Best Fly Fishing Reels 2026
Best Fly Fishing Reels 2026
The right fly reel isn't just a line holder — it's the difference between landing the fish of a lifetime and watching it swim away. We tested and scored the top reels on the market so you don't have to guess. Here are the best fly fishing reels of 2026, ranked by GearScore.
Quick Comparison Table
| Rank | Product | GearScore | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pflueger Medalist | 95.00/100 🏆 Platinum | All-around trout, bass & saltwater |
| 2 | Abel TR | 91.00/100 Platinum | Premium freshwater & light saltwater |
| 3 | Mako 9700B | 90.00/100 Platinum | Offshore and big-game fly fishing |
| 4 | Ross Evolution LTX | 90.00/100 Platinum | Technical freshwater applications |
| 5 | Hardy Marquis LWT | 88.00/100 Gold | Classic lightweight trout fishing |
| 6 | Orvis Hydros V | 88.00/100 Gold | Versatile everyday fly fishing |
Top 3 Full Reviews
#1 — Pflueger Medalist | GearScore: 95.00/100 🏆 Platinum
The Pflueger Medalist earns the top spot in 2026 with a precision-machined frame, a buttery-smooth disc drag system, and a large arbor design that delivers fast, efficient line retrieval when a fish makes a run. It transitions seamlessly from freshwater trout streams to saltwater flats, making it one of the most versatile fly reels in its class. The drag engagement is consistent under load — no stuttering, no surprises — which is exactly what you need when a brown trout or redfish decides to bolt. Build quality is exceptional, and the reel's balanced weight distribution reduces fatigue during long casting sessions.
Range to Reef Take: The Pflueger Medalist is the benchmark. If you want one reel that handles virtually any fly fishing scenario with zero compromises, this is it.
#2 — Abel TR | GearScore: 91.00/100 Platinum
The Abel TR is a hand-crafted American-made reel that sets the standard for fit, finish, and drag performance in the premium segment. Its sealed disc drag is silky smooth across the full range of adjustment, giving anglers precise control whether chasing wild trout or light-tackle saltwater species. The large arbor design minimizes line memory and keeps retrieve rates fast, a genuine advantage when fighting an aggressive fish at close range. Abel's attention to machining tolerances is evident the moment you pick this reel up — it simply feels like a precision instrument.
Range to Reef Take: The Abel TR is a lifetime reel. The 91.00 GearScore reflects serious performance and unmatched craftsmanship — well worth the investment for dedicated fly anglers.
#3 — Mako 9700B | GearScore: 90.00/100 Platinum
The Mako 9700B earns its Platinum GearScore with a robust large arbor frame built to handle the demands of big fish and saltwater environments. Its disc drag system delivers powerful, consistent stopping power — the kind you need when a tarpon or tuna is peeling line at full speed. Corrosion-resistant components mean this reel holds up in harsh offshore and estuary conditions without compromising performance over time. The 9700B is purpose-built for serious saltwater fly fishing, and it shows in every detail.
Range to Reef Take: If big-water and big-game fly fishing is your focus, the Mako 9700B at 90.00/100 is a top-tier tool that won't let you down when the stakes are highest.
The Rest of the Field
#4 — Ross Evolution LTX | GearScore: 90.00/100 Platinum
The Ross Evolution LTX matches the Mako's 90.00 GearScore but shines brightest in technical freshwater settings, offering an ultra-smooth disc drag and refined large arbor design tailored for precision presentation. It's a strong choice for anglers who demand high performance on tailwaters and spring creeks without the added bulk of a saltwater-focused reel.
#5 — Hardy Marquis LWT | GearScore: 88.00/100 Gold
The Hardy Marquis LWT brings legendary British reel heritage into a modern lightweight package, earning a well-deserved Gold-tier 88.00 GearScore. Its smooth drag and nimble profile make it a go-to for trout anglers who prioritize feel and balance on the water.
#6 — Orvis Hydros V | GearScore: 88.00/100 Gold
The Orvis Hydros V rounds out the list at 88.00/100 Gold with a versatile, dependable performance that suits a wide range of fly fishing applications. It's a reliable everyday reel backed by Orvis's trusted reputation and strong warranty support.
Fly Fishing Reel Buying Guide
1. Drag System Quality A smooth, consistent disc drag is the single most important feature in a fly reel. Look for sealed systems that handle both freshwater and saltwater conditions without corrosion or drag spike — especially critical when fighting fast, powerful fish.
2. Arbor Size Large arbor reels retrieve line faster and reduce line coiling caused by memory. For most modern fly fishing scenarios — from trout streams to saltwater flats — a large arbor design is the practical choice and standard among top-rated reels.
3. Weight and Balance A reel that's too heavy throws off the balance of your rod and fatigues your casting arm over a long day. Match reel weight to your rod weight class, and prioritize machined aluminum construction for the best strength-to-weight ratio available.
Final Verdict
The Pflueger Medalist sits alone at the top of the 2026 rankings with a GearScore of 95.00/100 — a versatile, precision-built reel that performs at the highest level across species and environments. The Abel TR (91.00) and Mako 9700B (90.00) are worthy Platinum alternatives for anglers with specific freshwater or saltwater needs. All six reels on this list earned Platinum or Gold GearScores, meaning there are no bad choices here — only the right choice for your fishing style. Do your homework, match the reel to your target species, and invest in quality drag performance above all else. Your backing knot will thank you.
GearScores are determined by the Range to Reef scoring system. Visit fromrangetoreef.com for full methodology and updated rankings.
Affiliate disclosure: Range to Reef earns commissions on qualifying purchases through our links at no extra cost to you. GearScore rankings are independent and not influenced by affiliate relationships.
