How many times have you purchased a reel before really knowing if it was right for you? If you are like most fly fishers, probably more than once. There are a lot of reels out there to choose from and it can be hard to know if you’re getting a quality product for your money.
To help you find the best fly fishing reels for you, we’ve rounded up the top
Our Editor’s Best Fly Fishing Reels Reviews
- Pre-loaded Fly Reel - The fly reel is equipped with Tapered flying line to ensure accuracy even in windy conditions. The 8-strand backing line is extremely durable, and tapered leader could quickly cuts water. The fly reel with line Greatly saves time and brings you a better fishing experience
- Solid and Light Weight - Precision CNC-Machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy for high-impact durability; Larger CNC hollow design makes the reel lighter than ordinary reels
- Silky Smooth Drag - Multi-disc premium carbon and stainless steel drag system with one-way clutch bearing for smooth immediate drag engagement. Accurate click drag and silent retrieve
- Corrosion Resistance - Hard anodized for surface protection increases abrasion resistance and weather fastness; Cold forged and tempered for superior strength and rigidity
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
- ULTIMATE CONTROL: The Martin Caddis Creek fly reel is a size 6/5 single action fishing reel that is designed with a changeable right- or left-hand retrieve to fit both right-handed and left-handed anglers, and rim control that provides a place for the angler to manually control the drag
- DURABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT: Engineered with an aluminum frame for added durability and a lightweight aluminum spool so you can enjoy many fishing adventures with ease for years to come
- PRECISION CASTING: Featuring a metal click drag with an on/off control and push-button release that alerts you when the line is coming off the reel and to control the speed at which the line comes off of the reel
- VERSATILE USE: With a fly line capacity of 30-yards WF6F and the ability to hold up to 50-yards of 20-pound backing, this reel is perfect for catching light species such as panfish and trout
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
- INNOVATIVE FLY REELS - The Ross Reels Animas are high-performance reels for fishing that combine new machined features and visually stunning, time-proven design; They are ideal fly reels for freshwater and saltwater fishing
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE DRAG SYSTEM - The Animas Fishing Reel has a composite-disc drag with a stainless steel interface; The drag system was improved to deliver more power in the established Ross Reels design used by fly anglers around the world
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN - With a redesigned frame and spool geometry, this saltwater fly reel has a high performance and eye-catching design; The Animas Reel features a bell-shaped, ultra-large arbor and a frame accented by a silhouette of the Colorado mountains
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS - Intricately machined details of the large arbor fly reel ensure durability and long service life; The new trouble-free spool with reduced weight and increased strength, yields zero-maintenance performance
- LIGHTWEIGHT REEL HANDLE - The Animas fly rod reel also incorporates an ultra-light canvas phenolic handle which gets tackier when wet; The two-tone drag knob features an updated aesthetic with a lower profile and increased grip
- √ Wide Application - Fly reels are perfect for freshwater; normal trout riverslakes. The reel is better for beginners and bass fishing. Suitable for redfish, lake trout, steelhead, bass ect
- √ Ergonomic Knob Design - For easy drag adjustments on the water, even in cold weather! All it takes is the slight turn of the knob.
- √ Ultralight Material - Made of Engineering Plastic,that made it more durable and corrosion resistant in all environment. also give the reel a lighter weight than ordinary ones.
- √ No Corrosion - After 90 days of brine immersion test, there is no obvious rust and corrosion phenomenon.
- √ Best Gift - Powerful, durable fishing reel suited for normal freshwater and light saltwater use. Perfect for inshore fishing, and for Bass, Stripers, Walleyes, Catfish, and Northern Pike. It’s an awesome gift for man, father or fisherman in Father's Day, Birthday or Christmas.
- 🎣【Complete 5/6 weight Fly Rods Kit】- 4 piece fly rod , a large arbor reel, preinstalled line, a fly box, flies, and a lightweight rod case with a zippered storage pouch. It's the best gift to send father, son, husband, fiancé, boyfriend.
- 🎣【Premium Performance Fly Pole】 - The mid flex IM8 graphite fly rod comes with stainless steel stripper guide which reduces friction and heat, and won't harm the fish line. It’s also made up of adjustable CNC aluminum reel seat which effectively avoids loose swing phenomenon on fishing. The western-style grip made with compressed cork trim rings helps casting accuracy and avoids fatigue.
- 🎣【Diecast Aluminum Fly Reel】 - Durable aluminum construction and spool, Gear ratio is 1:1. One-way only roller bearing system, Ball Bearings: 2+1BB. Superior Teflon disk drag design, Line Weight: 5/6 External Dia: 2-9/10", Net Weight: 5.2 oz. Pre-loaded 20lb 98ft backing, weight forward 6-weight floating 100ft fly line, and 9ft 3X leader.
- 🎣【Floating Fly Flies Box and Carrier Bag】 - The Beginner Fly Flies Box is composed of waterproof fly box and 20 flies. The study rod case with a zippered storage pouch holds everything you need for fly fishing. It's easy to carry anywhere. It's the best fishing kit suited for trout, pan fish, small streams, ponds, and backpacking.
- 🎣 【Best Gifts Choice】: It's the best father day gifts to any beginner or addictive anglers. Special for Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, Father's Day, Valentine's Day ect.
- MODERATE ACTION: The 8-foot 3-piece fly fishing rod combo provides a moderate action, making it ideal for catching light and medium species from panfish to trout, walleye, bass and more
- EXPERTLY CRAFTED MATERIALS: Durable 5/6 weight fiberglass rod blank construction that holds a 4-6 LT6F line weight and comes with a comfortable EVA rod handle that provides all-day comfort and a sure-grip
- DURABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT: This size 5/6 single action fly fishing reel with rim control comes fully loaded and pre-spooled with 6 weight floating premium fly line, backing and leader. The reel has a line capacity of 30-yards LT6F, and backing capacity of 50/20 yds/lbs. It features a durable aluminum frame, lightweight aluminum spool, a metal clicker with an on/off control and push-button release
- 6-PIECE TACKLE KIT: This custom fly tackle assortment includes 6 pieces of fly tackle, and includes a scannable barcode linking to a getting started guide so all fly fishing enthusiasts can learn how to cast, tie knots, and care for your equipment
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
- HVCE fly fishing reel from Aventik, HVCE Fly Reel Pre-loaded with WF5F fly line, backing line, tapered leader
- OUTSTANDING COST EFFECTIVE VALUE: Aventik C-III, Classic III, is new graphite large arbor fly reel, light weight and strong. Polymeric material made for durability and corrosion resistance. Large arbor design for backing capacity and fast retrieve.
- Rugged central disc drag for extremely smooth and consistent drag control.
- One-way bearing for easy conversion between hands, silent forward retrieve, and a clear clicker sound on drag.
- THREE YEAR WARRANTY: If any problem about The product, please contact us firstly and our customer service will solve it for you soon.
- Outstanding Value: Designed for beginners while still remaining advanced enough for an angler's backup
- Polished Die-cast Construction: Strong and Durable All-aluminum construction, large arbor design for rapid line retrieval
- Teflon Disc and Stainless Steel Drag System: Rugged disc drag for putting serious pressure on the fish
- One-way Bearing: For quick and easy left-to-right hand retrieval switch
- Pre-loaded with Weight forward floating fly line, backing and leader
- FLY FISHING POLE AND REEL COMBO - This fishing rod travel case comes with an 8-foot 3-piece fly rod, graphite reel seat with stainless-steel guides, 5/6 fly fishing reel, 45-feet of line, 9-feet of Nylon 4x tapered leader, 2 dry flies, and a carry case.
- QUALITY AND COMFORT - This fishing rod and reel combo includes an easy-cast 6/7 weight fly rod with a fiberglass body and an EVA Foam handle, giving anglers a comfortable and secure grip. The fly rod also features a built-in hook keeper for added safety.
- FISHING ROD CASE FOR TRAVEL - This fishing kit and its accessories fit neatly into the included fishing rod travel case letting you conveniently store all your angling equipment between uses and easily transport your gear to the next fishing adventure.
- GREAT BEGINNER FLY FISHING KIT - Ideal for beginners, adults, and youth anglers alike, this fly fishing rod combo set makes an excellent gift. It comes with suggested tips and techniques to help amateurs get out on the water and start casting like a pro.
- PRODUCT DETAILS - Materials: Fiberglass, Graphite, Stainless-Steel, EVA Foam. Dimensions: Fully Assembled Rod: (L) 8'; Reel: (L) 3.25" x (W) 3.25" x (H) 1.25"; Carrying Case: (L) 35" x (W) 7". Color: Black.
- Fly Rod Combo Components: SF fly fishing rod combo includes a 5wt 9FT fly fishing rod, carrying case for easy protection, 5/6wt aluminum alloy fly reel pre-loaded with fly line, backing line, and tapered leader. And flies are packaged in a fly box, zinger 2pcs, a line nipper, a fishing forceps and 6 packs of 9FT tapered leader(2*4X,2*5X,2*6X), all of these are in the P-type rod tube, convenient to carry around.
- Fly Rod Features: SF 5 Weight 9 Foot medium-fast action fly rod body is made of pure IM7 24T plus 30T emerald green carbon fiber for good durability. The aluminum alloy reel seat with two lock rings for secure reel mounting. And stripping guides inserts and chrome guides for smooth gliding fly lines. For a comfortable grip, the rod is fitted with a 6.9-inch-long Western-style cork handle. And the hook keeper on the rod blank for holding flies.
- Pre-loaded fly reel: Matt black 5/6wt, the die-cast aluminum-alloy reel adopts surface anti-corrosion treatment. And the large arbor design is helpful to quick line retrieval. It is pre-loaded with WF5F-90FT fly line(Fluorescent Yellow), 20LB-50M backing line(Orange), and 9FT-4X tapered leader nylon(Clear). It is very suitable for fishing lovers and beginners.
- Waterproof fly box with flies inside: The fly box which measures 5.24" x 3.47" x 1.42" can hold up to 126 flies! To get you started, it includes the following flies: 3pcs Size 6 barbed Chernobyl Ant , 3pcs Size 12 barbed Tungsten Bead Head Green Tinsel Nymph and 3pcs Size 12 barbed No Hackle Tan Caddis.
- This combo includes many of the basic products needed for fishing. It is ideal for beginners to use this set to fish in streams, rivers, lakes and ponds. Any problem, please feel free to contact us.
Best Fly Fishing Reels Buying Guide
1. Fly Fishing Reels: The Reel is the heart of the fly fishing gear. If a reel is not well built, then the chances are that your fly fishing experience will not be very good.
So, when you are choosing the best fly fishing reel, you need to keep the following things in mind:
1. Material of the Fly Fishing Reel: Fly fishing reels are mainly made of two types of materials:
a. Single-sided reels: These are mainly made of aluminum or wood. They are the most affordable options.
b. Double-sided reels: These are made of stainless steel, titanium, or carbon fiber. They are more expensive than single-sided reels.
These reels provide a higher amount of strength and durability.
2. Fly Fishing Reel Features: The features of the fly fishing reel will depend on the budget you have.
You can get a basic reel with just a single drag and line capacity, or you can go for the best fly fishing reel with extra features like line counter, multi-disk drag, etc.
3. Breaking System of the Fly Fishing Reel: The breaking system of the reel will depend on the type of fish you are targeting.
If you are fishing for trout, then you can get a reel with a single breaking system.
But, if you are fishing for bigger fish like salmon or carp, then you will need a reel with dual breaking systems.
These reels offer two separate breaking systems, one for holding the fish and the other for backing out the fly line.
4. Line Capacity of the Fly Fishing Reel: The line capacity of a reel will depend on the type of fish you are targeting and the breaking system of the reel.
If you are getting a single breaking system, then you need to keep in mind that you will need more line capacity to land the fish.
On the other hand, if you are getting a double breaking system, then you can get a reel with lesser line capacity.
5. Fly Fishing Reel Weight: Fly fishing reels are available in different sizes and weights. So, you need to choose the reel that suits your requirements.
Depending on the type of fish you are targeting and the breaking system on the reel, you can opt for a lighter reel or a heavier reel.
6. Fly Fishing Reel Price: Fly fishing reels are available in different price ranges. You can get an affordable reel that works perfectly or you can spend more money to get a high-end reel.
If you are getting a single breaking system, then you can get a reel with lesser line capacity. But if you are getting a double breaking system, then you can opt for a reel with lesser breaking capacity.
What else you should know about fly fishing reels
1. What are the different types of fly fishing reels?
The different types of fly fishing reels are: baitcasting, spinning, and fly.
2. What are the benefits of using a fly fishing reel?
There are many benefits to using a fly fishing reel. Some of these benefits include increased accuracy when casting, the ability to control the speed of the line being released, and the ability to easily retrieve the line.
3. How do you properly maintain a fly fishing reel?
The best way to maintain a fly fishing reel is to keep it clean and dry. You should also oil the reel periodically to keep it in good working condition.
4. What are some common problems with fly fishing reels?
Some common problems with fly fishing reels include line tangles, line breaks, and reel malfunctions.
5. How do you choose the right fly fishing reel for your needs?
The first step is to consider the type of fish you will be targeting. If you are going after smaller fish, you will need a different reel than if you are targeting larger fish. The second step is to consider the type of water you will be fishing in. If you are fishing in a river, you will need a different reel than if you are fishing in a lake. The third step is to consider the type of rod you will be using. If you are using a fly rod, you will need a different reel than if you are using a spinning rod.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best fly fishing reels. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best fly fishing reels will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.