Fly Reels Under $200 Compared

What To Expect From Fly Reels Under $200

If you’re new to fly fishing, then you're probably wondering what to expect when you buy and use your new reel. Luckily for you, fly reels are probably the simplest of all fishing reels.

You’ve your spool which holds your fly line, some thinner line for backing, and a small handle on the side for retrieval. More expensive fly rods will have higher quality materials and components, but there are still many good quality reels available for under $200.  

How Do You Pick Fly Reels Under $200

Type of Target Fish & Location Environment

One of the biggest perks of fly fishing is that you can do it anywhere. From freshwater lakes and rivers to saltwater shores and streams, you can cast and catch a range of species with the right rod and reel.  

A lot of fly anglers try to catch trout, grayling, or salmon when in freshwater. Whereas in saltwater, you can catch anything from bonefish, spotted sea trout, tuna, and striped bass. Whatever you decide on catching, make sure your reel, rod, and bait are perfectly matched for the fight.

Fly Fishing Skill & Experience Level

Power & Durability

A $50 fly reel may operate the same way as a $500 reel, but the primary material, drag system, and corrosion or weather-resistant properties determine if it’s strong and reliable.  If you know you’re solely focusing on saltwater fishing, then be sure your drag is fully sealed and that it's constructed of corrosion-resistant materials (like aluminum).  

Another good tip, whichever size fly reel you choose, make sure you stick with its’ recommended line and max drag. This will ensure you’re getting the most power and durability without pushing the reel too much.

Speed & Smoothness

If you want buttery-smooth line retrievals and a fast rate, then it’s crucial to match your fly reel to the right sized fly rod. If they aren't matched correctly, you'll find the line may begin to build up in the spool.

In return, your rod will feel jerky, and you risk snapping your line during a catch. By selecting a reel that makes your fly rod and reel feel balanced, it will prevent arm, finger, and hand fatigue, so you can fish for longer.

Reel Features

Retrieval Systems

When it comes to fly fishing, the three types of retrieval systems are the single action, multiplying fly reel, and automatic fly reel.

Freshwater fly anglers tend to stick with single-action retrieval systems as it’s easy to use, and it's perfect for catching large species, like largemouth bass. For saltwater, the best retrieval system tends to be an automatic fly reel for its fast and effective line retrieval. 

Line Weight & Spool Size

Your fly line weight will determine what you can fish for. If your reel is too small, it won’t hold heavier lines on the smaller spool size. Fly reels with a line weight of 8+ than your reel should be strong enough for powerful, large fish in saltwater and freshwater applications.

No matter which line weight you decide on, make sure your spool size is either mid-large in size. This will ensure you’ve enough space for your line and backing when fishing.

Warranty

1. Sage Fly Spectrum C 5

The first reel on our list for the best reel for under $200 is the Sage Fly Fishing Spectrum C Fly Reel. This model has been recently reinvented to suit more fly fishing anglers over a range of applications.

Sage’s “One Revolution Drag Knob '' with numbered and detented settings helps anglers to test different control levels until landing on their preferred one. This fly reels’  easy enough for any novice fly fisherman to master with its thoughtfully planned out features and materials.

What we loved the most about the Spectrum C fly reel is its durability and performance when out on the water. It's composed of a lightweight aluminum die-cast material and a machined, anodized aluminum drag knob and handles. It’s also finished with a powder coat, so the surface will be protected and corrosion-resistant.

The large arbor on this reel is worth mentioning, as well. It has a vented concave design, so line retrievals are smoother and faster. With a choice of 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, or 9/10, there’s sure to be a size to suit novice, intermediate and experienced anglers. For the best fly reel under $200, we loved the 5/6 size, and we use it in fresh and saltwater environments.

The only downside to this reel is its hand orientation. The Spectrum C was created with right-handed anglers in mind, but you can convert this reel to suit left-handers, but it requires a little more work during setup. If this isn’t a problem for you, then you’re bound to love this fly reel for fly fishing.

2. Redington RISE 7/8

Our runner up for the best fly reel on a budget is the Redington RISE fly reel. Redington is one of the leading competitors within the fly fishing sport, so it’s no surprise their reel comes in the second spot. Constructed from CNC machined and anodized aluminum, this reel is durable through-and-through and can last years right off the bat.

The carbon fiber drag system works impeccably on this fly reel. Thanks to its materials and to the fact it’s sealed, it makes the RISE fly reel a perfect match for fresh and saltwater applications. You can trust that the internal features will be protected no matter where you're fishing.

Some other features worth mentioning are the ultra-large arbor design, twin molded, soft-touch ergonomic handles, and an oversized drag knob for easy adjustments, even when wearing gloves.

Storing and traveling with this reel will be a lot easier as well as it comes with a nylon reel case and weighs a mere 5.1 ounces. You have got a choice between 5 colors and 4 sizes, but for us, the 7/7wt was a perfect match for our saltwater excursion. We hope you’ll love taking this 7/8 sized fly reel to rivers, lakes, streams, and beaches just as much as we did.

3. Piscifun Platte 9/10

4. Redington BEHEMOTH 11/12

Bigger reels will catch bigger fishes; it’s a simple fact. But, there are not many fly reels in the 10-12wt with enough drag to withstand the pull of a rainbow trout or a tarpon.

The Redington Behemoth fly reel has a top-of-the-line drag system that puts many of its competitors to shame. The reels' carbon fiber drag can be easily adjusted by its oversized drag knob, even when wearing gloves in cold weather.

The construction of this fly reel is quite impressive, too. It has a unique Die-cast construction with a matte finish. You’ll get to choose from 5 color options to match your equipment better.

Not only does it excel at sturdiness and variety, But it’s also protected against saltwater corrosion and harsh weather conditions. We found this fly reel to be one of the most pleasing to the eye as well. You’ll catch the attention of other anglers with this reels’ aesthetic design.

Match these features and good looks with a large arbor, twin-molded handles, and with an excellent price tag, and you’ve got yourself a remarkable fly fishing reel for larger fish. It’s our top pick for the best 12wt fly reel for under $200. If you like catching large game fish, we’re sure you’ll love it, too.

5. Waterworks-Lamson Liquid Fly 7+ (6-8 wt)

The next fly reel on our list is the unique Lamson Liquid Fly Fishing Reel by WaterWorks. We loved how well the 7+ fly reel operated. It holds 6-8wt. line, and can catch trout, largemouth, smallmouth, small saltwater fish, and small salmon, too. Once you unpackage your new fly reel, you’ll see 1 reel, 2 spools, and a carry case. It’s great value for money for any novice or intermediate fly angler.

The large-shaped arbor has a novel design. Usually, they’re shaped in a 360 design, whereas the Lamson Liquid Fly Fishing Reel is shaped in a U. This helps prevent line stacking when the line runs on or off the spool fast. The sealed conical drag works well, too, and all of this is housed in a pressure-cast aluminum frame.

With two color options, and 4 sizes available, there aren’t too many choices for anglers. But WaterWorks different suffice on durability and performance. Having more than one spool is a big bonus as it allows you to be better prepared before getting to the water.

Maybe you want a spare spool for a different line, or you’re hoping to keep a hold of it in case of emergencies. Either way, this combo pack proved to be excellent value, especially if you’re interested in a 6-7wt fly reel. 

6. Cheeky Fishing Tyro 375 DIA

Fly Fishing Tips For Beginners

People also Ask (FAQs)

Can fly reels get wet?

Whether you’re fighting some splashback or it starts to rain in the middle of a catch, your fly reel is bound to get wet. That’s why it’s important to consider materials that are rustproof or have weather-resistant or corrosion-resistant features. Stick with materials like aluminum and stainless steel, and be sure your drag system is completely sealed for better protection.

How to take care of fly reels?

What is the difference between saltwater and freshwater fly reels?

The biggest difference between the two is that saltwater reels can withhold a lot more varieties of line. They’re also built to withstand the eroding factors within saltwater. They have anodized protection to fight against corrosion and tend to be a bit bigger and stronger. On the other hand, freshwater reels are dependable, easy to use and work well with lines up to 20 lbs.

Where can I find quality fly reels for sale under $200?

Conclusion