Best Fly Fishing Reels Buying Guide

Today’s fly fishing reels are not what most people described as line collectors. Before, they’re mainly used for very small fish in freshwater but with the growing popularity of saltwater fly fishing, better reels with more functions are made for larger fish. Modern fly fishing is totally different compare to what our grandfathers’ period, though the basics remain the same. And so are the fast developments of better fly fishing equipment. Choosing the right fly reel can save you not only money but also frustration later on.

Not knowing first the various types and functions of the reels you’re buying is a great mistake and with great expense. Basically, there are 3 types of reels which are all related to the recovery of the line. And they’re single-action, multiplying, or automatic.

Single-action fly reel is the most common type and best for general use. Single-action reel, the spool turns once for each turn of the handle which means that the line retrieval rate is a 1:1 ratio. Most of these models are lightweight. They’re simple with few moving parts and features. With minimal parts and features they’re much durable and reliable. Buy one with an extra spool so you can change line easily.

Multiplying-action fly reel is quite the same as single-action reel. The only difference is that each time the handle is turns the spool turns more than once, the ratio is 2:1. It’s used for fighting larger fish where it calls for faster recovering of long lengths of line fast.

Automatic fly reel do not comes with a handle, but instead it has a clockwork mechanism or trigger when pressed will automatically wind back the line. The retrieval rate is about 10-12 ft. per second. It’s used mainly in freshwater fly fishing for small fish that’ll not take much line. This kind of reel has limited line capacity. If you’re all for the thrill of sport fishing, this is not the reel. You find no fun with this reel in fighting a fish; I think it’s good for people with the use of one hand.

It’s important to make sure that the reel and rod are balanced in weight, and the line used must be of the same weight to the rod. That is to say if you have a 6 wt. rod and line you need to combine it with a 6 wt. fly reel.

Drags

Fly fishing reels have 2 types of drag-system, spring and pawl, and disc-drag.

The spring and pawl fly fishing reels are traditional; they still find favor with some anglers. They’re mainly used for catching panfish and trout. They’re good for light tackle with light tippets.

Reels with the disc-drag system are for fighting larger fish, especially saltwater species. They work exactly like the brake of a car. Fly reels with this system is getting very popular, especially those with large arbor. Buy one with an extra spool.

Last of all I would like to advise you not to buy those cheap low quality fly fishing reels with funny unheard of brands. Cheap fly reels usually do not perform; they sometimes let you down even after a few casts or worse still in the middle of playing a fish. Instead of enjoying the day fishing, do not let these cheap reels spoil your day. Buy one with an establish brand which might cost more, but you’ll get real satisfaction for the extra that you spend and it may last for years.

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