Thread: Reels for trout

Reels for trout fishing are a bit confusing with all the brands and models out there. For many years I just used Scientific Anglers System 2 reels and did fine, they were relatively inexpensive and never felt I lost a fish because of the reel and its drag system. Two years ago I upgraded to Tioga reels, a little better quality. Lately I have been thinking of upgrading again for something more expensive then wondered, why would I want to do that. I never lost a fish on either because of the reel. So what is the justification for sepending
$300 to $500 for a trout reel unless I just want more toys. Can someone give me an answer to that ?

Catch a nice fish on a Hardy Bougle' with no drag other than Click Pawl and the question will answer itself.

I don't need no stinking drag....

ralph

Originally Posted by Eagle Claw

I just want more toys. Can someone give me an answer to that ?

I think you pretty much summed it up... He who dies with the most toys, WINS!!!

I purchased a Charlton reel about a year ago. It's a really nice reel with an amazing drag system on it. Did I need that reel? Probably not, but when I put it on my rod it makes me feel good.

I have a few Hardy reels, Orvis reels, a Sage reel, and an STH.

I personally don't like noisy reels. My Hardy reels sound like New Years Eve noise makers. I know I could have purchased a cheaper reel than the Charlton, but I figured what the hell... and purchased it.

Unless you're going to use the reel for salmon/steelhead/saltwater (big fish), there's no practical reason to get a high end reel. You'd be better off using the extra money to upgrade your rod and/or line.

However, the use of finely crafted equipment may add an intangible ascetic appeal to the fishing experience.

In the 1970s Berkley and Diawa were selling a clone of the Hardy Lightweight series for less than $20.00. It looked just like a Hardy and was just as functional, (the spare spools were interchangeable). But there was something about the sound and "feel" that just wasn't the same.

Originally Posted by dcabarle

I personally don't like noisy reels.

Ditto for me. I'm very picky about that. I purchased (and since sold) a Tioga Teton, Abel TR/2, and a Ross Colorado reel in the past two years.

My favorite reels are my Ross Evos and Rhythm.

I've disabeled all out going noise on all my reels.

Originally Posted by dcabarle

I purchased a Charlton reel about a year ago. It's a really nice reel with an amazing drag system on it. Did I need that reel? Probably not, but when I put it on my rod it makes me feel good.

I have a few Hardy reels, Orvis reels, a Sage reel, and an STH.

I personally don't like noisy reels. My Hardy reels sound like New Years Eve noise makers. I know I could have purchased a cheaper reel than the Charlton, but I figured what the hell... and purchased it.

Some times you need to spend a little money to save more money.

Spend the extram money for a reel one will be satisfied with and you probably never need another trout reel again in your life.

As for noisey reels they just draw attention to productive spots. The noise of my flyline ripping throught the water as it kicks up a roster tail is much nicer to me then a fly reel clickity clacking.

i am on the ross reels pro staff and i know that they make good mid priced fly reels. take a look at the rhythm. really nice reel for the price!!!

Sometimes you just feel good about having nice stuff..You work hard, enjoy what you have.

Regards,
Oliver Drab

If you enjoy fishing with a high end reel and can afford it why not? However, I for one can't justify spending hundreds of dollars on a reel to catch 10"-12" trout. A $40.00-$50.00 reel will do a fine job. If however you are fishing saltwater or going after steelhead or salmon, it would be wise to purchase the best reel you can afford.

5/6 ocuma sierra reel it is exellent i bought last year for about 200$

Upgraded to Ross Evolution Real - Nice light quiet mechanically fine real. I like it when things seem mechanically fine.