Lamson Guru 2.0 Review in 2026 – Fly Reels

In this Lamson Guru 2.0 Review we find out just how this fly reel performs. From the reel's construction, drag system, to pros and cons, we got you covered.
lamson guru 2.0 review

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In this Lamson Guru 2.0 Review, we find out just how this fly reel performs. From the reel’s construction, and drag system, to the pros and cons, we got you covered.

Waterworks Lamson reels are some of the most popular fly reels out there, and for good reason! This company has been making excellent fishing gear for over two decades. Their expertise and passion for fishing are evident in their top-quality, effective products, which is why we couldn’t wait to review the Guru 2.0 fly reel!

The Lamson Guru 2.0 has long been a classic reel for fly fishing. And with its complete redesign, it’s better than ever. Let’s take a look at the all-new Guru series and see how they fare out on the water. Read on to find out if the Guru 2.0 is the right reel for you!

Lamson Guru 2.0 Review

lamson guru

Lamson Guro 2.0 Specs:

Available Size: 2 – 8 Overall Weight: 4.8 – 8.3oz
Arbor Size: Large Material: Machined 6061 Aluminum
Spool Diameter: 3.09 – 4.41in Colors: –
Spool Capacity: 35 – 250yds Warranty: Lifetime Warranty
Drag Type: Disc Country of Manufacture: USA

Overall Score

79%
Durability
80%
Drag System Quality
70%
Weight and Balance
80%
Line Capacity
80%
Ease of Maintenance
90%
Aesthetic and Design
70%
Price to Value Ratio
80%
Brand Reputation & Customer Service
80%

Key Features

  • Sealed Conical Drag System
  • Machined 6061 Aluminum
  • Type II Anodized
  • Large Arbor

Construction

The Waterworks Lamson Guru series consists of fully machined, low price reels that are suitable for all types of fly fishing. This reel boasts a large arbor and concave spool, which allows you to load it up with plenty of backing and line!

The clever redesign makes it stronger than ever before. Lamson uses machined 6061 aluminum for the frame, and the internals are constructed from anti-corrosive stainless steel. The final detail is the type II anodize with a clear finish for a durable and attractive result. This is a reel that will last!

From start to finish, the production of the Guru 2.0 reels takes place in the US. With top-quality materials and close attention to detail, you won’t be disappointed by these excellent Lamson fly reels.

In any case, you also get a lifetime warranty for the first buyer. If anything happens to the reel, you’ll only need to pay the $20 fee, and Waterworks Lamson will replace or repair it for you.

You can buy the Guru type II in the color silver, black, or grey/orange. Take your pick from any of these colorways – they all look great out on the water! It’s available in size 1 up to size 4, according to your needs.

Weight

Another benefit of the latest Waterworks Lamson Guru series is the open porting to reduce weight, making it a lightweight reel. For example, the 5 weight Guru reel comes in at 4.85 ounces. Pretty impressive!

The open porting has an additional benefit in that it speeds up line drying, too.

You can fish all day with this, and you won’t have to worry about arm strain or achy muscles. You’ll be raring to go straight back out onto the water the next day!