After many hours on the river and late-night debates with the team, we recommend that the best fly reel for most trout-fly fishermen is the Galvan Torque fly reel. It has the best-in-class drag system, is much lighter than other options, has a lifetime warranty, and is made in the USA.
Over the past decade, I’ve fished nearly 100 different fly reels and rods, thanks in large part to my job as a fly fishing writer. Some we have been sent by companies to test, but most were purchased by myself.
Here are our unbias and honest recommendations for the top fly reels in each category:
| Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Best Professional Fly ReelThe Galvan Torque |
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| Best Fly Reel For Most PeopleRedington Behemoth |
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| Best Saltwater Fly Fishing ReelOrvis Hydros SL |
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| Best Piscifun Fly ReelPiscifun Platte |
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| Best Fly Reel for the MoneyLamson Guru S |
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Any of the reels listed in this article will work well, but you’ll need to find out exactly what reel comes in the correct size for your rod, and matches what you’d like to spend.
What To Look For in a Fly Reel?
Ultimately, you want a reel that matches the weight of your fly rod and line, and has plenty of space for your backing and fly line. I also recommend sticking with a brand. So if you have a 5-weight Sage rod it’s best to pair it with a 5-weight sage reel until you know what specifics you’re looking for.
Consider your budget up front as this will most likely be your key determining factor. A fly reel can range from $50 all the way to over $600 if you’re looking to get the best of the best.
If you want to fish in saltwater, or even fly fishing saltwater flats, go for a corrosion-resistant sealed reel. This will reduce the amount of upkeep you need to do to the reel to keep it functional.
If you’re just starting out I suggest picking up a reel for between $100 and $200 that matches your rod. That is generally the sweet spot between weight, drag performance, and aesthetics. Anything less than that and you’ll likely be replacing it sooner than you’d like!
The Best Fly Fishing Reels – Detailed Reviews
Before you visit your local fly fishing stores, it’s best to have a range of recommendations for reliable reels. Don’t forget to compare prices online too, because you can save a lot of money that way! Here are the top picks for the best fly reels available today: