The reel used for fly fishing is called a fly reel. Unlike a spinning or baitcasting reel, it is designed primarily to store fly line and backing, support line management, and help control a hooked fish. The rod and weighted fly line do most of the work during the cast; the reel is not intended to propel the fly in the same way as a conventional fishing reel.
What makes a fly reel different?
A fly reel has a relatively simple design. It holds the fly line on a spool, provides a handle for retrieving line, and includes a drag system that applies resistance when a fish runs. Many reels also hold backing, which provides additional line if a strong fish takes out the entire fly line.
Fly reels are generally classified by the line weight and fishing conditions they are designed to handle. A lightweight reel may suit small freshwater streams, while a larger, stronger reel is more appropriate for heavier lines, larger fish, or saltwater use.
The main types of fly reel
Single-action reels
Single-action reels are the standard choice for most fly fishing. One turn of the handle rotates the spool once, giving the angler a direct and predictable way to retrieve line. Their straightforward construction makes them lightweight, easy to maintain, and suitable for a wide range of freshwater fishing.
For many anglers, a single-action reel is the best starting point because it performs the essential jobs without unnecessary complexity.
Click-and-pawl reels
A click-and-pawl reel uses a mechanical system to create drag pressure and the familiar clicking sound associated with traditional fly fishing reels. These reels are valued for their simplicity and light weight. They can be a good fit when targeting smaller fish that do not require substantial drag pressure.
Because their resistance is more limited than that of many modern disc-drag designs, they are less suitable when powerful fish are likely to make long, fast runs.
Disc-drag reels
Disc-drag reels use friction between internal discs to provide smoother and more adjustable resistance. This design is commonly chosen for larger fish, heavier line weights, and situations where consistent pressure is important.
A disc drag should start smoothly and allow useful adjustment while the fish is running. It should not be tightened so much that the line or leader is more likely to break during a sudden movement.
How to choose the correct reel size
The reel should be matched to the fly rod and fly line, usually by line-weight rating. For example, a reel intended for a light line should balance appropriately with a light rod, while a heavier setup needs a reel with enough capacity for the line and backing.
When choosing a size, consider:
- Rod and line weight: The reel should be rated for the same general range as the rest of the outfit.
- Backing capacity: Larger or faster fish may require more backing space.
- Balance: A reel that is too heavy or too light can make the rod less comfortable to use.
- Fishing environment: Saltwater and rough conditions call for durable, corrosion-resistant construction and careful maintenance.
Exact sizing labels vary between manufacturers, so the reel’s stated line range and backing capacity are more useful than relying on a number alone.
Important features to look for
Reliable drag adjustment
The drag should provide steady resistance and be easy to adjust. This helps manage tension when a fish changes direction or runs away from the angler. A larger target species generally benefits from a more robust drag than a small stream fish.
Strong, practical construction
Aluminum and other durable materials are commonly used where strength and resistance to wear are important. Lightweight composite materials can reduce overall weight, but the best choice depends on the size of the fish and the conditions in which the reel will be used.
Suitable spool design
The spool should provide enough room for the selected fly line and backing. A design that allows quick line removal can also be convenient when changing lines or performing maintenance.
Care and maintenance
Rinse the reel with clean, fresh water after fishing, especially following exposure to saltwater. Remove dirt and grit, dry the reel thoroughly, and store it somewhere cool and dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lubricating moving parts and servicing the drag rather than applying excess oil where it could affect the drag mechanism.
Before each trip, check that the spool turns freely, the drag adjusts smoothly, and the line is not trapped or damaged. With the correct size and a dependable drag, a fly reel provides effective line control without adding unnecessary weight or complexity to the outfit.