Are you trying to find fly reels among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling fly reels on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 28 hours of research and did 41 fly reels tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best fly reels you can buy today
- Solid & Lightweight: Precision CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy for exceptional impact resistance. The larger CNC hollow design reduces weight while maintaining durability
- Silky Smooth Drag: Equipped with a multi-disc premium carbon and stainless steel drag system, featuring a one-way clutch bearing for instant drag engagement. Enjoy precise click-drag adjustment and a silent, seamless retrieve
- Corrosion-Resistant & Durable: Hard-anodized surface treatment enhances abrasion and weather resistance. Cold-forged and tempered for superior strength and rigidity
- Mid-Arbor Design: Minimizes line memory and enables ultra-fast line pickup for improved performance
- Retrieve Configuration & Support: Factory preset for left-hand retrieve. Easily convertible to right-hand retrieve upon request. If you need assistance, contact us for expert support
- Outstanding Value: Designed for beginners while still remaining advanced enough for an angler's backup
- Polished Die-cast Construction: Strong and Durable All-aluminum construction, large arbor design for rapid line retrieval
- Teflon Disc and Stainless Steel Drag System: Rugged disc drag for putting serious pressure on the fish
- One-way Bearing: For quick and easy left-to-right hand retrieval switch
- Pre-loaded with Weight forward floating fly line, backing and leader
- PERFORMANCE MEETS VALUE: Fish with your right hand and navigate with your left. The Pflueger Automatic fly reel offers versatile one-handed operation to free up your grip for paddles or poles.
- SIZE 44385, 11.2 OZ. FLY REEL: Features an aluminum alloy frame and spool for a lightweight, corrosion-resistant fly fishing reel.
- HAUL IN EVERYTHING: Keep your eye on the prize with this reel featuring a line trigger that winds with a quick, simple pull to prevent any tangles or headaches.
- EASY TO OPERATE: Adjust to any circumstances in moments with a reel that is designed to help you handle every fly fishing situation in stride.
- FOR EVERY DAY OUT: No matter what environment you find yourself in, this reel is ready to work. Smoothly bring in your line in a flash, and get it back out in the water just as fast to maximize your catch.
- BEHEMOTH FLY REEL: Combines the most powerful drag in its class with stunning aesthetics that push the limits of fly reel design. Sized for your favorite 5-weight trout rod, and all the way up to saltwater ready, big-game sizes.
- QUALITY DESIGN: The unique, un-machinable, die-cast construction is coupled with a durable, interlocking, large-arbor spool design that both looks and functions like a premium reel.
- HEAVY DUTY DRAG: A super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag package brings the utmost in drag strength, reliability and performance to the family.
- EASY RETRIEVE: The large arbor is designed for speedy line retrieval and reduced line memory. Twin molded handle with soft-tough ergonomic grip gives you great feedback when pulling in larger species of fish.
- BACKING CAPACITY: [5/6] 125 yards / 20 lb, [7/8] 200 yards / 20 lb, [9/10] 200 yards / 30 lb, [11/12] 250 yards / 20 lb
- ULTIMATE CONTROL: The Martin Caddis Creek fly reel is a size 6/5 single action fishing reel that is designed with a changeable right- or left-hand retrieve to fit both right-handed and left-handed anglers, and rim control that provides a place for the angler to manually control the drag
- DURABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT: Engineered with an aluminum frame for added durability and a lightweight aluminum spool so you can enjoy many fishing adventures with ease for years to come
- PRECISION CASTING: Featuring a metal click drag with an on/off control and push-button release that alerts you when the line is coming off the reel and to control the speed at which the line comes off of the reel
- VERSATILE USE: With a fly line capacity of 30-yards WF6F and the ability to hold up to 50-yards of 20-pound backing, this reel is perfect for catching light species such as panfish and trout
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
- 1. Comprehensive Combo: Our matte black 3/4 wt fly reel comes with everything you need, including a WF5F-90FT fly line in fluorescent yellow, 20LB-50M backing in orange, and a 9FT-4X tapered leader in clear.
- Large Arbor: The large arbor design is helpful for quick line retrieval.
- Anti-Corrosion: The reel body is made of durable aluminum alloy and adopts surface anti-corrosion treatment. And the metal parts of the main shaft and fishing power adjustment structure are made of stainless steel.
- Advantages: Easy left-hand to right-hand retrieval and disc drag can put serious pressure on the fish.
- Clear Ticking Alarm: Keep track of your line with our audible alarm, which lets you know when the line is exiting the reel.
- NEW for 2018!This fly reel is made of CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy,that made it more durable and corrosion resistant in all environment.larger CNC hollow design makes the reel lighter than ordinary ones.
- 2+1 Ball Bearings and 1:1 Gear Ratio, One-way roller bearing engages drag in one direction,Strong All-aluminum construction, Large arbor design for smooth immediate drag engagement accurate click drag and silent retrieve.
- Finely machined and knurled metal screw caps to loosen the spool and easy to change left to right hand retrieval conversion.Hard anodized for surface protection increases abrasion resistance and weather fastness; Cold forged and tempered for superior strength and rigidity.
- A killer freshwater fly reel for multi-species fishing in rivers, lakes, streams, creeks.，Ideal for all around fly fishing species such as Trout, Grayling, Salmon and other predatory fish.
- FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY!If Any Problem about The Product,Please Contact Us Firstly and Our Customer Service Will Solve It for You Soon.Your reel has been set at the factory for left-hand retrieve. If you want convert your reel to right-hand retrieve, please contact us for guidance.
- STRONG AND LIGHTWEIGHT: All Precision CNC-machined from aluminum alloy for durability, with a large spool design for quick take-up
- CORROSION RESISTANT: Hard anodized surface protection for enhanced wear and weather resistance. Cold forged and tempered for excellent strength and stiffness
- SMOOTH DRAG: Experience silky smooth drag with the multi-disc premium carbon steel and stainless steel drag system, with a freewheel bearing that engages the drag immediately. Enjoy precise clicking resistance and silent retrieve
- EASY RETRIEVAL: Large spool design allows for quick retrieval and reduces line memory. Dual-molded handle is ergonomically designed for a soft, firm grip and provides excellent feedback when tugging on larger fish
- Exquisite appearance: the new fly reel adopts gradient colorful appearance design, whether for your own use or as a present for others is a good choice, at the same time can easily realize the left and right hand interchangeable to adapt to your hand habits
- VALUE - Get the most out of your set up, 3-Packs include 1 complete reel with 2 additional spools in a padded travel case. Mix and match line weight for different rods on one reel, or use a variety of lines like floating/intermediate/sinking etc. to be effective on the water as conditions change.
- LIQUID DESIGN - Fully Pressure Cast aluminum frame and spool for unique designs that aren't possible with traditional CNC machines. These reels are lightweight and durable and feature a full frame HD design for extra protection.
- SMOOTH STRONG CONICAL DRAG - Our proprietary sealed conical drag system offers a smooth, broad range of drag with plenty of power on the high end. The sealed drag helps keep water and debris out to ensure the drag is protected in any environment. Large easy grip drag knob.
- LARGE ARBOR - Ensure quick line pick up, and minimize line memory so your leader and lines don't get coiled. Plenty of room for backing capacity and neat line management.
- APPLICATION - HD/Full frame reels are ideal for Euro and Tight line Nymphing tactics, Spey and Switch setups. These frames are also very useful for Saltwater fish that make long runs into your backing. 3-Packs offer the most versatility.
- 🎣【Complete 5/6 weight Fly Rods Kit】- 4 piece fly rod , a large arbor reel, preinstalled line, a fly box, flies, and a lightweight rod case with a zippered storage pouch. It's the best gift to send father, son, husband, fiancé, boyfriend.
- 🎣【Premium Performance Fly Pole】 - The mid flex IM8 graphite fly rod comes with stainless steel stripper guide which reduces friction and heat, and won't harm the fish line. It’s also made up of adjustable CNC aluminum reel seat which effectively avoids loose swing phenomenon on fishing. The western-style grip made with compressed cork trim rings helps casting accuracy and avoids fatigue.
- 🎣【Diecast Aluminum Fly Reel】 - Durable aluminum construction and spool, Gear ratio is 1:1. One-way only roller bearing system, Ball Bearings: 2+1BB. Superior Teflon disk drag design, Line Weight: 5/6 External Dia: 2-9/10", Net Weight: 5.2 oz. Pre-loaded 20lb 98ft backing, weight forward 6-weight floating 100ft fly line, and 9ft 3X leader.
- 🎣【Floating Fly Flies Box and Carrier Bag】 - The Beginner Fly Flies Box is composed of waterproof fly box and 20 flies. The study rod case with a zippered storage pouch holds everything you need for fly fishing. It's easy to carry anywhere. It's the best fishing kit suited for trout, pan fish, small streams, ponds, and backpacking.
- 🎣 【Best Gifts Choice】: It's the best father day gifts to any beginner or addictive anglers. Special for Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, Father's Day, Valentine's Day ect.
- OUTSTANDING COST EFFECTIVE VALUE – this reel incorporates all of the features of reels that costing much more money. Without break the bank and you can stop any fish smoothly. We just wish to bring the experience of Fly fishing to more people
- Strong and Durable All-aluminum construction with CNC cutting for reinforcement, Large arbor design for rapid line retrieval
- Rugged disc drag for putting serious pressure on the fish.Teflon disc and stainless steel drag system with one-way clutch bearing allow for smooth, immediate drag engagement
- One-way bearing for quick and easy left-to-right hand retrieval switch with no tools needed in 30 seconds
- Pre-loaded with WF fly line, backing line and tapered leader
- RUN FLY REEL: The Redington RUN fly fishing reel will change the way you think about lightweight trout reels.
- RELIABLE DRAG SYSTEM: Its compact carbon fiber drag is smooth and reliable in all types of environments. So, no matter if you’re chasing trout in Montana or find yourself stalking tailing reds during the flood tide, the RUN fly reel is lite on weight not feature.
- LARGE ARBOR: The RUN fly reel features a large arbor deisng allowing for quick retrieval to keep pressure on the fish, no matter how hard the fight is.
- DURABLE DESIGN: It's durable, non-machinable die-cast aluminum construction features a unique ported arbor on the inner barrel of the spool for inreased durability and decreased weight
- EASY RETRIEVE: The twin-molded soft-touch ergonomic handle offers supreme grip and control in all fishing conditions. Easily converts from left to right hand retrieve.
- ZERO FLY REEL: The Redington ZERO fly fishing reel sets a new standard for lightweight performance designed for Trout fishing.
- CLICKER DRAG: The spring-loaded clicker drag system is designed to provide smooth resistance on those screaming runs.
- LARGE ARBOR: The ZERO fly reel features a large arbor designed for speedy line retrieval and reduced line memory.
- DURABLE DESIGN: Crafted with durable die-cast construction for a lightweight design with quick-change spool.
- EASY RETRIEVE: The soft-touch, twin-molded dual density handle offers supreme grip and control in all fishing conditions.
- Compact and lightweight, easy to remove and install
- Adjustable Spool Width Control / Spring-loaded tension ensures even spooling
- The Suction Cup at the bottom could adsorb on any smooth surface, especially on glass material with water on
- Note: Piscifun Braided Fishing Line is not included
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
- FLY FISHING COMBO includes: ONE Fly Rod(9 ft, 5/6 weight, 4 pc rod),ONE Fly Reel(size:5/6), 100 FT Fly Line, backing and leader, ONE rod case, ONE fly box, 12 PCS flies,spare leader, zinger and nipper,ONE Carrier Case,Very easy to carry aroud
- THE ROD: 4 sections designed medium fast action fly fishing rods, fly rods made from carbon fiber, durable and extra light weight, Metal adjustable fishing reels seat, texture, simple and firm.Mid flex IM8 graphite design, aluminum reel seat, stainless steel stripper guide with SiC ring, stainless steel single foot snake guides and hook keeper. 7” western-style grip made with high quality cork and compressed cork trim rings helps casting accuracy,avoids fatigue
- THE REEL: This fly reel is made of CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy,larger CNC hollow design makes the reel lighter than ordinary ones.2+1 Ball Bearings and 1:1 Gear Ratio, One-way roller bearing engages drag in one direction,Strong All-aluminum construction
- The combo includes everything that you will need to start fly fishing: A convenient zippered case helps you carry everything when you go fishing. Freshwater fly reel for multi-species fishing in rivers, lakes, streams, creeks.，Ideal for all around fly fishing species such as Trout, Grayling, Salmon and other predatory fish
- FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY: If Any Problem about The Product,Please Contact Us Firstly and Our Customer Service Will Solve It for You Soon.Your reel has been set at the factory for left-hand retrieve. If you want convert your reel to right-hand retrieve, please contact us for guidance
- Please note: There are two types of products (differentiated in the size options and first picture), one includes pre-installed fly line, backing and leader, and the other is a separate reel.
- Classic Design: Crafted with robust all-aluminum construction, featuring a large spindle design for swift line retrieval. The solid disc drag system can exert substantial pressure on fish.
- Sturdy All-Aluminum Construction: Enhance durability and corrosion resistance in various environments with the rugged all-aluminum construction.
- Ergonomic Excellence: Designed with ergonomic considerations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.
- Three-Year Warranty: Your reel is factory-set for left-hand retrieval. Should you wish to convert it to right-hand retrieval or encounter any issues with our product, please reach out to us for expert guidance. We stand behind our product with a three-year warranty, prioritizing your satisfaction.
- DURABLE CORROSION RESISTANCE: CNC-machined 6061-T8 aluminum alloy for high-impact durability and Hard Anodized Surface for corrosion resistance under all conditions
- Patent Pending DRAG DESIGN: One revolution drag knob with Patent Pending hidden drag knob screw. Engraved with numbered settings
- SMOOTH and RELIABLE DRAG: Hybrid cork and teflon disc and stainless steel disc drag system with one-way clutch bearing provides smooth, immediate drag engagement. Finely machined and knurled metal screw caps can loosen the spool and easily change settings from left to right hand retrieval
- SUPER LARGE ARBOR SPOOL and Super Light housing design: 36% increased line retrieve per revolution. And also reduced line memory. Reinforced spokes cutting for lightest weight while strong enough for fighting the monsters
- Finely machined and knurled metal screw caps can loosen the spool and easily change settings from left to right hand retrieval
- HVCE fly fishing reel from Aventik, HVCE Fly Reel Pre-loaded with WF4F fly line, backing line, tapered leader
- OUTSTANDING COST EFFECTIVE VALUE: Aventik C-III, Classic III, is new graphite large arbor fly reel, light weight and strong. Polymeric material made for durability and corrosion resistance. Large arbor design for backing capacity and fast retrieve.
- Rugged central disc drag for extremely smooth and consistent drag control.
- One-way bearing for easy conversion between hands, silent forward retrieve, and a clear clicker sound on drag.
- THREE YEAR WARRANTY: If any problem about The product, please contact us firstly and our customer service will solve it for you soon.
- Multi-Disk Cork and Stainless Steel Drag Washers
- Precision Machined Brass Bushing Drive System
- Precision Machined Stainless Steel Spool Shaft
- Roller bearing allows the drag to engage in one direction only
- ALC: Alumilite Diecast Aluminum Frame
- Diecast Super Large arbor spool design
- Non-slip positive grip rubberized handle knobs
- Easy to change left to right hand retrieval conversion
- HIGH PERFORMANCE – The heart of a good Spincasting Fishing Reel is in the line pick up system. KastKing Brutus Spincaster reel features a stainless-steel, Dual Pickup system that grabs slack line quickly so you can quickly be ready to set the hook or make another cast.
- HIGH SPEED - With 4.0:1 gear ratio, KastKing Brutus Spincast Fishing reels will pick up line faster and save time in between casts. More importantly, you catch up quickly with fish that may make a run directly at the angler and eliminate slack in your line to increase catch rate.
- SMOOTH AND DURABLE – Brutus Spincast Reels are built for smooth performance with 5 Stainless-Steel, double shielded ball bearings that make this the smoothest bullet reel available today.
- REVERSIBLE HANDLE – Unlike most spincasting reels, the KastKing Brutus push button fishing reel features an amazing aluminum, reversible, double paddle handle with durable rubber grips that can quickly and easily be changed from left- or right-hand retrieve by simply removing the handle retainer cap and moving the handle to the opposite side of the reel. This important feature means that you can have just one spincast reel that best fits any anglers fishing style.
- PRE-SPOOLED WITH PREMIUM MONO LINE – The KastKing Brutus Spincaster style spinning reel has 33% more fishing line capacity than competitive push button reels, which means you can make longer casts, fish for more species in deeper water conditions, and simply have a better fishing experience. It even comes pre-spooled with 160 yards of 10 lb test KastKing Premium Monofilament fishing line so it’s ready to go fishing right out of the box. Great as a trout fishing reel or bass fishing reel.
How to choose a good fly reels
Does the idea of finding a fantastic fly reels make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in fly reels. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top fly reels products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top fly reels on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top fly reels brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top fly reels based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the fly reels were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good fly reels, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your fly reels.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting fly reels for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our fly reels. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what fly reels should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on fly reels.
