Howdy, fly anglers! Let’s talk about one of the most essential pieces of fly fishing kit: The fly reel.
What Does a Fly Reel Do?
The fly reel may not be the star player on your fly fishing team, but it's still a critical component.
Here's what it does:
Stores Your Line: Your fly reel is where you keep your 80-foot fly line and usually at least 100 yards of backing.
Retrieves Line: Whether you're winding up to go home or pulling in a big catch, the reel retrieves your line.
Provides Resistance: Known as 'drag,' the reel helps to slow down a fish when it tries to swim away.
Types of Fly Reels
How It's Made: Cast vs. Machined
Cast Reels: These are typically made by pouring hot molten aluminum into a mold. They're usually less expensive but may not withstand extreme conditions or high-stress situations.
Machined Reels: These are carved from a block of aerospace-grade aluminum. They're more durable and better suited for high-stress fishing scenarios.
Types of Drag Systems
Click Drag: These reels offer minimal resistance and are generally fine for fishing smaller species like trout or bluegill.
Disc Drag: Most modern reels feature a disc drag system, offering adjustable, efficient resistance. They can be further classified based on the material used for the disc—plastic, cork, or carbon fiber.
The Buzz Around Arbor Size
Standard Arbor: These reels have a smaller 'spindle' around which the line is wound.
Large Arbor: These have a larger spindle, allowing you to retrieve the line more quickly. If you're fishing for bigger, faster fish, a large arbor reel is beneficial.
Sealed vs. Non-Sealed Drags
Sealed Drag: The drag mechanism is entirely enclosed, making it impervious to water, sand, and grit.
Non-Sealed Drag: The drag mechanism is exposed, but it's easy to clean and maintain.
What Reel Should You Choose?
As a beginner, here's a simple guideline—get the best reel you can afford. Most of your entry-level reels will have plastic or Delrin disc drags, which are fine to start with. If you can afford better, go for cork or carbon fiber. Similarly, while a machined reel is more durable, a cast reel is perfectly acceptable for many types of fishing. Arbor size and whether the reel has a sealed drag system are less critical for beginners.
Remember, your choice of fly line, leader, and flies are far more crucial to your success on the water than the reel. However, understanding the role and types of reels can help you make a more informed decision.
Don't forget to watch the full series on our YouTube channel to get comprehensive guidance on starting your fly fishing journey.
