fly fishing reel reviews 2015

Orvis CFO lll Fly Reel Made In England (not Hardy, Abel, Bauer, Ross)

The Orvis CFO III Fly Reel is a classic, high-quality fly fishing reel known for its simplicity, durability, and elegant design. Here’s what you should know about the “Made in England” version:

Key Features:
– Heritage & Craftsmanship – The CFO (C.F. Orvis) series has a long history, originally designed in collaboration with Stanley Bogdan, a legendary reel maker. The “Made in England” versions were produced by J.W. Young & Sons, a renowned British reel manufacturer.
– Materials & Construction – Features a fully machined aluminum frame and spool, ensuring lightweight yet robust performance.
– Click-and-Pawl Drag – A traditional, smooth, and reliable drag system (not a disc drag), preferred by many purists for its simplicity and classic feel.
– Size & Weight – The CFO III is a mid-sized reel, ideal for 4-6 weight fly lines, making it perfect for trout and small-stream fishing.
– Aesthetic Appeal – Known for its satin silver finish, minimal branding, and timeless look.

“Made in England” vs. Later Versions:
– The English-made CFOs (pre-1990s) are highly sought after by collectors and anglers due to their superior craftsmanship.
– Later versions were produced in the USA or Asia, but the English-made models are often considered the best in terms of precision and durability.

Collectibility & Value:
– Vintage “Made in England” CFO III reels in good condition can fetch $300–$600+ on the secondary market, depending on rarity and condition.
– Look for markings like “J.W. Young & Sons” or “Made in England” on the backplate.

Orvis CFO lll Fly Reel Made In England (not Hardy, Abel, Bauer, Ross)

Modern Alternatives:
– If you’re looking for a similar modern reel, Orvis still produces the CFO series, but they are now machined in the USA with updated materials.

Would you like help identifying a specific model or determining its authenticity?

Vintage Silver Wave Reel Bakelite Fly Reel

Vintage Silver Wave Reel Bakelite Fly Reel

# **How to Choose the Vintage Silver Wave Reel Bakelite Fly Reel**

When it comes to fly fishing, the right reel can make all the difference. The **Vintage Silver Wave Reel Bakelite Fly Reel** from **KyleBooker** is a classic choice for anglers who appreciate both performance and vintage aesthetics. Whether you’re a seasoned fly fisherman or a beginner looking for a reliable reel, this guide will help you understand why the **Silver Wave Reel** stands out and how to choose the best one for your needs.

## **Understanding the Vintage Silver Wave Reel**

The **Vintage Silver Wave Reel** is crafted from **Bakelite**, an early form of plastic known for its durability and lightweight properties. This material was widely used in vintage fishing reels, making them highly collectible today. The **KyleBooker** version combines this classic design with modern functionality, ensuring smooth drag and reliable performance.

### **Key Features to Look For:**

1. **Material & Construction**
– **Bakelite Body**: Offers a lightweight yet sturdy build, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions.
– **Metal Components**: The spool and internal gears are typically made of corrosion-resistant metals, ensuring longevity.

2. **Drag System**
– A smooth drag is crucial for fly fishing. The **Silver Wave Reel** often features an adjustable **click-and-pawl drag**, providing enough resistance to tire out fish without breaking delicate tippets.

3. **Size & Weight**
– Fly reels should balance well with your rod. The **Silver Wave Reel** comes in various sizes (2/3, 4/5, 6/7) to match different rod weights.
– A lighter reel is ideal for small streams, while a slightly heavier one provides better balance for larger rods.

4. **Retrieval Mechanism**
– Most vintage reels have a **single-action retrieve**, meaning one full handle rotation equals one spool rotation. This simplicity reduces mechanical failures.

5. **Aesthetic & Collectibility**
– The **Silver Wave Reel** has a distinct **art deco-inspired design**, making it a favorite among collectors.
– Look for reels with minimal wear, intact logos, and smooth operation to ensure value retention.

## **Why Choose the KyleBooker Vintage Silver Wave Reel?**

KyleBooker has refined this classic design with **premium materials** and **precision engineering**, ensuring that anglers get the best of both worlds—vintage charm and modern reliability.

### **Best Uses for the Silver Wave Reel:**
– **Trout & Panfish**: Perfect for small to medium-sized fish in streams and rivers.
– **Dry Fly Fishing**: The smooth drag helps maintain delicate presentations.
– **Collectors & Enthusiasts**: A must-have for those who appreciate classic fishing gear.

## **Final Tips for Choosing the Right One**
– **Check for Smooth Operation**: Spin the reel to ensure no grinding or sticking.
– **Inspect for Damage**: Cracks in Bakelite or rust on metal parts can affect performance.
– **Match to Your Rod**: A well-balanced setup improves casting accuracy.

The **KyleBooker Vintage Silver Wave Reel** is more than just a tool—it’s a piece of fishing history. Whether you’re using it for its performance or displaying it as a collector’s item, this reel delivers both style and function.

**Ready to add this classic to your gear? Visit KyleBooker’s official store today!** 🎣

Excellent Hardy "The St Aidan" 3 3/4" Salmon / Sea Trout Alloy Fly Reel -Classic

Excellent Hardy "The St Aidan" 3 3/4" Salmon / Sea Trout Alloy Fly Reel -Classic

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# **How to Choose the Excellent Hardy “The St Aidan” 3 3/4″ Salmon/Sea Trout Alloy Fly Reel – Classic**

When it comes to salmon and sea trout fishing, having the right reel is just as crucial as selecting the perfect fly. The **Hardy “The St Aidan” 3 3/4″ Alloy Fly Reel** is a timeless classic, blending durability, precision engineering, and elegant design. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a passionate beginner, this reel deserves serious consideration. In this guide, we’ll explore its key features, benefits, and why it stands out in the world of premium fishing gear.

## **1. Heritage & Craftsmanship**
Hardy has been a trusted name in fly fishing since 1872, and **”The St Aidan”** reel continues this legacy. Handcrafted in England, this reel is built for anglers who appreciate tradition and performance. Its classic design pays homage to Hardy’s historic reels while incorporating modern advancements for smooth operation.

## **2. Superior Build & Materials**
Constructed from **high-quality alloy**, this reel offers an optimal balance of strength and weight. The 3 3/4″ size is ideal for salmon and sea trout fishing, providing sufficient line capacity without being overly bulky. The **durable anodized finish** ensures corrosion resistance, making it perfect for both freshwater and saltwater conditions.

### **Key Features:**
– **Precision-machined spool** for smooth drag performance
– **Large arbor design** for faster line retrieval
– **Classic click-and-pawl drag system** (optional check mechanism)
– **Sturdy construction** to withstand aggressive fish fights

## **3. Performance on the Water**
The **Hardy St Aidan** excels in real-world fishing scenarios. Its **smooth drag system** ensures consistent pressure when battling strong salmon or sea trout. The **large arbor** reduces line memory and allows for quicker retrieves, which is crucial when a big fish makes a sudden run.

Additionally, the **classic click sound** provides satisfying feedback, letting you know when a fish is taking line—a nostalgic touch that many anglers love.

## **4. Why Choose This Reel?**
– **Timeless Aesthetic:** The sleek, polished look complements any high-end fly rod.
– **Reliability:** Hardy’s reputation for quality means this reel will last for generations.
– **Versatility:** Suitable for both salmon and sea trout, making it a great all-around choice.

## **5. Pairing Suggestions**
To maximize performance, pair this reel with a **9-10 ft. #7-9 fly rod** for salmon or a lighter setup for sea trout. A quality **floating or sinking line** (depending on conditions) will complete your rig.

## **Final Thoughts**
The **Hardy “The St Aidan” 3 3/4″ Alloy Fly Reel** is more than just a fishing tool—it’s a piece of angling history. Whether you’re chasing Atlantic salmon in Scotland or sea trout in Scandinavia, this reel delivers **durability, performance, and elegance** in one package.

For anglers who demand the best, the **St Aidan** is a worthy investment. Visit **[KyleBooker’s official website](#)** (replace with link) to explore this and other premium fishing gear.

**Tight lines and happy fishing!**

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