Fly Fishing Reels
Finding the right fly-fishing reel is as important as your fly fishing rod. The fly reel needs to match the weight of the rod. Although many reels have, interchangeable spools for changing line weight easily you still need to keep close to the weight of your rod. Many anglers think the fly fishing reel is just used for storage of your fly line. The truth is it has evolved into so much more. The reel will make a the difference in being able to land your fish or failing to get it to the net.
Many fly fishing reels are made of aluminum. When using, the fly angler will strips line off the reel with one hand while they are casting with the other. The fly angler then retrieves the slack line by winding it back up on the reel or coiling it in the water being ready for their next cast. The type of reel you use will depend a lot on the type of fish you are trying to catch. Some reels are better suited for larger fish. There are also the higher end reels for those more demanding conditions while on the water.
Make sure your fly-fishing reel has a solid handle that is easy to maneuver. Some reels come with double handles one on each end of the spool. This may make it much easier for you to grab and wind up. Which one you choose is a matter of personal preference!
The spool is what holds the fly line and backing. Attached to the spool on the outside is a small weight known as a counter balance. The counter balance assures that the reel spins smooth and true. Many spools have exposed rims or sides. This serves a very useful purpose when you are struggling with a fish. You can cup your hand on the outside of the reel and apply additional pressure so you can play the fish. This will give you added control over your drag and save your tackle when fighting a heavy fish if you are using light line.
The drag on a fly-fishing reel creates pressure and prevents the line from free spooling or backlashing. You can have a click drag on your reel, springs that put pressure against a gear and stop it from moving. These reels are very noisy, though, you may want to keep that in mind. Disc drags are either pads or gears that have calipers like the brakes on a car. As the pressure on the gear increases, the pad clamps down on the spool keeping it from spooling easily.
The reel clamps to your fly rod in what is called a seat. The reel is clamped into the seat by its feet. All reels have feet made to the same standard so the seats that are on fly fishing rods will handle all fly-fishing reels. You can pick out your rod and then choose the reel you want and not have to worry if it will fit your rod, just make sure that your reel matches your rod weight.
Choosing your fly fishing reel depends a lot, on what type of fishing you will be doing. If fishing on the bigger rivers for larger fish, you will want one that can handle the weight of the fish. Make sure it has room for additional line or backing as well. If you are just fishing for trout and bass, in the smaller streams, you can use a standard reel.
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