Fly fishing is a beloved pastime for many anglers, and having the right gear is crucial to a successful fishing trip. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the fly reel. A fly reel is a mechanical device that holds the fly line and provides a drag system to help control the fish. A good fly reel can make a significant difference in the fishing experience, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best fly reels under $200.
When looking for a fly reel, there are a few things to consider. The first is the type of fishing you’ll be doing. Different types of fishing require different types of reels, so it’s essential to choose the right one for your needs. Another factor to consider is the size of the reel. The size of the reel should match the weight of the rod you’ll be using. Finally, the drag system is an essential feature to consider. A good drag system will help you control the fish and prevent the line from breaking.
We’ve tested and researched several fly reels under $200 to bring you the best options on the market. In this article, we’ll be discussing the features and benefits of each reel, as well as any drawbacks. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in a fly reel and which options are the best for your budget.
Best Fly Reels Under $200
We know that finding the right fly reel can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best fly reels under $200. These reels provide excellent value for the money, without sacrificing quality and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, we’ve got you covered with our top picks. Check out our list below and find the perfect fly reel for your next fishing adventure.
Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel
If you’re looking for a reliable fly reel under $200, the Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel is a solid choice.
Pros
- Precision CNC-Machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy for high-impact durability
- Multi-disc premium carbon and stainless steel drag system with one-way clutch bearing for smooth immediate drag engagement
- Mid-Arbor Design reducing line memory while also facilitating lightning-quick line pickup
Cons
- Some users have reported a cheap feel to the reel
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty fishing
- The reel may not be as smooth as more expensive options
The Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel is CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, making it lightweight and durable. Its multi-disc premium carbon and stainless steel drag system with one-way clutch bearing provides smooth drag engagement and accurate click drag. The mid-arbor design reduces line memory while facilitating quick line pickup.
While some users have reported a cheap feel to the reel, the Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel is still a great value for its price point. It may not be suitable for heavy-duty fishing, but it is a reliable choice for beginners or anglers looking for an affordable backup reel.
Overall, we recommend the Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel for anyone looking for a dependable fly reel under $200.
Sage Spectrum C Fly Fishing Reel
If you are looking for a fly reel under $200, the Sage Spectrum C Fly Fishing Reel is a great option.
Pros
- The SPECTRUM Family Sealed Carbon Drag ensures a smooth and reliable drag system.
- The machined and anodized aluminum One Revolution Drag Knob with numbered and detented settings allows for easy adjustment of the drag.
- The large arbor design and vented concave spool provide fast line pick-up and increased strength and capacity.
Cons
- The reel is on the heavier side compared to other fly reels in its class.
- The included neoprene and embroidered ballistic nylon reel case may not provide enough protection for the reel during travel.
- Some users have reported issues with the handle coming loose during use.
The Sage Spectrum C Fly Fishing Reel is a high-quality reel that offers great performance for its price point. The SPECTRUM Family Sealed Carbon Drag system ensures a smooth and reliable drag, while the machined and anodized aluminum One Revolution Drag Knob allows for easy adjustment of the drag. The large arbor design and vented concave spool provide fast line pick-up and increased strength and capacity.
However, the reel is on the heavier side compared to other fly reels in its class, which may be a concern for some anglers. Additionally, the included neoprene and embroidered ballistic nylon reel case may not provide enough protection for the reel during travel. Some users have also reported issues with the handle coming loose during use.
Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and high-performing fly reel under $200, the Sage Spectrum C Fly Fishing Reel is definitely worth considering.
M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch ECO Fly Fishing Reel
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly fly reel, the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch ECO Fly Fishing Reel is worth considering.
Pros
- Outstanding value for the price
- Strong and durable all-aluminum construction
- Rugged disc drag for putting serious pressure on the fish
Cons
- The drag adjustment knob may be scuffed up
- The drag may be a little rough to get right
- The space between the reel and the reel cage may allow the line to slip or get jammed occasionally
The M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch ECO Fly Fishing Reel is a great option for those on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality. With its all-aluminum construction and large arbor design, this reel is both strong and durable, while also allowing for rapid line retrieval. The rugged disc drag system allows you to put serious pressure on the fish, while the one-way bearing makes it easy to switch between left and right-hand retrieval.
While this reel is a great value for the price, there are a few minor issues to be aware of. Some users have noted that the drag adjustment knob may be a little scuffed up upon arrival, but this doesn’t affect the function of the reel. Additionally, the drag may be a little rough to get right, but it still does what you need it to do, which is hold the line for you. Finally, the space between the reel and the reel cage may allow the line to slip or get jammed occasionally, but this doesn’t happen often enough to be a major issue.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly fly reel that still offers quality and durability, the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch ECO Fly Fishing Reel is definitely worth considering.
Martin Caddis Creek Fly Fishing Reel
We recommend the Martin Caddis Creek Fly Fishing Reel for those looking for an affordable and versatile option for light and medium species fishing.
Pros
- Ultimate control with changeable right- or left-hand retrieve and rim control for manual drag
- Durable and lightweight aluminum frame and spool for easy use over many fishing adventures
- Precision casting with metal click drag and on/off control for speed management
Cons
- Limited line storage with pre-spooled 20lb backing, LT6F fly line, and 5X leader
- Lack of drag system may not be suitable for larger species or heavy currents
- Limited warranty period of only one year
The Martin Caddis Creek Fly Fishing Reel offers ultimate control with its changeable retrieve and rim control for manual drag, making it a versatile option for light and medium species fishing. Its durable and lightweight aluminum frame and spool make it easy to use over many fishing adventures, while its metal click drag and on/off control provide precision casting and speed management. However, its limited line storage and lack of drag system may not be suitable for larger species or heavy currents, and its warranty period is limited to only one year.
Sougayilang Fly Fishing Reel
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly fly reel, the Sougayilang Fly Fishing Reel is a great option that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Made of durable and corrosion-resistant CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy
- Large arbor design for smooth immediate drag engagement
- Finely machined and knurled metal screw caps for easy spool change and left/right hand retrieval conversion
Cons
- Lack of click on reeling in the line
- Slightly wide tolerance
- Not the lightest reel on the market
This reel is a killer freshwater fly reel that works well for multi-species fishing in rivers, lakes, streams, and creeks. It’s ideal for all-around fly fishing species such as trout, grayling, salmon, and other predatory fish. The reel features 2+1 ball bearings and a 1:1 gear ratio, with a one-way roller bearing that engages drag in one direction. The reel is hard anodized for surface protection, which increases abrasion resistance and weather fastness. It’s also cold forged and tempered for superior strength and rigidity.
The Sougayilang Fly Fishing Reel has a three-year warranty, and their customer service is top-notch. If you have any problems with the product, they’ll solve it for you soon. The reel has been set at the factory for left-hand retrieve, but if you want to convert it to right-hand retrieve, you can contact them for guidance.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly fly reel that’s durable and corrosion-resistant, the Sougayilang Fly Fishing Reel is a great option. It’s not the lightest reel on the market, and it lacks a click on reeling in the line, but it’s a great value for the price.
Aventik FLK Fly Fishing Reel
If you’re looking for a reliable fly reel under $200, the Aventik FLK Fly Fishing Reel is a good option to consider.
Pros
- The reel is made of aircraft T6061 aluminum, which makes it strong and durable.
- The composite disc and stainless steel one-way clutch bearing system ensure smooth and timely drag engagement, reducing line backlash.
- The 3D large-arbor design makes for a great balance between fast line retrieve and spool capacity.
Cons
- The finish quality could be improved.
- Some users have reported issues with the spool rubbing against the frame.
- The reel may not be suitable for rank beginners.
The Aventik FLK Fly Fishing Reel is a solid choice for anglers looking for a budget-friendly fly reel that performs well. The reel is constructed with aircraft T6061 aluminum, making it both strong and lightweight. The composite disc and stainless steel one-way clutch bearing system ensure that the drag is smooth and timely, reducing line backlash. The 3D large-arbor design is optimized for fast line retrieve and spool capacity, while the palming rim is designed for quick release.
While the finish quality could be improved, the reel is still a good value for the price. Some users have reported issues with the spool rubbing against the frame, but this seems to be a rare occurrence. Overall, the reel is a solid choice for intermediate to experienced fly fishers who are looking for a reliable reel that won’t break the bank.
M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Tino Fly Fishing Reel
If you’re looking for a cost-effective fly reel that doesn’t compromise on quality, the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Tino Fly Fishing Reel is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With its one-year warranty, you can rest assured that you’re making a risk-free purchase.
- The all-aluminum construction with CNC cutting makes this reel both strong and durable.
- The rugged disc drag system allows you to put serious pressure on the fish, making it an ideal choice for more challenging fishing conditions.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the drag system can be a bit finicky and requires some tweaking to get it just right.
- While the reel is certainly cost-effective, it may not be the best choice for more experienced anglers who are looking for a higher-end product.
- The one-way bearing for left-to-right hand retrieval switch can be a bit tricky to use at first.
If you’re just starting out with fly fishing or are looking for an affordable backup reel, the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Tino Fly Fishing Reel is definitely worth considering. With its one-year warranty, you can feel confident in your purchase, knowing that you can return it at any time if you’re not completely satisfied. The all-aluminum construction with CNC cutting also makes this reel strong and durable, so you can trust that it will hold up well over time. And with its rugged disc drag system, you can put serious pressure on the fish, making it an ideal choice for more challenging fishing conditions.
That being said, some users have reported that the drag system can be a bit finicky and requires some tweaking to get it just right. Additionally, while the reel is certainly cost-effective, it may not be the best choice for more experienced anglers who are looking for a higher-end product. Finally, the one-way bearing for left-to-right hand retrieval switch can be a bit tricky to use at first, so you’ll need to spend some time getting used to it.
Aventik HVCE Graphite Fly Reel Center Drag System Classic III Graphite Large Arbor Sizes 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 Fly Fishing Reels
We recommend the Aventik HVCE Graphite Fly Reel if you’re looking for a budget-friendly fly reel that doesn’t compromise on performance.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable polymeric material construction
- Smooth and consistent drag control
- Large arbor design for backing capacity and fast retrieve
Cons
- Drag can be a bit touchy
- Size may be labeled a bit bigger than they really are
- Not suitable for big game hunting
The Aventik HVCE Graphite Fly Reel is a new graphite large arbor fly reel that is both lightweight and strong. Its polymeric material construction makes it durable and corrosion-resistant. The rugged central disc drag provides extremely smooth and consistent drag control, while the one-way bearing allows for easy conversion between hands and a silent forward retrieve. The large arbor design ensures ample backing capacity and fast retrieve.
This fly reel comes in three different sizes: 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8. The 3/4 size has a diameter of 76mm and weighs 4.2oz/120g, with a line capacity of WF3F+60m backing. The 5/6 size has a diameter of 86mm and weighs 4.9oz/140g, with a line capacity of WF5F+60m backing. The 7/8 size has a diameter of 96mm and weighs 5.3oz/150g, with a line capacity of WF7F+80m backing.
While the drag on this reel can be a bit touchy, it’s still a great option for those on a budget. Just be aware that the size may be labeled a bit bigger than they really are, so you may want to order a size up. Additionally, this reel may not be suitable for big game hunting. Overall, the Aventik HVCE Graphite Fly Reel is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable fly reel under $200.
Redington Run Fly Reel
If you’re in the market for a lightweight trout reel, the Redington Run Fly Reel is definitely worth considering. Its carbon fiber drag system is smooth and reliable in all types of environments, and its large arbor design allows for quick retrieval to keep pressure on the fish, no matter how hard the fight is. Its durable, non-machinable die-cast aluminum construction features a unique ported arbor on the inner barrel of the spool for increased durability and decreased weight. The twin-molded soft-touch ergonomic handle offers supreme grip and control in all fishing conditions, and it easily converts from left to right hand retrieve.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Reliable carbon fiber drag system
- Large arbor design for quick line retrieval
Cons
- Non-machinable construction
- Limited color options
- Nylon reel case may not be as durable as desired
The Redington Run Fly Reel is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight option with a reliable drag system. Its large arbor design and easy-to-adjust recessed drag knob make it a breeze to use in all types of fishing environments. However, its non-machinable construction may not be as durable as other options on the market, and its limited color options may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, some users have reported that the nylon reel case included with the reel may not be as durable as desired. Overall, though, the Redington Run Fly Reel is a great option for those looking for a quality reel at an affordable price.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best fly reel under $200, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:
Drag System
The drag system is one of the most important features of a fly reel. It controls the amount of resistance on the line when a fish is pulling. There are two types of drag systems: click-and-pawl and disc drag. Click-and-pawl drag systems are simple and reliable but may not provide enough stopping power for larger fish. Disc drag systems are more complex but offer more stopping power and are better suited for larger fish.
Arbor Size
The arbor size refers to the diameter of the spool. A larger arbor size means that the reel can hold more line and also allows for faster line retrieval. This is especially important when fishing for larger fish that may take long runs.
Material
The material of the reel is also important. Most fly reels are made of either aluminum or graphite. Aluminum reels are more durable and resistant to corrosion but are also heavier. Graphite reels are lighter but may not be as durable.
Weight
The weight of the reel is also a factor to consider. A heavier reel may be more durable but can also cause fatigue during long casting sessions. A lighter reel may be more comfortable to use but may not be as durable.
Price
Finally, price is always a consideration. While it is possible to find a high-quality fly reel under $200, it is important to balance price with features and durability.
In summary, when choosing the best fly reel under $200, it is important to consider the drag system, arbor size, material, weight, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a reel that is both affordable and effective for your fly fishing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top affordable fly reels for saltwater fishing?
When it comes to affordable fly reels for saltwater fishing, we recommend the Piscifun Sword Fly Fishing Reel, Redington Behemoth Fly Reel, and Okuma SLV Diecast Aluminum Fly Reel. These reels are durable, reliable, and won’t break the bank.
What are the best fly reels under $150 for beginners?
If you’re a beginner angler looking for a quality fly reel under $150, we suggest the Orvis Clearwater Large Arbor Fly Reel, KastKing Kobuk Fly Fishing Reel, and Maxcatch ECO Fly Reel. These reels are easy to use, lightweight, and won’t break the bank.
What are the best saltwater fly reels under $300 for experienced anglers?
For experienced anglers looking for a high-quality saltwater fly reel under $300, we recommend the Redington Rise Fly Reel, Lamson Liquid Fly Reel, and Sage Spectrum C Fly Reel. These reels are designed to handle the toughest saltwater conditions and are built to last.
What are the top-rated fly reels under $200 for freshwater fishing?
If you’re looking for a top-rated fly reel under $200 for freshwater fishing, we suggest the Ross Evolution LTX Fly Reel, Waterworks Lamson Remix Fly Reel, and Echo Ion Fly Reel. These reels are lightweight, durable, and offer smooth, reliable performance on the water.
What are the best 10 wt fly reels for big game fishing?
When it comes to big game fishing, we recommend the Sage Spectrum MAX Fly Reel, Ross Animas Fly Reel, and Hardy Fortuna X Fly Reel for 10 wt fly reels. These reels are designed to handle the toughest saltwater species and provide the power and performance you need to land big fish.
What are the top-performing 9wt fly reels for saltwater fly fishing?
For saltwater fly fishing with a 9 wt fly reel, we suggest the Nautilus X-Series Fly Reel, Hatch Gen 2 Finatic Fly Reel, and Orvis Hydros SL Fly Reel. These reels are designed to handle the toughest saltwater conditions and provide the power and performance you need to land big fish.
Related: How Often Should Fly Line Be Replaced? Let’s Take a Look
Last Updated on November 5, 2023 by Get Fly Fishing