Best Fly Fishing Reel: Top Picks for 2024
We spent countless hours researching and testing various fly fishing reels to identify the best ones on the market. After considering factors such as type of fishing, weight, drag system, and material, we have compiled a list of the top fly fishing reels to enhance your fishing experience.
Our Top Pick
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6 Best Fly Fishing Reels
Here are our picks for the best fly fishing reels. There are picks for every budget, scenario and skill level.
Moonshine Rod Co. The Creede Fly Fishing Reel
Pros
- The fully machined 6061 forged aluminum reel and carbon fiber stacked disc drag provide high-quality construction.
- The large arbor design increases the overall circumference, which leads to a faster retrieve rate and backing capacity.
- The reel is easy to convert from left-hand retrieve to right-hand retrieve.
Cons
- The larger center spool diameter may be harder to handle for beginners.
- The price may be a bit high for some.
We have used the Moonshine Rod Co. The Creede Fly Fishing Reel and found it to be a reliable and durable option. The fully sealed carbon fiber stacked disc drag provides a smooth and consistent drag, and the large arbor design allows for a faster retrieve rate and backing capacity.
Additionally, the easy conversion from left-hand retrieve to right-hand retrieve is a convenient feature.
However, the larger center spool diameter may be harder to handle for beginners. Some customers have also reported issues with the spool capacity being too small but we didn’t have this issue.
Martin Caddis Creek Fly Fishing Reel
Pros
- The changeable right- or left-hand retrieve and rim control provide ultimate control for the angler to manually control the drag.
- The aluminum frame and spool make it durable yet lightweight for ease of use during fishing adventures.
- The metal click drag with on/off control alerts you when the line is coming off the reel and allows you to control the speed at which the line comes off of the reel.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty in reversing the retrieve direction.
- The quality of the line that comes pre-spooled may not be the best.
- The reel may not be suitable for catching larger species of fish.
We found the Martin Caddis Creek Fly Fishing Reel to be a reliable and sturdy option for catching light and medium species such as panfish and trout.
The pre-spooled line and leader made it easy to get started, but we did notice that the line quality was not the best.The reel was easy to handle and provided good control during casting, but we did experience some difficulty reversing the retrieve direction.
M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch ECO Large Arbor Fly Fishing Reel
Pros
- This reel is an outstanding value and incorporates all the features of more expensive reels.
- The all-aluminum construction and large arbor design make for a strong and durable reel with rapid line retrieval.
- The rugged disc drag and one-way bearing allow for quick and easy left-to-right hand retrieval switch and putting serious pressure on the fish.
Cons
- The drag selection could have a wider range.
- The line tends to bunch up on one side of the arbor, causing it to jam up in between the spool and frame.
- The handle may not be as comfortable as some other models.
We found the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch ECO Large Arbor Fly Fishing Reel to be an excellent choice for beginners and experienced anglers.The reel comes pre-loaded with fly line, backing, and leader, making it ready to use right out of the box.
The rainbow trout reel loaded with moss green line looks great and is sure to catch the eye of fellow anglers.The large arbor design allows for faster line retrieval, which is especially useful when you need to quickly reel in slack line.
The disc drag system is rugged and can put serious pressure on the fish, making it easier to reel in larger fish.We also appreciated the one-way bearing, which allows for quick and easy left-to-right hand retrieval switch.
Aventik Large Arbor Fly Fishing Reel
Pros
- Crafted with sturdy all-aluminum construction for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance in various environments.
- Designed with ergonomic considerations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.
- Comes with pre-loaded fly line, backing, and leader, providing a comprehensive solution for your fly fishing needs.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the finish looks a bit rough in certain areas.
- The reel may not be as smooth as some higher-end models.
- The reel is factory-set for left-hand retrieval, so you’ll need to convert it to right-hand retrieval if that’s your preference.
We recently had the chance to test out the Aventik Large Arbor Fly Fishing Reel, and we were impressed by its overall performance.
The all-aluminum construction feels sturdy and durable, and the large spindle design allows for swift line retrieval. The solid disc drag system can exert substantial pressure on fish, making it easier to reel them in.
One thing we really appreciated about this reel is the ergonomic design. It’s comfortable to hold and use, even for extended periods of time. And with the pre-loaded fly line, backing, and leader, you’ll have everything you need to get started with your fly fishing adventures.
Of course, there are a few downsides to this reel. Some customers have noted that the finish looks a bit rough in certain areas, which may be a concern for some. And while the reel is certainly smooth, it may not be quite as smooth as some higher-end models.
Additionally, the reel is factory-set for left-hand retrieval, so you’ll need to convert it to right-hand retrieval if that’s your preference.
Master One Fly Fishing Reel 5/6wt, Quick Push Button Switch, Durable Pre-Loaded Fly Reel with Line Combo Matt Gray Reel Loaded Fluo Yellow Line
Pros
- The precision machined aluminum alloy construction makes for a durable reel with no spool wobble.
- The disc drag system is smooth and strong, allowing for a secure hold on fish without breaking the line.
- The easy-to-use push button switch and ambidextrous design make this reel accessible to all anglers.
Cons
- The reel can be a bit loud when stripping the line.
- The included line may need to be replaced for a smoother casting experience.
- The handle could be improved for a more comfortable grip.
This fly fishing reel is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and easy-to-use option.
The precision machined aluminum alloy construction provides durability and eliminates any spool wobble, allowing for a smooth and secure drag system. We found the push button switch and ambidextrous design to be convenient and accessible for all anglers.
However, we did notice that the reel can be a bit loud when stripping the line, which could be a drawback for some. Additionally, while the included line is adequate, it may need to be replaced for a smoother casting experience.
Finally, we found that the handle could be improved for a more comfortable grip, especially during longer fishing trips.
Greys Cruise Fly Fishing Reel 7/8
Pros
- The di-cast, machine-finished construction is of exceptional quality and durability.
- The Rulon disc drag system allows for smooth and easy drag adjustments.
- The modern large arbor industrial design provides quick line retrieval and reduces line memory.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the drag tension adjusting knob can be a bit stiff.
- The reel may not be suitable for heavier fish species.
- The reel pouch may not be as durable as expected.
The construction of the reel is top-notch, with a di-cast, machine-finished design that ensures exceptional durability. The Rulon disc drag system also makes it easy to adjust the drag, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience.
Also, the modern large arbor industrial design of the reel provides quick line retrieval and reduces line memory, making it easier to catch fish. The reel is also supplied with a reel pouch, which is a nice touch.
However, some users have reported that the drag tension adjusting knob can be a bit stiff, which may make it difficult to make quick adjustments. The reel may not be suitable for heavier fish species, so it’s important to keep this in mind when considering your options.
While the reel pouch is a nice addition, it may not be as durable as expected.
Buying Guide
When buying the best fly fishing reel, there are several factors to consider. In this section, we will discuss the essential features to look for when choosing a fly fishing reel.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the reel should be appropriate for the size of the rod and the type of fish you plan to catch.
A reel that is too heavy can cause fatigue and make it difficult to cast accurately. On the other hand, a reel that is too light may not be able to handle the weight of the fish you are targeting.
Drag System
The drag system is an essential component of a fly fishing reel. It is responsible for controlling the amount of resistance the fish feels when it pulls on the line.
A good drag system should be smooth and consistent, allowing you to fight the fish without it breaking the line.
Material
The material used to make the reel is also an important consideration.
Most reels are made of aluminum or graphite. Aluminum reels are more durable and can handle heavier fish, while graphite reels are lighter and more affordable.
Arbor Size
The arbor size refers to the diameter of the spool. A larger arbor size will allow you to retrieve the line faster and reduce the amount of memory in the line.
Line Capacity
The line capacity of the reel should be appropriate for the type of fishing you plan to do.
If you plan to fish for larger fish, you will need a reel with a larger line capacity.
Warranty
Finally, it’s important to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer.
A good warranty can give you peace of mind and protect your investment if anything goes wrong with the reel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of investing in an expensive fly fishing reel?
Investing in an expensive fly fishing reel can provide several benefits.
High-end reels are designed with superior materials and precision engineering, which can offer better performance, durability, and longevity than cheaper alternatives.
Additionally, expensive reels usually have more advanced drag systems that can handle larger fish and provide smoother, more consistent drag pressure.
Lastly, high-end reels often have better warranties and customer support, giving you peace of mind and protection for your investment.
How do I choose the best fly reel for my budget?
Choosing the best fly reel for your budget depends on several factors, including your fishing style, target species, and personal preferences.
It’s important to consider the reel’s weight, line capacity, drag system, and construction materials when making your decision.
You should also think about how often you plan to use the reel and what kind of conditions you’ll be fishing in.
If you’re on a tight budget, it’s important to prioritize the features that are most important to you and look for reels that offer the best value for your money.
What characteristics define a high-end fly fishing reel?
High-end fly fishing reels are typically defined by their superior materials, precision engineering, and advanced features.
These reels are often made from lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials like machined aluminum or titanium.
They also tend to have more advanced drag systems, such as sealed carbon fiber or ceramic discs, that can handle larger fish and provide smoother, more consistent drag pressure.
Additionally, high-end reels often have more refined designs and finishes, as well as better warranties and customer support.
Which fly fishing reel size is optimal for trout fishing?
The optimal fly fishing reel size for trout fishing depends on the weight of your fly rod and the size of the trout you’re targeting.
Generally, a 3-5 weight reel is suitable for small to medium-sized trout, while a 6-8 weight reel is better for larger trout or fishing in heavier currents.
It’s important to choose a reel that balances well with your rod and provides enough line capacity for your needs.
How does rod action affect my choice of trout fly reel?
The action of your fly rod can affect your choice of trout fly reel in several ways. A fast-action rod, for example, may require a reel with a stronger drag system. This is needed to handle the increased line speed and power. Conversely, a slow-action rod may require a lighter reel with a more delicate touch. It’s important to choose a reel that complements your rod’s action. Make sure it provides the appropriate level of control and sensitivity for your fishing needs.