10 Best Fly Fishing Reels 2025 in the United States

The Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel is a solid choice for fly-fishing enthusiasts, especially those looking for a pre-loaded reel. It features a durable and lightweight design made from precision CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, which ensures high-impact durability. The reel's larger CNC hollow design further reduces its weight, making it easier to handle during long fishing sessions.

With a multi-disc premium carbon and stainless steel drag system, this reel offers a silky smooth drag and immediate engagement, which can be crucial when you're trying to land a big catch. The hard anodized surface increases corrosion resistance, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. Additionally, its mid-arbor design helps improve line retrieval rates, which is beneficial for quickly reeling in your catch.

Weighing only 0.23 kilograms, this reel is lightweight and easy to operate. One notable feature is the ambidextrous hand orientation, making it versatile for both left and right-handed users. However, it's important to note that international products might have different terms, labeling, and instructions than local ones. This could pose minor inconveniences for some users. In summary, this reel is well-suited for fly-fishing enthusiasts who value durability, smooth drag performance, and lightweight design.

The Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit serves as a solid entry-level fly-fishing reel and rod combo, making it a great choice for beginners. This 4-piece kit includes everything needed to get started, such as a 9' 6-wt. rod, a size II Encounter reel, and additional accessories like a rod/reel case, backing, and leader. Its lightweight construction at just 1.94 pounds means it’s relatively easy to handle, which is beneficial for those new to the sport. Plus, the 5-year guarantee from Orvis adds a layer of confidence in the product’s durability.

One of the key strengths of this outfit is its affordability without compromising on performance. The Encounter reel features a large arbor design that helps with quick line retrieval, which is essential for catching fast-moving fish like bass and trout. The rod's medium power rating is versatile, making it suitable for various fishing techniques and conditions, further appealing to novices.

The Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit is a well-rounded starter kit that delivers on its promise of affordability and ease of use, making it highly suitable for beginner anglers. Those with more experience may want to look for more advanced features and materials to better suit their fishing style.

The LAMSON Liquid -3+ S-Series Fly Fishing Reel is a versatile option suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It features a large arbor design that ensures quick line pickup and minimizes line memory, making it easier to manage your lines. The reel's sealed conical drag system offers a smooth, powerful drag that is protected from water and debris, enhancing its performance and longevity in various water conditions.

This reel is made from pressure-cast aluminum, providing a durable yet lightweight construction that is precision-machined for an excellent fit and finish. The reel weighs 7.65 ounces, which is relatively light and adds to its ease of use during extended fishing trips. Additionally, the ambidextrous design allows for both left and right-handed users to operate it comfortably.

On the downside, while the pressure-cast construction makes the reel more affordable, it may not be as robust as higher-end CNC machined options. This might affect its long-term durability under intensive use. The reel size, suitable for 2wt, 3wt, and 4wt lines, limits its usage to lighter fishing applications, which may not be ideal for targeting larger species. However, for those looking for a reliable, all-water fly fishing reel with a strong drag system and a large arbor design, the LAMSON Liquid -3+ S-Series offers excellent value for its price.