Fly Fishing Reels
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Redington$219.00 ^Online Exclusive Online exclusive products are delivered directly from BCF and are available via home delivery. Stock may also be available in limited quantities at select stores. -
Redington$174.95 ^Online Exclusive Online exclusive products are delivered directly from BCF and are available via home delivery. Stock may also be available in limited quantities at select stores. -
Redington$174.95 ^Online Exclusive Online exclusive products are delivered directly from BCF and are available via home delivery. Stock may also be available in limited quantities at select stores.
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Fly Fishing Reels
Fly fishing reels are purpose-built for precision, balance and control. Unlike traditional reels that cast weighted lures, fly reels work as part of a finely tuned system — managing fly line, backing and drag while you present lightweight flies with accuracy. Whether you’re stalking trout in crystal-clear streams or chasing saltwater speedsters on the flats, a quality fly reel makes all the difference.
At BCF, we stock fly fishing reels from trusted brands known for smooth drag systems, durable construction and reliable performance in both freshwater and saltwater conditions. From lightweight graphite models for creek sessions through to fully machined aluminium reels built to handle aggressive runs, our range covers beginners through to experienced fly anglers.
When it comes to fly fishing, balance between rod, reel and line is everything, and choosing the right reel makes for smoother retrieves, better drag control and more confidence when a fish takes off.
Fly Reel Sizes Explained
Fly reel sizes are matched to your rod weight (wt), and getting this right is all about balance. A properly matched reel improves casting control, drag performance and overall feel on the water.
3–5 Weight (Light Freshwater Setups)
Best for small streams, creeks and light freshwater work. Perfect for targeting trout in alpine rivers, small bass in skinny water or redfin in dams. These reels are lightweight, balanced for finesse and ideal when presentation matters more than power.
6–8 Weight (All-Rounder & Estuary)
The most versatile setup for Australian conditions. Cracker for larger trout, Australian bass, golden perch and estuary species like bream and flathead. An 8wt can even step into light saltwater duties for whiting or small trevally. This range gives you more pulling power while still keeping things refined.
9–12 Weight (Saltwater & Big Fish)
Built for serious stopping power. These reels are designed for saltwater environments and hard-fighting species like queenfish, trevally, salmon, mulloway and even small tuna. You’ll get stronger drag systems, larger arbor designs and increased backing capacity to handle fast runs.
How do fly fishing reels work?
Fly fishing reels primarily store fly line and backing, but their most important job is managing drag when you hook a fish. When a fish runs, the reel’s drag system applies controlled resistance to prevent the line from snapping. Unlike spin or overhead reels, fly reels don’t generate casting distance; the fly line itself carries the weight needed to cast.
How do you cast a fly fishing reel?
With fly fishing, you’re casting the line, not the lure. The weight of the fly line loads the rod as you flick it back and forward in a controlled motion. The reel simply feeds out line as you strip or shoot it during the cast. Smooth timing and rhythm are key! It’s more about technique than power wit this kind of reel.
What is the 60/20/20 rule for fly fishing?
The 60/20/20 rule refers to building a tapered leader. In a standard tapered leader setup, roughly 60% of the total length is the butt section (the thickest part), 20% is the taper or midsection, and the final 20% is the tippet (the thinnest section). This taper helps move energy smoothly from the fly line down to the fly, allowing for better turnover and a more natural presentation.
How do you reel in a fish on a fly rod?
Once hooked, you’ll often strip line by hand at first. If the fish makes a strong run, allow the line to move onto the reel and let the drag system do its job. Keep steady pressure, use the rod to absorb shock and avoid sudden jerks. Smooth control wins every time!
Where can I use my fly reel?
Fly reels can be used in a wide range of Aussie locations — from freshwater rivers, alpine streams and stocked dams chasing trout, to estuaries, mangroves and saltwater flats targeting species like bream, bass, whiting and even queenfish or GTs. As long as you’ve matched your reel and setup to the environment, fly fishing opens up plenty of options.
Are fly reels worth it?
Absolutely — especially when matched correctly to your rod and target species! A quality fly reel gives you smoother drag performance, better balance and improved durability. When you hook a hard-fighting fish, you’ll quickly appreciate the difference a well-built reel makes!
