10 Best Fly Reels You Must Try This Fishing Season: (Reviewed in 2023)
Overview: In this article, you will get to see our list of 10 best fly fishing reels along with their detailed reviews. You will learn about the factors that everyone should consider before buying fly reels as per your unique requirements.
Choosing a right fishing reel can be a quite overwhelming experience due to the number of its variety, specs, features, settings and above all personal preferences.
But before getting into that, the main question is,
Is it really worth so much attention?
And the answer is,
Hell Yess!
Well, there is no doubt that for fly fishing, a good fly rod is the most critical equipment to get the desired results.
But this is also a fact that your fly rods and reels works as a combination. And if they do not complement each other, it will directly impact the quality of your catches.
Therefore, we have chosen only the best fly reels on the market and have created a detailed guideline that will help you select the right reel for your next fly fishing adventure.
But if you dont want to get into these details and want to go for The Best Fly Reels we have selected for you, then here they are.
Our Pick For The Best Fly Fishing Reels.
Product | DETAILS | OUR RATING |
|---|---|---|
 ORVIS Clearwater Large ArborII | Our #1 Rated 5 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 PISCIFUN Crest Lightweight Fly Fishing Reel | Our #2 Rated 5 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 WATERWORKS LAMSON Liquid 2 Fly Reel | Our #3 Rated 5 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 PISCIFUN Sword Fly Fishing Reel | Our #4 Rated 4.8 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Avid Series Fly Fishing | Our #5 Rated 4.6 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 ISAFISH Fly Fishing Reel | Our #6 Rated 4.5 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 FIBLINK Fly Fishing Reel | Our #7 Rated 4 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 SOUGAYILANG Fly Fishing Reel | Our #8 Rated 4.8 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 MAXCATCH TINO Fly Fishing Reel | Our #9 Rated 4.2 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category | |
 SODIAL(R) Plastic Fly Reel | Our #10 Rated 4.8 out of 5 In The Fly Reels Category |
Critical Features Of Fly Reels You Must Look For.
i, Drag.
This is one of the most critical features to consider in a fly reel. A drag system is sort of a braking system which restricts the free movement of a fish once it gets hooked. A high-quality drag system will not allow even a heavier fish to run away dragging all of the lines.
If you’re someone that doesn’t want to spend a lot of money, you can consider purchasing a click-and-pawl system. If you are willing to pay more money, you should consider buying a disc drag system.
ii, The Diameter of The Arbor.
You may have already noticed that this product has two circles. The outer circle homes the line. The larger it is, the more line your reel will have. The circle in the middle is called the arbor. If you’re a beginner, a smaller arbor is easier to control. On another hand, the large arbor may need a bit more effort to reel in, but you would be able to reel more line per rotation. Plus in a large arbor, the line would have less reel memory. However, there are a lot of other factors to consider for choosing the right arbor.
Low | High | |
|---|---|---|
Skill Level | Small Arbor | Large Arbor |
Water Current | Large Arbor | Small Arbor |
Size of Fish | Large Arbor | Small Arbor |
Cast Distance | Small Arbor | Large Arbor |
iii, Matching Weight.
What it means by this is that the reel and the rod have to have the similar weight. For example, you will find that if the reel is heavier, the rod tip will create an imbalance thus making the casting even more difficult. It might not look like a big thingy but trust me, the torque of a 7-8 feet rod plus line tension plus the weight of the fish, all together it makes a huge difference. To find the right balance, you may hold the rod parallel to the surface and you should not feel any downward pressure either on a tip or at the back of the rod.
iv, Material.
Ideally you want to look for a reel that is made from heavy-duty anodized steel. In addition to this, if the model is coated, it’s a big bonus you can benefit from. This is because you want to ensure that it will not catch rust if you use it mainly in salt water. As well as, metal construction is corrosion resistant and it will make it last for many years to come.
10 Best Fly Reels Reviewed.
1. Orvis Clearwater Large Arbor II.
This model is made out of aluminium and it provides as much as 15% increase in the line retrieval. This means that you no longer have to worry about line memory and lost fish.
It has been designed with a narrow spool in order to provide you with a fast pickup and excellent backing capacity. It features a low tolerance machining with an XL drag knob.
The line stack will be kept in order, so you do not have to create a mess each time you drag a fish out. Moreover, the ergonomic design allows a smooth operation.
Best Features:
1, Ambidextrous.
This means that it allows you to reel with whatever hand you find the most comfortable. You can quickly reverse the sides and the system in case you get hand fatigue.
2, Narrow Spool.
If you are someone that has a difficult time to handle line stacking, you should know that with this model, you will never have to worry. The narrow spool will ensure that the line correctly stacks and the backing is fast.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
This is an excellent product to have if you are serious about your passion. It’s made out of heavy-duty materials and its smart features allow you to have a successful fly fishing trip.
Even though some expected it to be bigger, it doesn’t affect the efficiency. In fact, its size will allow you to take better control of the fish on the line or the rod. Thus, we rate this item a 5 out of 5.
2. Piscifun Crest Lightweight Fly Fishing Reel.
If you are someone that enjoys fly fishing in saltwater, you should choose this model because it has the most practical design.
The U-shaped arbor will ensure rapid line. You will be able to retrieve the fish back fast. The sealed drag retriever is silent and it provides you with an accurate adjustment.
Even though it’s made out of thick aluminium, you will notice that the reel is lightweight. Thus, it’s impossible for your rod to tip.
The greatest thing about it is that you can take full advantage of the lifetime warranty.
Best Features:
1, Drag Performance.
Since it has been made out of carbon combined with stainless steel, it provides a superior and robust drag system. The cork has been created with a multi-disc. This allows a smooth drag of whatever fish species you are pulling out of the water.
2, Fast Disassembling.
The design of it will allow you to change different spools fast and without too much struggle. If you are a learner, this is an excellent feature for you as it will enable you to manoeuvre it with ease and without stress.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
This is a superior model you should thoroughly look into if you are ready to go to the next level. It has a smooth drag operation, it’s silent and the lifetime warranty is an added advantage to anyone regardless of how much money you are willing to spend.
However, the chipped paint can bring down its aesthetic. Nonetheless, it doesn’t have a negative effect on its efficiency. Thus, we rate this model a 5 out of 5.
3. Waterworks Lamson Liquid 2 Fly Reel.
This model has been designed with an excellent roller clutch. This, in turn, provides a superior torque transmission. Thus, you never have to worry about backlash and creating damage to the line.
This model has been recently updated and each feature has been improved. For example, the drag knob provides an easy tuning and adjustment of the reel. The curves have a zero radius inside of the corners. The large arbor makes sure that you can get back large and heavy fishes.
With a fast drag system and a lightweight construction, this reel has a flawless finish that doesn’t chip.
Best Features:
1, Fully Sealed Drag.
This feature ensures that even though if you do not treat it with care, dust and debris will not be able to damage the insides of the arbor. Thus, making it last for many more years. If you are someone that puts great emphasis on the durability, you should know that this a model you should thoroughly consider.
2, Liquid Design.
The zero-radius in the inside corners make it a one-piece reel. This will provide it with strength for a superior linebacking. It has a smooth line stopping so the fish will not get spooked.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
This reel is excellent for those that want a smooth and silent operation. It has been designed to provide you with practical features and it protects the fish from getting spooked by random light flashes.
The backing capacity can reach an impressive area. Thus, you can easily handle heavy and large fish.
Even though it’s bulky, it doesn’t mean that it’s heavy or difficult to control. It’s just for aesthetic purposes. Thus, we rate this model a 5 out of 5.
4. Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel.
The reel is most useful for beginners. The mid arbor design will ensure a more significant line capacity than the larger arbor.
It’s relatively lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about having any difficulty to control it.
It has a concave spool to provide a more efficient strength. Thus, you can confidently use it for different fish species. In addition to this, this also has a positive effect on the line capacity.
Besides disc drag system which is not suitable to use in dirt or saltwater, this is why this model has been designed with a click drag system. Nonetheless, it’s made from high-grade aluminium so it will last for years.
Best Features:
1, Ambidextrous.
Just like the high-end models, this reel has been designed to be used by both hands. Even though when you receive it’s set for the left hand, you can quickly switch it with the easy-to-follow instructions.
2, Design.
Made from a corrosive-resistant material, it has one of the best drag systems, you can confidently use even though you are a novice. It’s resistant to harsh environments and significant periods in humid areas.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
If you want a fast and silent retrieval, this is the model you should consider. It has a sturdy construction that can provide strength and reliability. There’s no hiding the fact that the line capacity is suitable for those that are starting to get into this sport.
Nonetheless, you do have to remember that the adjustment might take some time to get used to. On the other hand, it’s one of the most efficient reel in all waters. Thus, we rate this model a 4.8 out of 5.
5. M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Avid Series Fly Fishing.
The patent-pending drag system ensures that the knob is precise and efficient. As well as, the clutch bearing will ensure that you do not struggle to drag the fish out of the water. It’s created with a mixture of metal and Teflon.
However, this doesn’t add unnecessary weight. It’s lightweight enough not to drag the rod to the sides and it’s ergonomic so you can hold it for the whole day without getting hand fatigue. You can use it in different harsh environments without the dirt or debris ruining its efficiency.
Best Features:
1, Material.
This will provide you with a great balance between how far the line will reach and how fast you retrieve the fish back.
2, Practical Drag.
The greatest thing about this product is the fact that it has a hybrid cork that has been designed from a range of heavy grade materials. The smooth operation is silent and fast. If you are someone that puts a high emphasis on practicality, this model is the most suitable one for you.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
Taking all of this into consideration, it’s clear to see that if you use this model, it’s very likely that you will have a successful trip. It has been made from heavy-duty materials that ensure reliability.
It doesn’t matter in what environment you use it in and how careless you handle it. It’s built to last. However, the handle may hurt your fingers if you like to use it as a free flow. Thus, reducing its practicality. Therefore, we rate this model a 4.6 out of 5
6. Isafish Fly Fishing Reel.
If you have just got into fly fishing, you should seriously consider this reel.
This model comes with the line already set on the arbor, so you do not have to do it. It has a disc drag to reach an excellent backing capacity. It will put a lot of pressure on the fish without you having to put in a too much physical effort.
It has 2 ball bearings and a one-way bearing. This makes it impossible to lose the fish. The dragging will be smooth and straightforward. You can quickly switch between the hands when you need to.
As well as, you can take full advantage of the 5-Years warranty.
Best Features:
1, Silent Operation.
As this hasn’t been created with a click drag system, you will find that it makes a quiet noise almost sounds like a buzz. This is a significant advantage for beginners that need to practice a lot. The click sound starts to get uncomfortable after a while.
2, Versatility.
Even though it’s lightweight, it allows you to draw back a lot of fish species. Thus, you are not limited only to freshwater or saltwater. You can safely work with salmon, bass, and trout.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
In conclusion, this is an excellent fly-reel if you are just starting with this great sport. It offers you reliability for different species, so you do not have to worry about its effectiveness.
In addition to this, it has been made from heavy-duty aluminum, so even if you do not handle it with care, it will not let you down after a few uses. However, the fact that it doesn’t have a lock on the spool, we rate this model a 4.4 out of 5.
7. Fiblink Fly Fishing Reel.
The aluminum construction and disc drag system will put a significant amount of pressure on the fish. This means that you do not have to worry about losing it back into the water. The large arbor will ensure a large line capacity, so you reach maximum speed when retrieving the fish back. Just like the other great fly reel, this one is also ambidextrous. You can easily swap between your hands whenever you need to.
In addition to this, the spool has been designed with a quick release. Therefore, you will find it easy to control it whenever dealing with large fish.
Best Features:
1, Seawater efficiency.
This is an excellent feature not all models offer. Due to the one way bearing, it means that you can confidently fish in saltwater. It’s known that the species in seawater are much larger than those in freshwater.
2, Sealed Drag.
On top of the construction being made out of aluminum, the drag is fully sealed. This means that there is no way for dirt, grit or debris to get inside. Thus, you will have it for many years without experiencing malfunctions.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
If you enjoy fly fishing in saltwater, this is the reel you should consider purchasing. The product has been designed with heavy-duty aluminium, so you do not have to worry about it breaking down. As well as, the drag is fully sealed, so there’s no way for the dirt to get inside and ruin its efficiency.
However, if you are a beginner, it’s best that you consider other reels such as Isafish model because this item doesn’t come with instructions. Thus, we rate this model a 4.4 out of 5.
8. Sougayilang Fly Fishing Reel.
The large arbor will provide you with a high line capacity. You may already be aware, that the larger the arbor, the bigger the line capacity. The ball bearing ensures a smooth rolling because it has a one-way clutch. Thus, it’s suitable to be used on a large variety of fish. For example, you can safely catch salmon and trout.
The sturdy aluminum built has been made out of corrosion-resistant coating so it will never pick rust and its efficiency will not decrease. The aesthetic of this reel is unreal, and it will definitely set you apart from the rest.
Best Features:
1, Retrieval.
This model has been designed with such an excellent backing capacity that you can go after a large variety of fish. You do not have to limit yourself just to the common species. With this model, you can also go after the marine was as well. For example, tarpon and bonefish.
2, Large Arbor.
The most significant feature of this item is the size of its arbor. Since it’s so big, you get a large choice of fish that you can immediately retrieve. The operation is silent and smooth as you have an extensive line capacity.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
Taking all of this into consideration, this is another excellent reel choice when you are fly fishing for a number of species. Regardless if it’s freshwater or saltwater. In addition to this, if you are someone that likes a fast retrieval, you should look into this product. The large arbor will ensure that the line doesn’t get tangled and that it provides you with a smooth operation.
However, please do bear in mind that you can hurt yourself as in some cases it has been reported that the metal hasn’t been smoothed out. Therefore, we rate this model a 4.2 out of 5.
9. Maxcatch TINO Fly Fishing Reel.
Tino reel has been made from aluminum with a large arbor. Another model that will ensure a fast backing capacity.
The disc drag system will be able to bring the fish to shore by putting maximum pressure on it. The fish will not be able to escape and you will bring it back fast without too much physical effort.
The one-way bearing will ensure that you can use in saltwater and on large fish. Even though it has been made from a heavy grade material, it’s lightweight enough, so you do not have to worry about a tipped rod. This model will not decrease the functionality of the rod.
Best Features:
1, Material.
Even though the reel has been made from aluminum, the disc has been made from Teflon. This will ensure a superior drag system and it will make it reliable to catch fish species such as Grayling and Trout.
2, One-way Bearing.
The backing capacity of this model will make sure that the retrieval is straightforward and fast. As it has been designed with a one-way bearing, it means that you have to option of using it with both of your hands.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
If you are not willing to spend a lot of money on a reel, you should thoroughly consider this model. It has a large arbor which means a maximum line capacity. The greatest thing about it is the fact that the line has come pre-loaded. This means that if you’re a beginner, this product is another suitable one for you.
The metal is weather-proof which means that you do not have to worry about its efficiency even if you continuously use it in harsh weather conditions. However, since the spool hasn’t got a quick release, it does bring down its reliability. Therefore, we rate this model a 4.0 out of 5.
10. SODIAL(R) Plastic Fly Reel.
If you’re someone that isn’t interested in spending a lot of money on a reel. This is the most suitable model you should look into. This product has been made from industry leading plastic. It has a one-way ball bearing and a gear ratio of 1:1. It’s ambidextrous which means that you can easily exchange it between the hands. As it hasn’t been made out of metal, it’s unlikely that you will experience hand fatigue. The greatest thing about it is the fact that you can use it for ice fishing or raft fishing as well.
Best Features:
1, Lightweight.
As it has been made from plastic which makes it lightweight. In addition to this, you will find that both of these will work in harmony and balance, so you have a successful fly fishing trip.
2, Versatility.
While it’s not advisable to use it for large fish species, you can use it for vertical crappie fishing, for ice fishing, and for raft fishing. For a minimal price, you will feel like you have the freedom to choose and not be limited just to freshwater or saltwater.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion.
If you are just starting your journey for fly fishing, you should know that this is a great option that you should consider. This fly reel is the cheapest out of all of the items mentioned and it still provides excellent features. With it, you will not feel limited and you will still be able to have a successful fly fishing trip.
Nonetheless, the fact that the plastic doesn’t absorb impact, it does mean that if you mistreat it, it will break. Thus, we rate this model a 4.0 out of 5.
Final Verdict.
Every time we try to compare different fly reels together, it almost felt like we are comparing apples with oranges.
This is because there are so many factors to look for when you compare them, like different weights, arbor size, size of the spool, drags and etc. that it was almost impossible for us.
So even if we have to compare them just for the sake of it, that best way was to assess their value for money you spend.
And based on it this what we come up with;
Best Fly Fishing Reel Under $10
A great Fly reel to start your new passion with. Despite its very low price and very much workable and we found it the best value for the money. Though it has some limitations like a high chance of getting damaged on impact, no pre-loaded line, no so effective drag, etc. But it will definitely catch you some on nearby local lake and stream.
Best Fly Fishing Reel Under $50
An excellent reel option under 50 bucks. the best thing about it is:
- It's Lightweight.
- It has Large Arbor.
- Smooth Rolling.
If you give few bonus points for the steel drag and looks, I think this reel can easily beat it's famous branded competitors with less then half of their price.
Best Fly Fishing Reel Under $100
Truly a fly reel that is built to last but also to perform at its best every time you load it in.
This reel has been engineered to perfection.
The sealed drag and zero radius design guarantee not only smooth operations but also less deterioration even after rough use.
Best Fly Fishing Reel For Salt Water
Not Taking away any of its remarkable capability of fishing in fresh waters, we fond this exceptionally great for fish seawater as well.
And what makes it so great is an excellent drag for all the big games, compete sealed mechanics for exceptional performance in the saltwater bigger spool and U-shaped arbor for the quick lining. Lightweight, large arbor and lifetime warranty. All of this combined it make this reel a solid rockstar over sea.
Thanks for staying till here, for further reviews and any questions regarding fishing gear please comment below,
Cheers.
