Shop Fly Fishing Reels From Top Brands Like Cheeky Fishing, Sage, Snowbee, and more! — 30 products / 66 models — Page 1

Fly Fishing Reels are essential components of a fly angler's gear, playing a crucial role in the pursuit of this graceful and challenging fishing method. Unlike conventional fishing reels, Fly Fishing Reels are designed to store and manage the fly line rather than casting the lure or bait. They serve the purpose of providing drag and tension while reeling in fish, as well as storing excess lines during casting.

OpticsPlanet is your Destination for Gear, and we make sure to carry a wide range of fishing gear, from reels, rods, fishing lines, lures, and more! Everything you need, whether you are a beginner angler or have been fishing for years, OpticsPlanet has you covered!

How Do I Choose a Fly Reel?

Choosing the right fly reel involves considering several factors to ensure it complements your fly fishing setup and meets your specific needs. Match the reel to the weight of your fly rod. Most fly reels are labeled with the appropriate rod weight range. For example, if you have a 5-weight fly rod, look for a reel designed for 5-weight lines. Consider the type of drag system. Modern fly reels typically have either a click-and-pawl drag or a disc drag. Disc drags provide more versatility and power, making them suitable for handling larger fish or challenging conditions. Choose an arbor size based on your preferences and the type of fishing you plan to do. Larger arbors offer quicker line retrieval and reduced line memory, while smaller arbors may be lighter and more traditional. 

What Does a 6 8 Fly Reel Mean?

The term "6/8 fly reel" typically refers to the fly line weight range that a particular fly reel is designed to accommodate. In this case, the reel is suitable for fly lines ranging from 6-weight to 8-weight.

The number indicates the range of fly line weights the reel intends to handle. In fly fishing, the weight of the fly line is a crucial factor that needs to match the weight rating of the fly rod. Fly lines are designated with a weight rating (e.g., 5wt, 6wt, 8wt), and the fly reel should correspond to that rating.

So, a 6/8 fly reel is versatile and can be used with fly rods designed for 6-weight, 7-weight, and 8-weight lines. This range makes it suitable for various fishing scenarios, from targeting smaller freshwater species with a 6-weight line to handling larger fish or more challenging conditions with an 8-weight line.

When selecting a fly reel, it's important to match it with the appropriate fly rod and line weight for the type of fishing you plan to do, considering factors such as the size of the fish, the type of water, and the fishing conditions.

Shop Fly Fishing Reels at OpticsPlanet!

Fly Fishing Reels are indispensable companions to anglers, integral in pursuing the graceful and challenging art of fly fishing. Their specialized design for managing fly lines, providing crucial drag and tension, sent them apart from conventional reels. As you embark on your fly fishing journey, the key to success lies in choosing the right fly reel. OpticsPlanet, your trusted destination for gear, offers a comprehensive selection of fishing equipment to cater to every angler's needs, whether you're a novice or a seasoned veteran. From reels and rods to lines, lures, and more, OpticsPlanet has you covered. Remember, the careful consideration of factors like rod weight, drag system, arbor size, and line capacity ensures you find the perfect fly reel, enhancing your overall fly fishing experience.