In today’s world of Flyfishing, the number of equipment choices can be overwhelming, and the price range is vast! In addition, your reel choice needs to fit the application for the rod and the quarry. Most fly fishing enthusiasts are looking for large arbours with good backing capacity and a decent drag system, especially if you are chasing trophy fish! Then, there is the issue of having at least a couple of reels to match your various setups, again subject to preference and application. There is no way to break down these choices, instead, we have compiled a “best entry-level fly reels” list. Let’s take a look at a few great options that will get you started in your fly fishing pursuits or give you that extra reel that you need in your gear bag, and at a reasonable price!
- Reel Sizes: 3-8wt
- Large arbour
- Lifetime repair warranty and 2 year “no hassle” warranty
The Maxcatch Toro fly reel is a great value for the price and certainly belongs on this list of “Best Entry-Level Fly Reels”.
Available in 3/4, 5/6 & 7/8 wt. models, it is light and durable. With the Type II anodized finish and machined 6061-T6 aluminum bar stock provide enhanced engineering strength.
This reel is equipped with a smooth drag system that has 3.5 lbs of drag power and a Cork-Teflon disc and stainless steel drag system. With a one-way clutch bearing this reel has a smooth, immediate drag engagement and low start-up inertia.
The large arbor spool allows for swift line retrieval which is a huge benefit when it comes to landing larger fish. Additionally, the reel features a simple drag cover for dust and sand resistance, hidden drag knob screws for avoiding rust, and a simple one-way bearing cover for easy no-tools-needed left and right-hand retrieval change.
The Maxcatch Toro fly reel definitely lives up to the value-based brand, offering a “no-hassle” two-year warranty and a lifetime repair warranty.
This is a great reel for freshwater anglers who need a quality reel that has enough power to put the breaks on your favourite freshwater species!
- Reel Size: 4-12wt
- Large Arbour
- Lightweight
The Redington Behemoth fly reel is an entry-level reel that packs a punch. This reel is perfect for the beginner to the experienced fly fisherman with sizes ranging from 4-12 wt. models.
The Redington Behemoth 5/6 wt fly reel has a line capacity of up to 200 yards of 20 lb backing, a large arbour spool of 4.25 inches, and a lightweight design of only 8.7 ounces. It also features an ambidextrous design with a large knob for easy line retrieval.
The Behemoth is designed with its unique V-cut design, which gives it the ability to hold more than ample amounts of backing. it also makes for excellent retrieval rates.
More importantly, this reel boasts one of the most impressive drag systems on the market, let alone the price range. Redington notes a 30lb drag capacity. On top of that, next-to-nothing start-up inertia makes for one of the most finely tuned drag systems that you will ever see in this price range.
Redington has long been a significant player in the fly fishing industry, having been founded in 1992 with a commitment to producing quality, value-oriented equipment. The Behemoth fly reel is an incredible value for the money. It is durable, reliable, and has the best drag system in its class. We highly recommend this reel!
Orvis Clearwater
- Reel Size: 4-9wt size
- Large Arbour
- Lightweight
The Orvis Clearwater fly reel is another fantastic choice for any angler looking for a reliable, durable, lightweight fly reel.
With its long history of excellence in the fly fishing industry, Orvis has crafted a product that will stand the test of time. The line capacity of the Clearwater is quite impressive, with the 5/6 wt having a capacity of 100 yards of 20lb backing with a WF6F line. The spool size is also remarkable, measuring 3.25″ in diameter and a width of 1.25″.
The Clearwater is designed to be ambidextrous, making it easily interchangeable for left-handed or right-handed anglers.
With its lightweight design, it is no surprise that the reel weighs in at only 5.3 ounces. The Orvis Clearwater fly reel is an excellent choice for anglers looking for a quality and lightweight reel that will provide the performance you deserve at a price that you can stomach.
This one definitely makes our list of best entry-level fly reels!
Redington Run
- Reel Size: 3-8wt
- Mid-size Arbour
- Lightweight
Another quality reel from Redington and a step up from the Behemoth, the Redington Run fly reel is a great value reel for any fly angler.
As previously mentioned, Redington has been a leader in the fly fishing industry for over 30 years, and the Run reel is a testament to its dedication to creating quality and affordable products.
This reel series is available in 3-8 wt. models and features a large arbour design and a large spool size that can hold up to 100 yards of backing with a WF6F line. The lightweight design and ambidextrous handle make it great for left- and right-handed casters, adding to its versatility.
The drag system is that of a partially sealed carbon fibre drag system which results in a very impressive performance. This drag system has little to no start-up inertia and smooth stopping power.
The attractive design and colour finish of the Redington Run reel is an added bonus with multiple colour options available. The classic look with modern touches is sure to turn heads. Overall, the Redington Run fly reel is excellent. It’s lightweight, durable and reliable, and its attractive design and colour finish make it a perfect choice for any beginner or die-hard Angler!
Sage Spectrum LT
- Reel Size: 3-10wt
- Large Arbour
- Lightweight
- High-performance reel, strong drag
For our last one, we wanted to give you something that probably moves beyond the “entry-level” category! The Sage Spectrum LT fly reel is a true testament to the quality and craftsmanship of Sage Fly Fishing, who we all know! With a long and storied history in the fly fishing industry, Sage has established itself as one of the premier fly fishing companies in the world.
The Spectrum LT fly reel is no exception to Sage’s outstanding reputation. With models available in 3-10 wt. models. Its line capacity is impressive, and its spool size is ideal for a wide range of lines and applications on the water. Its ambidextrous design ensures that left and right-handed anglers can appreciate and use the reel with ease.
Sage has implemented their proprietary SCS drag system, which is tuned to each reel size and for the application. You are ensured that the drag system will perform when it counts.
Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and maneuver on the water. The attractive modern design of the reel stands out from the rest giving the Spectrum an air of sophistication. In addition, the reel is made of fully machined 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum guaranteeing that it will stand up to any abuse you can throw at it.
In conclusion, the Sage Spectrum LT is a high-quality reel that will surely please any fly angler at a price that won’t make you cringe. Its incredible line capacity, spool size, ambidextrous design, and lightweight construction add value to a fantastic reel. With an attractive design and high performance, it is a must-have for any serious fly angler.
Conclusion
It is hard in today’s market to make good purchases at a reasonable price, and not everyone can afford to purchase high-end equipment. Here at PNWA, our goal is to provide you with the best options we can find, and the goal of this article is to give you some great options for the best entry-level fly reels. Whether you are just starting out or building on your equipment list, these reels will give you what you need at a great price!
