the drag and cause problems.
It also comes with a tool-free mechanism to switch from left to right-hand retrieve, a useful feature that can help if you need to loan the reel to a fishing buddy. The arbor is larger to aid in line retrieval, and the handle is more ergonomic, as well.
The Hydros comes in sizes II through IV, covering line weights 3 through 9.
Orvis Ratio Reel
New Product
Orvis Ratio Reel
Highlights:
- No startup inertia for smooth, instant drag engagement
- Ultra-large arbor for fast retrieve
- MSRP: $498 – $649
The Ratio is a saltwater-focused reel designed to stand up to “brutal abuse,” per Orvis. This is a brand-new reel series built from the ground up, with a drag that can produce up to 16 pounds of pressure. Orvis says the Ratio doesn’t have any startup inertia, so the drag engages smoothly every time.
It features an oversized, indexed drag knob that allows anglers to fine-tune adjustments throughout a fight, to go along with its fully-sealed carbon-stainless disc drag system. Orvis says the Ratio also sports best-in-class stopping power.
The Ratio comes in sizes III through VI, which cover line weights from 5 to 14.