A fly reel is one of the most important pieces of equipment for fishermen but with such an array of choice it can be difficult to make the final decision.
The following ten fly reels are at a range of different prices but represent some of the best design available.
A super smooth reel that is extremely easy to adjust the Waterworks Lamson Guru Fly Reel ($135+) weighs in at 8.8 oz. and measures in at 6 x 5 x 4 inches. The fully machined Guru is the lowest priced reel in the highly acclaimed Lamson range. Catch salmon and other larger fish no problem with this reel that is available from four weight all the way through to ten weight. The reel is specifically designed to minimize its weight while also maximizing its structural strength.
Made from die-cast aluminum, the Shakespeare Agility Fly Reel 3/4 ($29+) is designed to complement the Agility range of rods. A very versatile model with the ability to switch between right and left-handed retrievals, it also offers a very smooth drag system. The handle knob is CNC machined, and the overall constructions are extremely strong and robust.
Produced by The Orvis Company, the Hydros Large Arbor Fly Reel (from $150+) is perfect for big game fish that need a strong hand. The Hydros system is revolutionary having been created using carbon washers and a system of click adjustments and offers a sealed drag surface. Everything from trout to tuna can be safely and smoothly reeled in with no breakages or snapping.
A very economical buy, the Greys GX900 Fly Reel ($150+) offers real quality at an affordable price. The conversion from left-hand to right-hand winding is tool-less, making the switch simple and easy. There is a captive spool release together with a large arbor design, and top-grade aluminum is used. Light in weight without compromising on strength, this reel leaves you free to reel in your catch whether thigh high in a river or fishing in the sea.
Delivering the latest angling technology from Finland, the Vision CDC Fly Fishing Reel #3/4wt ($314) offers a particularly lightweight design. A mid-sized arbor reel with a progressively sealed drag system, this reel is ideal and targeted for trout fishermen. The positive click system means that every retrieval is smooth, even when matched with a large line capacity. The manufacturer, Vision, may not have the instant brand recognition that some of the others have, but they have been quietly producing high-quality fishing equipment for more than three decades.
Perfect for freshwater or saltwater fishing alike the Redington Rise Fly Fishing Reel ($170) is an impressive piece of kit. Made with high-quality fully machined, aluminum this reel is available in dark charcoal, mantis, and glacial colors. With a large arbor design, this fishing reel is available in 3 models, that cast for 75 to 250 yards and are very lightweight at between 4.6oz to 5.3oz. A lifetime warranty and Nylon reel case ship with each purchase.
The Gun smoke colored World Wide Sportsman Gold Cup Fly Reel ($170) has been extensively tested from Alaska to Florida for all angling conditions. Featuring an 11-washer drag stack that is totally sealed this reel can become an essential part of your angling equipment. Made from cold-forged, CNC-machined, 6061 T6 aluminum, the fly reel is lightweight (the two models weigh in between 8.3oz and 9.2oz) yet strong, and looks attractive to the eye. Fans of saltwater fishing can rely on this reel as it is corrosion proof and performs much better than competitor products in saltwater conditions.
With a large arbor ported design, the Orvis CFO Fishing Reel ($325+) is an excellent choice for the experienced fisherman. Made in the US from black nickel this reel is available in three models (supporting 1-3, 3-5 and 5-7 line weights). This reel is very lightweight, weighing between 3.2oz to 3.5oz. This click and pawl style reel has recently undergone re-design to modernize to the latest standards.
A high-quality design, the Sage 4200 Series Fly Reel ($289+) is made from aircraft grade aluminum. With a sealed drag unit this piece of kit offers rigidity and strength as well as reducing the weight, without affecting the performance in any way. There’s also a numbered adjustment knob for the drag so you can repeat the conditions exactly time and again. Convertible from left to right-handed winding, this exceptional fly reel is great for lighter salmon, the majority of trout plus saltwater fish.
Very large in design, the Tibor Pacific Fly Reel ($770+) is specifically designed for sea fishing. Catch Marlin, Sailfish, Tarpon and Tuna with this beautiful heavyweight of the fly fishing world. Available in six colors (Black, Blue Crimson, Green, Gold, and Gray) each reel carries its serial number for easy identification and your protection. All internal parts are sealed separately to prevent corrosion. Trading up your old reel is an available option when buying this product. Sold with engraving as an option, and a neoprene case this reel makes an ideal gift.
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