Tibor Back Country Wide
This is one of my favorite reels. The solid face of the reel gives it a timeless look that will never go out of style. The small wristwatch-like drag knob on the side provides even more style versus the traditional center mounted knob. With its unique Constalube drag system it provides a smooth drag with a gentle amount of start up inertia to not break off that ten pound bone.
Mako by Jack Charlton
This reel is pure class in every aspect. Charlton’s reels have gained an elite status similar to Pappy Van Winkle’s 25 Year Reserve. It’s one of, if not the best reels on the market. The Mako reel has a premium carbon drag that can handle everything from Mediterranean bluefin tuna to giant Central American jungle tarpon. Plus, it might be one of the only reels that actually increases in value. Just tell your significant other it’s an investment and you’re golden.
Loop OPTI Speedrunner
The Speedrunner has a wicked fast retrieve rate for getting back line in a hurry. It has a low maintenance, sealed drag and is fairly light at only 6.2 ounces. I use this reel the most out of my 30+ reel collection when fishing for giant bonefish throughout the world. It has served me especially well in Indonesia, Hawaii and the Maldives when I fished a six or seven weight.
Nautilus FWX
The Feather Weight Extreme is a reel that everyone must have. It contains a drag that can stop a submarine and is the lightest of my entire bonefish collection weighing only 4.2 ounces. Made in the USA, it is really a hassle free product. No matter where you fish, you can’t beat the light weight and reliability.
Orvis Mirage
I began fishing a Mirage after retiring an old Battenkill Mid-Arbor that had served me well in freshwater. The Mirage is a fine reel for saltwater use and has been handy in catching stripers, blues, albies and bonefish. It’s advantages include a fully sealed drag as well as a drag knob that has firm detents making for secure settings. The Mirage V can comfortably hold 225 yards of 30 lb. Dacron and an intermediate or sinking tip line. Despite not being made in the U.S., the reel functions beautifully and is by all measures a tough, reliable companion.
I Have Been Reading About All The Raves On Hatch And Nautilus Saltwater Fly Reels. Are They Really That Much Better Or Is This Tellirude And Yellowstone Dealer Hype? I Can Afford Any Reel But Know That The Price Of Anything Does Not Reflect The Ability Of A Product To Do A Excellent Job. Is It Possible To Stay With One Brand Of Reel For All Species Of Fish, Bone, Permit And Tarpon Or Different Companies For Different Fish? Thank-You For Reading, Frank
Hi Frank,
I think with any fly fishing product there is a certain degree of preference involved. Most of the major brands of reels perform very well, and our crew use many different types of reels. Regarding the brands you listed, Hatch and Nautilus, they are both very good reels with very smooth drags and prefered by many because they are strong without weighing a lot and both companies offer excellent customer service.
To answer your specific question, yes, you can get one brand of reel for all of your fishing needs. Most manufacturers have a complete line of reels from a 2/3 all the way up to a 14/15.
There are a few on our team who only fish certain rods and reels. They have the same rod in 4 weights and reels to match. Being a part of a media company, I believe that it is our obligation to continue to try new reel manufacturers and new styles to stay current with the industry. We took some Einarsson reels with us on our recent outing to South Andros and they performed surprisingly well and are very smooth and pleasant to fish. Our suggestion is to find what you like and use it…if it fails you replace it. I sincerely hope that helps, email us if you would like a more candid response.
Joe
Reply