Reels Are Just For Holding Line Right?

This is what I was told when I first started fly fishing. For the most part, it is correct… sort of… :) When fishing in your local streams and catching smaller trout ranging from 6 to 15 inches, I feel that the quality of the reel doesn’t play a huge factor in your enjoyment of the sport. These fish will not really test the strength of the reel or rod and can usually be stripped in rather easily. Where the reel and drag capabilities will be tested is once you start getting into some larger fish. Trout over 15 inches, carp, and bass will test your technique and your gear. Having a reel with a more reliable drag system will be the detail that keeps you hooked up on your catch.

There are all kinds of good reels out there. I use a Konic reel as these are very cost effective and offer many of the same features that other high-dollar reels provide. You will spend ~$100 to $150 for a Konic, but from my experience so far, they are a bargain compared to some of the Sage and Orvis reels out there with the same features and quality. The choice is yours. The key point here is to start using a reel with a quality, reliable drag system so that the trophy trout that you are after gets successfully landed and you enjoy your day on the river.