There are two basic types of reels used in the sport of fly-fishing. One is the “pawl-drag” reel and the other is the “disc-drag” reel.

Most beginners will be using the pawl-drag reel because it is the least expensive and least complicated reel to use. There are even a lot of fly-fisherman using pawl-drag reels that have been fly-fishing all of there life. What it all boils down to is preference.

Pawl Drag Reels are lighter in weight and are what some people consider to be the “True Fly Reel” because they tend to offer an older style drag that isn’t meant to stop the fish from running, but is meant to stop the line from free-spooling and getting tangled up. When more stopping power is needed you simple apply pressure to the rim of the reel with the palm of your hand.

What more important is that the reel has an exposed rim. An exposed rim is where the rim of the reel is on the outside of the reels body. This is critical when buying a fly reel, otherwise you have no real means of controlling a run away fish.

Pawl drag reels can cost as little as $25 and as well over $300. What is important is to get one that had a adjustable drag, with a fair amount of tension. Ask us to show you some examples.

Disc drag reels tend to be heavier and more expensive than pawl drag reels, because there is more to them. Although they are by no means necessary, some fly-fisherman prefer them because of their smoother, more adjustable drag action. They can range in price from as little as $60 and well over $700. One noticeable disadvantage of disc drag reels is their weight, because of the added hardware, they tend to be at least 25% heavier compared to a similar model pawl drag.

There are also anti-reverse, automatic and multiplier reels available, if your interested in more about these reels just ask.