Orvis, C.F. - Flea

For your consideration is an Orvis Flea. This is a 6' 6" 2/2 for a 4wt, weighing 2.20 oz., SN 44679. All sections are full length and straight.

The Flea is a wonderful full working taper. At 6' 6" and weighing only 2.20 oz., this rod puts no limits on your casting. This rod features dark tempered impregnated cane. Per Greg Reynold's Orvis Data Base, this was the ninth Flea built in the original batch of twelve Fleas produced in 1966. The inscription on two flats is missing and small areas of 'Orvis Impregnated Flea" show wear. The cork grip and wraps were replaced on the butt section. The work appears to have been done by Orvis. The remainder of the rod seems original. There is one wrap on one tip, which is a slightly different color and only noticeable to the discriminating eye. See picture 5, left side wrap of guide in the lower left. Original tube with sticker.

The Flea is one of the all-time great Orvis tapers developed by Wes Jordan with help from Bud Frasca, owner of North West Classic Tackle. Bud was an employee of Mills & Son. His job was to pick up the rods from Orvis and Leonard.