10 Best Fly Fishing Reels 2025 in the United States

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 Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel is a solid choice for anglers looking for a lightweight, durable reel that performs well in various conditions. Its 3/4 weight rating fits well for medium-light fly fishing, making it suitable for a range of fish species. The reel is made from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, which is CNC-machined for precision and toughness, while the hard-anodized finish adds extra protection against rust and wear—great for both freshwater and saltwater use. It comes pre-loaded with a tapered fly line and backing, so you can start fishing without needing to spool your line yourself.

The drag system is a highlight, featuring a multi-disc carbon and stainless steel setup that offers smooth, silent, and precise drag control. This helps when fighting fish by providing good stopping power without jerks. The reel has a mid-arbor design, which balances line retrieval speed and line memory well. The 2.3:1 gear ratio provides a comfortable retrieve rate for most users. The reel is preset for left-hand retrieve but can be switched to right-hand retrieve with support from the manufacturer, adding flexibility. At about 0.2 kilograms, it’s light enough to reduce fatigue during long fishing sessions.

For anglers seeking a reliable, corrosion-resistant fly reel that comes ready to fish and offers smooth drag performance, the Piscifun Sword is a strong option. Those requiring a reel designed for very large fish or faster retrieve rates might want to consider heavier models or reels with higher gear ratios.

The Lamson Liquid -3+ S-Series fly fishing reel is a solid choice for anglers who want a lightweight, versatile reel that can handle a range of freshwater and saltwater fishing situations. Its pressure-cast aluminum construction offers good durability without adding too much weight (just 7.65 ounces), making it easy to handle during long fishing sessions. The large arbor design helps with quick line retrieval and reduces line memory, which means your line won’t kink or coil as easily—a real plus for maintaining smooth casts.

One of the standout features is the sealed conical drag system. This drag is smooth and powerful, providing a broad range of resistance that helps when you’re fighting a strong fish. The sealed design keeps water and debris out, ensuring the drag stays reliable even in tough, wet environments. The drag knob is large and easy to grip, which is convenient for quick adjustments on the water.

The reel is ambidextrous, so it works comfortably for both right- and left-handed users. Its size options (2wt, 3wt, 4wt) are best suited for lighter fly lines, making it a great fit for smaller fish species and delicate presentations. While it doesn’t specify a precise retrieve rate, the large arbor naturally allows for faster line pickup compared to traditional reels. Considering its price point, the Lamson Liquid -3+ S-Series offers a good balance of durability, smooth drag performance, and versatility, making it a reliable all-water reel without breaking the bank.