Fly Fishing - Saltwater Fly Rod, 12 Weight

spoonser · Newbie Joined: Aug 16, 2007 Posts: 2

just out of curiosity, do people still use this old standby reel? I know a lot of advances have been made in reel technology, but in reality, the fly reel remains fairly low-tech compared to spinning tackle.

TUnaMas · Newbie Joined: Feb 19, 2007 Posts: 1

I know anglers that still use 'em, and yes, fly reels remain "low tech" relative to casting and spinning reel advancements. Much is driven by the market, so not many manufacturers want to defy the IGFA 1:1 rules (Hence the new Tibor handle which attempts to accomplish something similar without changing gearing). But as Saltwater ff has grown, there is no denying that anodizing has gotten better, arbors have gotten larger, capacities have grown (especially to accomodate spectra backings), drags have improved and bearings are sealed, etc.. There are lots of reasons for a new reel, but none of those discount that a medalist in the right hands can still get in done once or twice. The issues I'd focus of would be durability and drag, and the medalist will be down on the list of "best reels" in either category. My first striper was caught with a medalist in the early 70's, but if I was headed out for week destination trip, it's not the reel I'd want!