Fly fishing reel reviews are based on a variety of criteria. The large number of reels on the market make it difficult to discern when choosing a new reel. We also examine the company and tend to prefer companies with great customer service and quality control.
Reels are an important piece of equipment that can make the difference between landing and losing a trophy fish. Quality drag systems, weight, pick-up speed and durability are all a part of the equation. There are some great reels out there with prices ranging from budget to extreme. Let us help find the right one for you.
When you are choosing fly reels which one is the right one? Although the options may seem overwhelming, the process is not as complicated as you may think. Some people value the reel as little more than a line holder and although it is more important that you know how to land fish, a quality reel can go a long ways. We have examined several different factors that will help you determine which reels will fit your needs.
ROSS is a top reel manufacturer with two distinct logos. The ROSS USA products are made in the states and the products listed under the world wide logo are partially manufactured overseas. Both ends of the business produce some great and dependable reels. We have put these reels to the test in rough environments and they have survived more than a few beatings. We placed them at the top of the list for a reason. Click the header to read the full fishing reel reviews.
If you are in the market for an extremely smooth and quiet reel, Galvan is a great option. The reels are attractive and durable. Like ROSS, the company has a strong following based on years of great products and customer service. In this section we will examine the reels that Galvan offers.
Bauer is yet another reel manufacturer with high quality products. The company has an attractive line of reels, all of which are manufactured in the United States. The Oregon based company tends to target serious anglers with a desire for quality and durability. Check out our Bauer fishing reel reviews.
Lamson has a line of reels with something for everyone. The diverse line-up has a unique look and all of the reels have a very functional design. Lamson has a strong following because the products are of great quality and the company is customer oriented. The company also has an interesting history, beginning with mountain bike designs and moving forward to create some unique reels. Click the header to check out our Lamson fishing reel reviews.
You may know Cortland for their high quality fly lines but the company also has a stake in the rod and reel market. The company has a long standing tradition in the fly fishing world and the reels use straight forward designs to deliver a functional product for a reasonable price. Although Cortland is not pushing the limits in the reel market, their products definitely have a place. Check out our Cortland fishing reel reviews.
Abel makes some of the most attractive reels on the market. The company uses a large arbor design with a high quality drag to make a bomb proof fishing tool. Abel also has a line of high quality fishing tools and apparel. Click on the header to read our Abel fishing reel reviews.
Martin reels are commonly found in kits although the company does sell reels as individual units. Martin is associated with the Zebco brand that has a large presence in the spin fishing community. Martin reels are functional and they canserve the beginner on a tight budget although they do not compare with quality reels manufactured by the companieslisted above.
South Bend Fishing Reels
South Bend fly reels are in the same class as Martin. If cheap is your only option, they will suffice as a temporary piece of equipment. You can find some of the older models that have classic appeal. They once made some interesting automatic reels that would fit well in a vintage collection.
Sage Fly Reels
Sage is known as a leader in the fly rod market but that does not mean they don't know a thing or two about reels. Sage has several lightweight reels with great drag systems and an attractive style. The reels are also available in a wide range of prices.
Tioga fly reels are simple and effective. The reels fall somewhere in the middle of the market and work just fine for general trout fishing applications. They have a classic finish and will fit the bill for many anglers.
G Loomis Fly Reels
Like Sage, G Loomis is known for the high quality rods they build but the company also several reels. They do not have as many reels as Sage but they do have a couple of keepers. G Loomis makes lightweight, fast action rods and the reels also are light enough to help balance the fast rods.
Saltwater Fly Fishing Reels
Saltwater reels have a special place in the fly fishing market. They must be extremely durable in order to withstand the corrosive properties of saltwater. In this section we will examine the top saltwater fly reels. If you spend a great deal of time in the salt, you must be a little on the picky side when it comes to choosing a reel.
Antique Fly Fishing Reels
Antique fly reels can either be added to a collection or used to compliment an antique rod. Many bamboo rod lovers will match the classic look of the rod with a classic reel. In this section we will examine a few of classics for a new look at some old reels.