Guest Post By: Justin Connolly
I got a message from Emma at Orvis UK, asking if I’d like to try out the new Orvis Mission 12’ #7wt double-handed fly rod. Needless to say, I jumped at the chance to get my hands on some new Orvis gear and give it a proper workout on my local water here in South Wales.
As a fly fishing guide and professional game angling instructor, I’ve cast my fair share of rods and line setups over the years, and one thing I’ve learned is that not all lines suit every rod — even when they’re the same weight. With that in mind, I headed off to the River Usk with a box full of reels and lines in different head lengths and grain weights to see what paired best with the Mission.
First Impressions
I always start with the looks — because let’s be honest, aesthetics matter. It’s what catches your eye first when you see a rod in the shop or online. The Mission doesn’t disappoint. With its matte black blank and bold orange accents, it really stands out. The cork handle features composite wear points for durability, and the aluminium reel seat with a hardwood insert gives it a classy finish. It’s the kind of rod that looks just as good on a top salmon beat as it does on your local club water.
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On the Water
In action, the Mission 12’ #7 has a slightly softer feel than some of the other double-handers I’ve used. Lately, I’ve found myself preferring this kind of smoother, more progressive action as it suits my casting style and makes for an enjoyable experience on the river.
I tested several different line types, from spey to Skagit, and everything in between. My favourite pairing turned out to be a Scandi head with a 10-foot tip. It delivered the fly beautifully, with precise placement and that smooth, subtle turnover that makes Scandi lines such a pleasure to cast.
With this shorter rod length, I found that stopping the rod tip high on the delivery stroke allowed the line to shoot effortlessly – minimal effort, maximum efficiency.
Versatility and Performance
The Mission 12’ #7 really shines as an all-rounder. It’s ideal for smaller to mid-sized salmon rivers, but I can easily see it doubling up for other species too by throwing larger streamers for bass or pike, for example. It’s light, responsive, and forgiving, yet still capable of delivering when you need a bit of power behind your cast.
Final Thoughts
The Orvis Mission 12’ #7 Short Spey Rod is a modern, versatile two-hander that blends finesse with performance. Whether you’re new to two-handed casting or an experienced spey caster, it’s a rod that rewards good technique without punishing small mistakes — and it’s a joy to fish with.
If you’re after a rod that looks sharp, feels smooth, and handles just about anything you throw at it, the Mission 12’ #7 is definitely worth a cast.
About Justin Connolly
Justin Connolly is a professional fly-fishing guide and certified fly-casting instructor, delivering Orvis Catch Series Experiences and guiding anglers across some of Wales’ finest waters. As the Regional Officer in Wales for both the Game Angling Instructors Association (GAIA) and the Pike Fly Fishing Association (PFFA), Justin brings deep technical expertise and a passion for sharing his knowledge, whether introducing newcomers to the sport or helping experienced anglers refine their casting and presentation skills.
