| There are three general types of fly reels:
Automatic -Most automatics are very bulky and heavy, have to
many moving parts, and therefore can be unreliable, and have minimal
line capacity. Moreover, it is not possible to control a good fish
with an automatic fly reel. Any fish apt to run out much line can
become a nightmare when played from an automatic reel. In saltwater
fly fishing an automatic reel is an absolute no-no. Most saltwater
fish would quickly tear up an automatic fly reel.
Multiplying -A multiplying fly reel has a spool that turns
two or two and a half times for each revolution of the handle. An
advantage of the multiplying reel is that line can be recovered, or
respooled, more quickly than with a conventional single action reel.
Not to many multiplying reels are made, and they are, in fact,
considered to be illegal gear in many fishing tournaments.
Single Action -Single action fly reels are lighter than most
other fly reels, and they have few moving parts, so not much can go
wrong. They have great line capacity, interchangeable spools can be
obtained for most models, and the better single action reels have
reliable drags.
Ideally, a fly reel should be light yet sturdy, with a minimum of
parts, no exposed screws that can loosen up or fall out, an adequate
drag, and ample line capacity. The first thing to look for in any fly
reel is sturdy construction. The best practical design would be a one
piece frame and reel shoe, coupled with a one piece die cast spool.
Reels built with a lot of nuts, bolts and screws can be trouble. These
parts can become rusty, and they may need constant tightening and
checking to prevent them from becoming lost.
The shoe, or foot, of a fly reel must be strong and fastened to the
frame solidly to prevent loosening, twisting, or breaking. Most good
reels have shoes lock screwed into place, or they are riveted. Reel
spools must be extremely strong with a drag that works smoothly with
no hesitation or building.
No matter what the make, material, or cost of a fly reel, good ones
are of simple design, with instant takedown, preferably without the
use of tools. Such a reel can be cleaned and oiled easily so that it
can be kept in tip top condition.
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