10 Best Large Arbor Fly Reels 2026 in the United States

The Ross Evolution R Fly Fishing Reel is a lightweight yet durable option for fly anglers, weighing under 9 ounces and made from high-quality materials like 6061-T6 aluminum and stainless steel. Its large arbor design helps reduce line memory and improves line retrieval speed, which is useful for quickly reeling in fish. The reel features a fully sealed drag system with a carbon fiber and stainless steel disc stack that offers reliable and smooth drag pressure, helping prevent line breakage during fights.

The use of machined aluminum and carbon components ensures a good power-to-weight ratio, making it easier to handle for long fishing sessions. The reel comes anodized for durability and corrosion resistance, suitable for both freshwater and light saltwater use. It supports both left and right-hand retrieves, adding to its versatility. While it is priced more as a premium option, it scores highly in customer reviews, suggesting solid performance and satisfaction.

If you're looking for a robust, lightweight fly reel with a strong drag system and large arbor benefits, the Ross Evolution R is worth considering.

The Lamson Speedster S-Series 7+ reel stands out with its super large arbor, designed to help you quickly reel in line while reducing line memory and coiling issues. It’s built for speed, with a tall, narrow shape that neatly stacks your fly line and allows for rapid line pickup, which can be a big advantage when fighting fast or strong fish. The reel’s drag system uses a sealed conical design that provides smooth and powerful resistance, protecting it from water and debris, which means it should perform reliably in both freshwater and saltwater conditions.

Made with fully CNC-machined stainless steel and aluminum, it is both strong and durable while maintaining a good strength-to-weight ratio, so it won't feel heavy on your rod. The reel handles 6 to 8 weight lines and offers ample backing capacity, fitting a wide range of fishing scenarios from panfish up to bigger saltwater targets. One consideration is that the reel is left-hand oriented, which may not suit everyone.

At 0.27 kilograms, it’s fairly lightweight but might feel a bit bulkier compared to some other models if you prefer ultra-light setups. If you want a high-quality, fast-retrieving reel that excels in diverse environments and values durability and smooth drag, the Speedster S-Series 7+ is an excellent option.

The Redington Behemoth 7/8 fly reel offers a strong combination of power, durability, and speed designed for anglers who want a reliable reel for a range of fishing situations—from trout fishing with a 5-weight rod to tackling larger saltwater species. Its large arbor spool enables faster line retrieval and reduces line memory, helping you respond quickly when a fish takes off. The reel features a heavy-duty carbon fiber drag system that provides smooth, reliable resistance up to about 9 kilograms, making it easier to control stronger fish without line breakage.

Weighing just 0.65 pounds, it is lightweight enough for comfortable long fishing sessions, with carbon materials contributing to its strength without extra weight. The line capacity is generous for its size, holding up to 200 yards of 20-pound backing line, which is suitable for handling long runs in both freshwater and saltwater environments. The design includes an ambidextrous handle with soft grips for better control and feedback.

While the reel is built tough with die-cast construction, it may not feel as premium as fully machined reels preferred by some experienced anglers. The retrieve rate is strong but not specifically quantified, so if ultra-fast retrieval is essential for certain techniques, this might be a minor consideration. This reel suits beginners through advanced users who want a versatile, reliable fly reel with a powerful drag and large arbor, especially if fishing multiple types of water and needing a solid all-around performer.