The Best Fly Reels for a Better Fishing Experience
Imagine standing in the middle of a river, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, as you cast your fly rod into the water. You feel a tug on the line, and you quickly reel in your catch, but your excitement is short-lived when the fish pulls your line and snaps it. This frustrating experience is not uncommon for anglers who use subpar fly fishing gear, especially when it comes to fly reels. A high-quality fly reel can make all the difference in successfully landing fish, from its weight and design to its durability and texture.
With so many different types of fly reels available, it can be overwhelming for a beginner angler to choose the right one. That's why we've compiled a list of the top fly reels of 2024 to help you take your fly fishing game to the next level.
Our Top Picks
Comparing the Top Fly Reels of 2024 in Detail
Best Overall
The Piscifun Fly Reel is a top-of-the-line fly reel designed to provide anglers with a lightweight and corrosion-resistant reel. It’s constructed with aluminum alloy and offers high-impact durability and reduced weight thanks to its larger CNC hollow design. This reel is also hard anodized for increased surface protection and weather fastness, while a cold-forged and tempered construction provides superior strength and rigidity.
In addition, it features a multi-disc premium carbon and stainless steel drag system that provides silky smooth drag with a one-way clutch bearing for immediate engagement. It also comes with accurate click drag and silent retrieve, making this reel ideal for even the most difficult fishing situations. Its mid-arbor design reduces line memory so that you can pick up line quickly, allowing for faster and more efficient fishing. Its lightweight, durable construction, corrosion resistance properties, multiple colors, and dependable drag system make this product the best on our list.
Pros
- Lightweight and balanced rod
- Smooth spool turns with no wobble
- Provides consistent drag without changing settings
Cons
- Drag is not user-friendly
Most Vibrant Colors
The M MAXIMUMCATCH Fly Reel is a great power reel for those looking to get into fly fishing. It’s built with an all-aluminum construction, making it tough and durable yet still lightweight and easy to handle. Its big arbor design allows for quick line retrieval, and the disc drag is powerful enough to exert significant pressure on fish. A one-way bearing facilitates a quick and simple hand switch from left to right.
Even better, this reel also has several features that make it stand out from other models in its price range. It’s pre-loaded with fly line, backing, and leader, eliminating the need to buy separate accessories. Additionally, its aesthetically pleasing design makes it a great addition to any tackle box. Its disc drag system allows for precise control over the pressure applied to the fish, and its one-way bearing allows for quick and easy line retrieval. Its sturdy and corrosion-resistant structure makes it ideal for use in various settings. Also, it comes in multiple colors so you can choose one that meets your style. Its strong aluminum construction provides durability, while its pre-loaded fly line reduces setup time and makes it even easier to get started on your next adventure!
Pros
- Comes with fly line pre-spooled
- Drag knob has a nice subtle click
- Attractive design and easy to assemble
Cons
- Spool does not spin freely
Most Rigor-Resistant Finish
Combining advanced design with top-of-the-line components, the Redington Fly Reel delivers exceptional performance to freshwater and saltwater anglers alike. Its innovative die-cast construction, complete with an interlocking large-arbor spool layout, ensures a smooth and reliable run that is unmatched in its class. No matter if you’re wielding a 5-weight trout rod or a big-game saltwater setup, this reel offers both power and dependability.
But that’s not all — the heavy-duty carbon fiber drag package provides maximum strength and reliability, ensuring no fish will get the better of you. Thanks to its large arbor, quick line retrieval, and reduced line memory, this reel guarantees a seamless fishing experience. Add to that the ergonomic twin-molded handle with its soft-tough grip, and you have a tailor-made reel for taking on even the largest and most challenging fish. When it comes to versatility and performance, this fly reel is the perfect choice for any angler seeking the ultimate fishing experience.
Pros
- Features a big handle and drag knob
- Powerful drag is long-lasting
- No slippage on the handle during use
Cons
- Drag system isn’t sealed
Most Durable
The Sougayilang Fly Reel is not just any ordinary fishing reel — it’s a dependable companion that will elevate your angling game to new heights. Designed with precision, this reel is crafted with CNC-machined aluminum alloy that promises durability and resistance against corrosive elements, ensuring that it’ll stand the test of time.
But what sets this reel apart is its larger CNC hollow design, which not only makes it lightweight but also enhances its performance. With ball bearings and a gear ratio, the Sougayilang Fly Reel offers seamless drag engagement and silent retrieval, ensuring you don’t miss any crucial bites. And if you prefer to switch from left to right-hand retrieve, the precisely machined and knurled metal screw caps make it a breeze. Whether fishing in freshwater or saltwater, this fly reel will exceed your expectations. The fly reel’s hard anodized surface protection and cold-forged and tempered construction make it an ideal choice for fly fishing for various species, including trout, salmon, grayling, and other predatory fish. With its superior strength and rigidity, you can trust that this reel will provide exceptional performance every time you cast your line.
Pros
- Minimal machine marks in the finish
- Anti-reverse is close to instant
- Easy to change retrieved side without tools
Cons
- Handle has slight up-and-down play
Most Convenient
The ANGLER DREAM Fly Reel with line combo is not just another fishing gear — it’s the perfect choice for both seasoned and newbie anglers who demand exceptional quality and convenience. Crafted with aluminum alloy, this reel is built to last and can withstand the rigors of frequent use. But that’s not all — the large arbor design of the reel allows for quick spool release, while the left-to-right-hand retrieve change feature provides versatility and ease of use.
The Teflon disc and aluminum alloy drag system with a one-way ball bearing further enhances the reel’s performance by ensuring accurate clicks and silent retrieves. You won’t have to worry about missed bites or spooking fish with this exceptional drag system. Plus, the pre-loaded floating line, backing line, leader, and combo line will save you valuable time and effort, allowing you to spend more time on the water doing what you love — fishing. The fly reel with line combo is a true gem that ticks all the boxes. Its sturdy construction, ease of use, and exceptional performance make it an excellent choice for any angler looking to level up their game.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Quicker retrieve and smoother drag start-up
- Comes with left or right-hand retrieve option
Cons
- Eventually, the line pulls off backward
Buying Guide: Fly Reels
Having a high-quality fly reel is an absolute must for those who are passionate about fly fishing. It’s an essential piece of equipment that can make or break your fishing experience. Not only does it help you to cast more accurately and efficiently, but it can also provide you with the control you need to reel in that big catch.
But with various options available on the market, finding the perfect fly reel can be a daunting task. Fear not! Our buying guide will help you navigate the options and choose the perfect fly reel for your needs. With our expert guidance, you can rest assured that you are making a wise investment that will take your fly fishing game to the next level.
Reel Size
The reel size should be chosen based on the type of fishing you are doing and the fish you hope to catch. If you are targeting smaller fish, such as panfish or trout, you don’t need a larger reel. For larger fish like salmon or tuna, you will need something bigger. So always consider how much line capacity is necessary for your type of fishing and choose accordingly.
Drag System
This feature is important for making sure the reel performs well over time. A good drag system should be adjustable and provide smooth operation. Always look for reels with smooth disc drag systems or click-drag systems that can easily be adjusted and offer precise control when fighting large game fish.
Material
Another important feature to consider when purchasing the fly reel is the material it’s made from. Aluminum is often used in lower-priced reels and is generally lightweight and resistant to corrosion in saltwater environments. Graphite reels are more durable than aluminum ones, but they may be heavier. Always opt for a fly reel made from material that lasts longer and is comfortable for you to carry.
Weight
When selecting your fly reel, look for one that won’t become too heavy when casting or retrieving a line during long days out on the water. The lighter weight will help minimize fatigue while maintaining a strong grip on the line.
Line Capacity
Always choose a reel based on its line capacity and what type of fly fishing you plan to do with it. Different species call for different amounts of backing and line weight, so make sure you pick a reel that has enough capacity to hold all of your gear.
Durability
Higher-quality fly reels use high-grade construction and components designed to last season after season, so look for these features in any reel you purchase. Look for sealed drag systems with components made from stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant materials for optimal performance in harsh environments.
Design
The overall shape and design of a fly reel also play an important role in the fishing experience and comfort level while out on the water, so make sure to consider this when making a final decision.
Spool Types
Also, check what types of spools are compatible with your chosen fly reel model ahead of time, as some require specific types while others accept all available sizes and styles of spools available on the market today.
People Also Asked
What are the benefits of using a fly reel?
Using a fly reel for fishing helps you improve precision and accuracy when casting, increase line capacity, allow for more casts and longer fights, and increased retrieval rates for quicker catches. Additionally, many fly reels come with adjustable drag systems that make adjusting the tension on the line easier and more precise.
How do I choose the right size for the fly reel?
Fly reels are typically sized based on the weight of the line they are intended to cast. Generally, heavier lines will require larger reels. Additionally, the reel size should be proportional to the size of your rod and your personal style of casting. Fly reels are available in a range of sizes, from small to large, so it's important to consider your own preferences when selecting the right size for you.
How much should I expect to pay for a quality fly reel?
The price of a quality fly reel can vary depending on several factors, such as materials used in construction and features offered by the manufacturer. Generally, you should expect to pay anywhere from $75 up to $350 or more for a quality fly reel, depending on your needs and preferences.
What types of lines should I use with a fly reel?
Generally, monofilament or copolymer lines are most commonly used with fly reels as they offer good knot strength and do not easily stretch or tear when casting long distances or fighting larger fish species. Fluorocarbon lines can also be used but tend to be more expensive and have less stretch than other lines commonly used with fly reels.
Can I use a fly reel for other types of fishing besides fly fishing?
While fly reels are specifically designed for fly fishing, they can also be used for other types of fishing, depending on the size and capacity of the reel. For instance, smaller fly reels can be used for light spinning and ultralight fishing applications, such as catching panfish or trout. But, it's important to note that fly reels typically have a much slower retrieval rate than spinning reels, which can make them less effective for certain types of fishing. Additionally, fly reels may not be suitable for use with heavier fishing lines or lures.