Fly Fishing Reels - What Should You Look For?

Fly Fishing Reels don’t have to be expensive, and you might find that the most basic is the most appropriate for your needs. For the majority of anglers, it’s not essential to buy the lightest, or the most expensive reel you can find.

Reels are available in two types, with the spool enclosed, or with the rim exposed. There is a mechanism that controls the line from the reel, and prevents the line from being paid out too fast. The majority of reels have a ratchet system, but the more expensive have a silent disc brake, which can be adjusted for even more control.

The weight of the reel is important, especially if you are going to be stood in the water all day. Magnesium is used for the lightest reels, but it is expensive. Plastic, carbon fibre and metals are also used, and are less expensive than magnesium. Not everybody will want the lightest reels, as if they are used with a very lightweight rod, they can upset the balance of the rod. The reel should also be compatible and work well with the fishing rod and other fishing tackle you are using.

Most anglers will look for a single action reel, which means that each turn of the handle will turn the spool once. Multiplying reels are geared so that each turn of the handle will turn the spool twice. These fishing reels are more complicated, and will need more maintenance to keep them working well.

Depending on the type of fishing you do, you might have different requirements for your reel. If you fish for trout just a few times a year, and mainly wind the line in by hand, having an expensive, and complicated multiplying reel, might not the best option for you. However, if you fish for salmon as often as you can get out, and spend a lot of time in the water, you might want to spend more on your reel.

No matter whether you choose a basic reel or an expensive reel, you will want to make sure that it lasts, and works properly when you need it to. Basic care and maintenance will help to ensure that your reel will last a long time, and not need replacing within a short time. To help prolong the life of your reel, it is advisable to keep it in a protective bag or box. This means that even if your reel ends up at the bottom of your fishing tackle box, it won’t get damaged.