10 Best Fly Fishing Reels 2026 in the United States

The Ross Reels Animas is a lightweight, durable fly fishing reel designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, fitting 7-8 weight rods. It stands out with its ultra-large arbor, which helps in faster line retrieval and reduces line memory, making it practical for active anglers. The reel features a high-performance composite disc drag system paired with stainless steel components, providing smooth and powerful drag control that’s reliable when fighting strong fish.

Made from machined aluminum, the frame and spool offer strength without unnecessary weight, while the updated spool design enhances durability and requires no maintenance. The ergonomic design includes an ultra-light canvas phenolic handle that actually gets tackier when wet, improving your grip during long fishing sessions. The reel weighs just over half a pound, keeping your setup comfortable without sacrificing build quality.

While the drag system is powerful, some may find the two-tone drag knob’s lower profile a bit less accessible if they prefer larger knobs. The Animas reel effectively balances performance, durability, and style, appealing to anglers looking for a reliable, smooth-operating reel that handles both fresh and saltwater conditions well.

The LAMSON Guru S-Series -3+ is a versatile fly fishing reel designed to handle a wide range of fishing conditions, from small panfish to larger saltwater species. One of its standout features is the smooth, strong conical drag system, which is sealed to protect against water and debris—delivering consistent performance even in tough environments. The large arbor design helps with quick line retrieval and reduces line memory, making it easier to manage your line without tangles.

The reel is fully CNC machined and anodized, ensuring it’s both lightweight and highly durable against abrasion and damage. Its metal construction and quality materials like stainless steel bearings and aluminum handle add to its reliability. The reel is available in smaller sizes (2wt, 3wt, 4wt), which are great for light to moderate fly fishing scenarios. While it features one or three bearings, the retrieve may not feel as buttery smooth as reels with more bearings, but it remains functional and dependable. Additionally, the left-hand orientation might not suit all anglers who prefer right-hand retrieves.

Weighing around 0.23 kg, it’s lightweight enough for long days on the water without causing fatigue. With its balance of durable build, effective drag, and large arbor benefits, this reel serves as a solid choice for both beginners and experienced anglers seeking a reliable, all-water reel without breaking the bank.

The Moonshine Rod Company The Creede Fly Fishing Reel 3/4 Copper is a solid choice for anglers looking for a durable and reliable reel. It’s made from fully machined 6061 forged aluminum, which makes it both strong and lightweight at just over 5 ounces, so it won’t weigh you down during long fishing sessions. The large arbor design helps increase your line retrieval speed and backing capacity, which means you can reel in fish faster and handle longer runs without trouble. The carbon fiber stacked disc drag system is fully sealed, protecting it from dirt and water, and provides smooth, consistent resistance when fighting fish. This adds confidence in tough conditions and makes it easier to control your catch. Another handy feature is the ability to switch between left and right-hand retrieve, accommodating different fishing styles. The spool’s larger diameter also reduces line memory, helping prevent tangles and improving casting performance.

The reel has a stylish copper finish and a comfortable G10 handle. While it ranks well among fly fishing reels and has high customer satisfaction, its bearing number is modest (2 to 5), which might not offer the silky smoothness some anglers prefer on top-end reels. However, for most users, the balance of quality materials, effective drag, and thoughtful design makes it a dependable option. Plus, the lifetime warranty with efficient service adds peace of mind, making this reel a great pick for both casual and more serious fly fishers who want a versatile, well-built reel that can handle varied fishing environments.