• Post category:Fishing Reels
  • Post comments:0 Comments
  • Post last modified:August 11, 2022
  • Reading time:30 mins read

Best Fly Fishing Reels

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the right fly fishing reel for your needs. But with so many great options on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. To help make your decision a little easier, we’ve put together a list of the top-rated fly fishing reels available today.

Best Fly Fishing Reels Review

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best reels on the market today and tell you why they’re worth your money. So whether you’re just starting out in fly fishing or you’re looking for an upgrade, read on for the top-rated fly fishing reels!

#1 Sage Click Fly Reel

Sage Click Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Sage Click Fly Reel is the perfect choice for anglers looking for a lightweight reel that can balance the lightest rods. The large concave arbour provides maximum capacity and retrieval, while the cold forged, tempered, machined and anodized construction ensures durability. The large palming rim provides greater fight control, and the adjustable click and pawl drag system ensures easy conversion from left- to right-hand retrieve. The ergonomic handle design is comfortable to use, and the neoprene and embroidered ballistic nylon reel case protects your investment.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Concave arbour for maximum capacity and retrieval

  • Cold forged, tempered, machined, and anodized construction for durability

  • A large palming rim provides greater fight control

  • Adjustable click and pawl drag system

  • Ergonomic handle design

Cons
  • The Sage Click Fly Reel is not waterproof

  • It can be difficult to convert from left- to right-hand retrieve

#2 Tibor Riptide Fly Reel

Tibor Riptide Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Tibor Riptide Fly Reel is a top-quality reel that is perfect for the dedicated fly fisherman. With its large outer and hub diameters, it ensures quick retrieves, while the hard-coated aluminium main gear ensures smooth and reliable operation. The open hub bed, perforated spool and drum allow for easy line management, and the ultra-smooth impregnated cork disc drag provides smooth and consistent drag performance. The positive dented drag adjustment allows for easy and precise drag adjustment, while the balanced reel stand with a hook keeper and spare clutch dog springs provides stable support when casting or retrieving. The reel can also be easily converted from right-hand to left-hand retrieve, making it perfect for both right and left-handed anglers.

Pros
  • Quick retrieves

  • Hard-coated aluminium main gear

  • Open hub-bed, perforated spool and drum

  • Ultra-smooth impregnated cork disc drag

  • Positive dented drag adjustment

  • Balanced reel stand with a hook keeper and spare clutch dog springs

Cons
  • Noisy

#3 Cheeky Limitless Fly Reel

Cheeky Limitless Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Cheeky Limitless Fly Reel is a technologically advanced, light, and strong reel that is perfect for small backcountry waters. It is crafted of high-grade aerospace aluminium and features multi-axis machining that loads metal at key stress points. The integrated reel foot and oversized arbour make this reel a great choice for anglers who demand the best in performance and durability. The fully sealed Gasket Drag System (GDS) provides smooth, consistent drag while the quick, easy left/right conversion makes this reel a versatile option for any fishing situation.

Pros
  • Lightweight and strong

  • Multi-axis machining for increased durability

  • Integrated reel foot and oversized arbour

  • Fully sealed Gasket Drag System for smooth drag

Cons
  • It may not be durable enough for larger fish.

#4 Sage Spectrum LT Fly Reel

Sage Spectrum LT Fly Reel

View on BassPro

Looking for a lightweight, compact, and highly fishable fly reel? Look no further than the Sage Spectrum LT. Made from 6061-T6 aerospace grade aluminium, this reel is built to last. It features a large arbour with a concave channel for easy line retrieval, and SCS (Sealed Carbon System) Drag for enhanced fish-fighting performance. The One Revolution Drag Knob allows you to easily adjust drag settings, with numbered detents for precise control. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to use and can be easily converted from left- to right-hand retrieve. Plus, the included reel case protects your reel when you’re on the go.

Pros
  • Lightweight and compact

  • Made from 6061-T6 aerospace grade aluminium

  • Features a large arbour with a concave channel for easy line retrieval

  • SCS (Sealed Carbon System) Drag for enhanced fish-fighting performance

  • Included reel case protects your reel when you’re on the go

Cons
  • The reel is lightweight which can make it feel less durable

#5 Redington Tilt Euro Nymph Fly Reel

Redington Tilt Euro Nymph Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Redington Tilt Euro Nymph Fly Reel is the perfect choice for anglers looking for a versatile and well-rounded reel. With three included 1-oz. weights, it’s easy to balance your casting setup, and the full-frame design with a narrow ultra-large arbour provides plenty of strength and durability. The compact carbon drag system delivers smooth stopping power, while the rounded reel foot ensures easy wrapping of rigged leaders. For added convenience, the recessed drag knob ensures easy adjustability.

Pros
  • Versatile and well-rounded

  • Easy to balance your casting setup

  • Full-frame design with a narrow ultra-large arbour provides plenty of strength and durability

  • A compact carbon drag system delivers smooth stopping power

  • Rounded reel foot ensures easy wrapping of rigged leaders

  • The recessed drag knob ensures easy adjustability

Cons
  • Price

  • Weight

  • Limited Colors

#6 Orvis Mirage LT Fly Reel

Orvis Mirage LT Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Orvis Mirage LT Fly Reel is a great choice for anglers looking for a reel that balances well with lighter rods. This reel is crafted in New Hampshire by skilled American reel makers and is constructed from strong, lightweight 6061 T6 bar stock aluminium. The Type-II anodizing provides corrosion resistance and the sealed, maintenance-free carbon and stainless steel disc-drag system ensures smooth and reliable performance. The quick-adjust drag knob allows you to quickly adjust from zero to full drag with just a single rotation, while the zero start-up inertia and precise low-end control protect light tippets and eliminates line shock.

Pros
  • Lightweight and well-balanced

  • Constructed from strong, lightweight 6061 T6 bar stock aluminium

  • Type-II anodizing provides corrosion resistance

  • Sealed, maintenance-free carbon and stainless steel disc-drag system ensures smooth and reliable performance

Cons
  • It is not as heavy-duty as other fly fishing reels on the market.

#7 Pflueger Automatic Fly Reel

Pflueger Automatic Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Pflueger Automatic Fly Reel is a longtime favourite among farm pond and small stream enthusiasts. This very-quick 6-8 weight Pflueger fly fishing reel is equipped with an aluminium alloy frame and spool, stainless steel main spring, reel foot, and line guard making this reel the most efficient auto-return fly fishing reel available today. The main spring release and fold-down trigger make for easy storage, while the sleek design and durable construction of this reel ensure that it will be a trusted companion on your fishing adventures for years to come.

Pros
  • Very quick

  • Aluminium alloy frame and spool

  • Stainless steel main spring

  • Reel foot and line guard

  • Easy storage

Cons
  • Some users have had issues with the reel’s durability

  • The fold-down trigger can be easily missed and cause the line to snap

  • It can be difficult to get the automatic function to work properly

#8 Orvis Battenkill Fly Reel

Orvis Battenkill Fly Reel

View on BassPro

If you’re looking for a fly reel that’s both classically styled and technologically advanced, look no further than the Orvis Battenkill. This reel features a 4-position click-and-pawl drag system that’s been designed for optimal performance. Additionally, the narrower, wider spool means less line stacking on retrieve and higher line retrieval rates. And because it’s ultra-lightweight and machined from heavy-duty bar-stock aluminium, it’s easy to carry with you wherever you go. Plus, it easily converts from left- to right-hand retrieve, so you can use it however you like. Black nickel finish.

Pros
  • Classically styled and technologically advanced

  • 4-position click-and-pawl drag system

  • Narrower, wider spool for less line stacking and higher line retrieval rates

  • Ultra lightweight and machined from heavy-duty bar stock aluminium

  • Easily converts from left to right-hand retrieve

Cons
  • It may be too advanced for some beginners

#9 Greys QRS Fly Reel

Greys QRS Fly Reel

View on BassPro

Meet the Greys QRS fly reel, you’re new go-to for a day on the water. This reel is designed for quick and easy line changes, so you can be ready for any fishing situation. With just a flick of the QRS locking switch, you can quickly change out cassettes. The QRS comes with 4 cassettes (2 of each line size), so you’ll be all set to hit the water. The full bar-stock 6061 aluminium frame provides a lightweight, durable structure, while the adjustable Rulon disc drag ensures smooth operation. Plus, the clear polycarbonate spools feature line-identification pins to speed up swapping.

Pros
  • Quick and easy line changes

  • Comes with 4 cassettes

  • Full bar-stock 6061 aluminium frame

  • Adjustable Rulon disc drag

  • Clear polycarbonate spools

Cons
  • It can be difficult to find replacement parts for the QRS fly reel.

#10 Cheeky Tyro Fly Reel

Cheeky Tyro Fly Reel

View on BassPro

Looking for a fly reel that’s both extremely stable and durable? Look no further than the Cheeky Tyro Fly Reel. This reel is made with a lightweight, precision-machined frame and spool that are perfect for a variety of fishing conditions. The CNC-machined components ensure smooth, reliable performance, while the quick-change spool and B2 channel make it easy to switch between left- and right-handed retrieval. The generous backing capacity and advanced Rev Carbon drag system give you the power and control you need to land the big ones, while the silent, smooth retrieve ensures an enjoyable fishing experience. The best part? It comes with a custom neoprene reel case to keep your reel protected.

Pros
  • It is extremely stable and durable.

  • It is made with a lightweight, precision-machined frame and spool that are perfect for a variety of fishing conditions.

  • The CNC-machined components ensure smooth, reliable performance.

  • The quick-change spool and B2 channel make it easy to switch between left- and right-handed retrieval.

  • The silent, smooth retrieve ensures an enjoyable fishing experience.

Cons
  • The backing capacity is not as large as some of the other options on the market.

  • The drag system is not as powerful as some of the other options on the market.

#11 Pflueger Medalist Fly Reel

Pflueger Medalist Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Pflueger Medalist fly reel is an icon, redesigned for modern anglers. It’s lighter, stronger and more versatile than ever, with a classic standard arbour design that provides high backing capacity. The fully machined aluminium frame and spool are lightweight and durable, while the polymer handle is comfortable to use. The multi-position click-and-pawl check mechanism ensures smooth operation, and the quick-release spool makes it easy to convert from left to right retrieve.

Pros
  • Iconic standard arbour design provides high backing capacity

  • The machined aluminium frame and spool are lightweight and durable

  • The polymer handle is comfortable to use

  • Multi-position click-and-pawl check mechanism ensures smooth operation

  • Quick release spool makes it easy to convert from left to right and retrieve

Cons
  • The drag system is not as good as other reels on the market

  • It can be difficult to find parts for this reel

##12 Redington i.D Pre-Spooled Fly Reel

Redington i.D Pre-Spooled Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Redington i.D. Pre-Spooled Fly Reel is the perfect choice for any angler looking for a top-quality, durable reel that comes pre-spooled with RIO Mainstream fly line. This reel features a large arbour design for faster line retrieval and a smooth, strong Rulon disc drag system that provides consistent drag pressure and smoothness throughout the entire drag range. The soft-touch dual density handle provides comfortable and easy gripping, even when wet. And for the ultimate in streamside cred, add 1 of several colourful Redington decal designs (sold separately) to perfectly personalize your reel.

Pros
  • Pre-spooled with RIO Mainstream fly line

  • Large arbour design for faster line retrieval

  • Smooth, strong Rulon disc drag system

  • Soft-touch dual density handle

Cons
  • It may not be suitable for all fishing applications

  • RIO Mainstream fly line may not be to everyone’s taste

#13 Greys Fin Cassette Fly Reel

Greys Fin Cassette Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The Greys Fin Cassette Fly Reel is the perfect reel for anglers who want to easily switch out fly lines. The reel includes 2 spare cassettes and a protective pouch, making it easy to keep your reel in good condition. The die-cast, machine-finished construction is built to last, and the full disc-drag system ensures smooth operation. The large-arbour spool speeds up retrieves, making it easy to keep your line tight.

Pros
  • Easy line switch

  • 2 spare cassettes

  • Protective pouch

  • Die-cast, machine-finished construction

  • Full disc-drag system

Cons
  • The reel doesn’t include a built-in line cutter

#14 White River Fly Shop Kingfisher Fly Reel

White River Fly Shop Kingfisher Fly Reel

View on BassPro

The White River Fly Shop Kingfisher Fly Reel is our best reel yet! Its anodized finish and machined aluminium spool and chassis make it both smooth and light. Plus, its sealed 9-washer drag system gives you consistent, precise drag settings. And the 1-way bearing protects your reel from the elements. So whether you’re hitting the river for some fly fishing or just cruising around town, the White River Fly Shop Kingfisher Fly Reel is a perfect choice!

Pros
  • Smooth and lightweight

  • Anodized finish and machined aluminium spool and chassis

  • The sealed 9-washer drag system

  • 1-way bearing

Cons
  • It is a bit on the expensive side.

#15 Cheeky Fishing Limitless 325 Spool

Cheeky Fishing Limitless 325 Spool

View on OpticsPlanet

The Cheeky Fishing Limitless Fly Reel is the most technologically advanced fly reel on the planet. Featuring an innovative fully sealed Gasket Drag System (GDS) that is impenetrable by the elements, the Cheeky Fishing Limitless Fly Reel is available in five sizes and is fully machined from high-grade aerospace aluminium. The multi-axis machining technique used to create the Cheeky Fishing Limitless Fly Reel redistributes metal to key stress points, making it one of the lightest and strongest fly reels available. With an integrated reel foot, unbeatable line capacity, easy L/R conversion, and an insane arbour size for maximum retrieval rate, the Cheeky Fishing Limitless is a perfect choice for you!

Pros
  • Ultra-lightweight design for easy carrying

  • Large arbour for quick line retrieval

  • A rigid frame that prevents bending and warping

  • Smooth drag system for fighting fish

Cons
  • It is expensive compared to other fly reels on the market.

  • The Cheeky Fishing Limitless Fly Reel only comes in five sizes, which may not fit all anglers’ needs.

#16 Snowbee Spectre Series Cassette Fly Reel

Snowbee Spectre Series Cassette Fly Reel

View on OpticsPlanet

The Snowbee Spectre Series Cassette Fly Reel Systems is the perfect kit for anglers who require multiple weights and line types to catch a variety of fish. The included 3 spare cassette spools allow you to quickly and easily swap out lines without having to replace your reel, giving you the flexibility to efficiently cast close to the banks or at a distance. The reel is made of machined high-grade aluminium for durability and features a multi-disk cork and stainless steel centre drag for smooth performance. With its large arbour design, this reel ensures fast line retrieval while the ultra-lightweight construction ensures easy use.

Pros
  • Machined high-grade aluminium for durability

  • 3 spare cassette spools included

  • Multi-disk cork and stainless steel centre drag for smooth performance

  • A large arbour design ensures fast line retrieval

Cons
  • Price

  • Weight

  • Limited Drag Range

#17 Redington i.D Fishing Reel

Redington i.D Fishing Reel

View on OpticsPlanet

Looking for a great fly fishing reel? Check out the Redington i.D Fishing Reel! This reel is constructed from durable die-cast materials and features a full-frame back design that allows you to easily apply your own personal touch with decals. The large arbour design provides speedy line retrieval and tippet protection, while the smooth and strong Rulon disc drag ensures supreme grip and control. So if you’re looking for a top-quality fly fishing reel that allows you to express your individuality, make sure to check out the Redington i.D Fishing Reel!

Pros
  • Die-cast materials for durability

  • Full-frame back design for personalization

  • Large arbour design for speed and tippet protection

  • Rulon disc drag for smoothness and strength

Cons
  • It is extremely lightweight and can easily be blown around by the wind

  • The reel does not have a lot of features

#18 Snowbee Spectre Series Fly Reel

Snowbee Spectre Series Fly Reel

View on OpticsPlanet

The Snowbee Spectre Series Fly Reels are the perfect choice for anglers who demand the very best. These reels are machined from high-grade aluminium for superior strength and durability and feature a large arbour for fast line retrieval. Additionally, the multi-disk cork and stainless steel centre drag provide smooth, consistent drag pressure, while the ultra-lightweight design ensures fatigue-free fishing.

Pros
  • Superior strength and durability

  • Machined from high-grade aluminium

  • Large arbour for fast line retrieval

  • Multi-disk cork and stainless steel centre drag

  • Ultra-lightweight design

Cons
  • The reels are not suitable for beginners

FAQ

What should I look for in a fly reel?
When shopping for a fly reel, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

– Size: The size of the reel you choose will depend on the size of the fish you’re targeting. For smaller fish, you’ll want a reel with a smaller diameter; for larger fish, you’ll need a reel with a larger diameter.

– Drag system: The drag system is what allows you to adjust the tension on the line, so it’s important to choose a reel with a good drag system. A smooth and consistent drag is key when fighting big fish.

– Weight: The weight of the reel is another important consideration, especially if you plan to do a lot of hiking or backpacking with your gear. You’ll want to choose a reel that’s lightweight but still durable enough to handle big fish.

– Price: Obviously, price is always an important consideration when making any purchase. But when it comes to fly fishing reels, you definitely get what you pay for. So it’s important to choose a reel that fits your budget but still offers quality performance.

What reel size do I need to fly fishing?
When choosing a fly fishing reel, size is an important consideration. The reel size you need will depend on the weight of the line you plan to use. A good rule of thumb is to match the reel size to the line weight, using a larger reel for heavier line weights. So, if you are using a six-weight line, you would want a reel that can handle six weight line.
How do you match a fly rod and reel?

Matching a fly rod and reel is important for the overall experience. It helps to have the correct weight and action for the fly rod and also to choose a reel that can hold enough lines. When choosing a fly rod and reel, it’s important to consider the weight and action of the fly rod. The weight of a fly rod refers to how much pressure it takes to bend the rod. A higher-weight fly rod means more pressure is needed to bend it, while a lower-weight fly rod means less pressure is needed. The action of a Fly Rod is how much flex it has in the tip when bent. There are three main types of actions: slow, medium, and fast. A slower action Fly Rod will bend more through its entire length while a Fast Action Fly Rod will only bend at the tip. A medium action Fly Rod falls in between these two extremes. Most beginner Fly Fishing rods are medium or slow action rods because they are easier to use and provide more control over fish. When selecting your reel keep in mind what size line you will need to be spooled on it.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quality fly fishing reel, this is the buyer’s guide for you. We’ve compiled some of the best reels on the market and answered some common questions to help make your purchase decision easier. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, we have a reel that will fit your needs. Thanks for reading!

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments