Orvis CFO 123 Disc Fly Fishing Reel. Made in England. W/ Case.

# **How to Choose the Orvis CFO 123 Disc Fly Fishing Reel – Made in England (w/ Case)**

When it comes to fly fishing reels, few names carry the prestige and craftsmanship of the **Orvis CFO 123 Disc**. Made in **England**, this reel is a favorite among anglers who appreciate **precision engineering, durability, and classic aesthetics**. Whether you’re targeting **trout, grayling, or small salmon**, the CFO 123 Disc offers a perfect balance of **performance and elegance**.

In this guide, we’ll break down **key factors** to consider when choosing this reel, including **design, drag system, material, and compatibility**, so you can make an informed decision.

## **1. Understanding the Orvis CFO 123 Disc’s Heritage**
The **CFO (C. F. Orvis) series** has been a staple in fly fishing since the 1970s, known for its **timeless design and British craftsmanship**. The **CFO 123 Disc** continues this legacy with **modern upgrades**, including a **smooth disc drag system** while retaining its **classic look**.

– **Made in England**: Unlike mass-produced reels, the CFO 123 Disc is **handcrafted** with meticulous attention to detail.
– **Classic Aesthetic**: The **anodized aluminum finish** and **knurled edges** give it a **vintage yet refined** appearance.

## **2. Key Features to Consider**

### **A. Drag System – Smooth & Reliable**
The **disc drag system** in the CFO 123 Disc is **fully sealed**, protecting it from **water, sand, and debris**. This ensures **consistent pressure** when fighting fish.

– **Adjustable drag**: Fine-tune resistance with a simple twist.
– **No startup inertia**: Unlike spring-and-pawl reels, the disc drag engages **instantly**, preventing sudden line breaks.

### **B. Lightweight & Durable Construction**
– **Machined aluminum**: Provides **strength without excess weight**, making it ideal for long casting sessions.
– **Corrosion-resistant**: The **hard-anodized finish** protects against saltwater and freshwater corrosion.

### **C. Perfect Balance for 3-5 Weight Rods**
The CFO 123 Disc is designed for **3-5 weight fly rods**, making it a great match for:
– **Small to medium trout streams**
– **Delicate dry fly presentations**
– **Light nymphing setups**

### **D. Included Hard Case (Added Protection)**
Unlike many reels, the CFO 123 Disc comes with a **durable hard case**, ensuring **safe storage and transport**.

## **3. How to Choose the Right Model for Your Needs**

### **A. Freshwater vs. Saltwater Use**
While primarily a **freshwater reel**, the CFO 123 Disc can handle **light saltwater fishing** if rinsed properly. However, for heavy saltwater use, consider a **fully sealed drag system** like the **Orvis Mirage**.

### **B. Matching with Your Fly Rod**
– **3-4 weight rods**: Ideal for **small streams and delicate presentations**.
– **5 weight rods**: Best for **larger rivers and windy conditions**.

### **C. Spool Capacity & Backing**
– **Line capacity**: Holds **WF3F to WF5F lines** with **50-100 yards of 20 lb backing**.
– **Large arbor design**: Reduces **line memory** and allows for **faster retrieves**.

## **4. Why Choose the Orvis CFO 123 Disc Over Competitors?**
Compared to other reels in its class (such as the **Hardy Ultralite or Abel TR**), the CFO 123 Disc stands out because:

✅ **Classic British craftsmanship** with modern performance.
✅ **Smooth, sealed drag** for reliable fish fighting.
✅ **Lightweight yet durable** aluminum construction.
✅ **Includes a protective hard case** (rare at this price point).

## **5. Final Verdict: Is the Orvis CFO 123 Disc Worth It?**
If you’re looking for a **high-quality, handcrafted fly reel** that **blends tradition with modern engineering**, the **Orvis CFO 123 Disc** is an excellent choice. Its **smooth drag, lightweight design, and included case** make it a **great investment** for serious anglers.

For **trout anglers** who value **precision and aesthetics**, this reel is a **must-have**.

### **Where to Buy?**
Check out **KyleBooker’s premium fishing gear collection** for the **best deals** on the **Orvis CFO 123 Disc** and other top-tier fly reels.

🎣 **Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣


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