After drying their wings mayflies fly to a nearby shrub, tree or bush. Not being very good fliers, their two or three tails, are thought to aid in stabilizing them, though to our eyes they appear like a lot for them to maneuver and carry. Here duns molt into a second adult phase called spinners. Their second pair of wings now fully developed, they are also sexually mature. After a few hours or up to a day, they usually , though not always, return to over water, where they mate. The males will swarm, and females fly into swarm and choose their mate.

After mating females lay their eggs, and both male and female die. Trout also key on this stage as ‘spent wing’ spinners give mayfly one last chance to ‘offer’ itself to awaiting trout. From our point of view it is hard to deny that mayfly’s life is nothing but a gift to wild trout. And recognition of this fact centuries ago was a gift of one careful observer to generations of fly fisher’s that have followed.

Fly Reel Size and other Considerations

This used to be fairly automatic. Match weight of rod with reel, and line. This is still true today. Although many manufacturers now tout weight of fly reels, and less fatigue you will have after a day of fishing. I am skeptical that a couple of ounces of weight from fly reel will make that much difference to your fatigue factor. Although I do agree, that ‘feel’ should be correct, and if possible try out your fly reel on your rod before purchasing. Or if you purchase reel from same manufacturer as your rod, they should be counter balance each other, and ‘feel’ should be perfect.

Another size consideration is arbor size. Even on trout reel 5 wt. or less, large arbor reels are available. Large arbor reels store line in larger coils, thereby minimizing line memory, which allows for longer casting. They also increase drag consistency, since spool isn’t spinning as often, a very nice benefit when using disc drag reel. And retrieve rate is faster than standard reels as well.

One last consideration is ease of spool changes, most moderate to expensive fly reels now all are easy to switch out spools, so you can switch from floating to sinking line, or what ever changes you like to make. But it doesn’t hurt to try it out before purchasing, and also check to see how much spare spools are, while you’re at it.

Summary

Fly reels, like all aspects of fly fishing has come along way, in functionality, specialization, and price. Although due to improved manufacturing techniques, it is still possible to get a decent fly reel for about 100 bucks. You also can spend a small fortune, to decorate your fly fishing ensemble as well. As for brands, I recommend sticking to major names, and review warranties offered. The bigger names will be around, and extra spools will be available for many years to come. Don’t forget craftsmanship, Cabela’s for one, puts it’s name on some reels that really don’t pass muster. Although their mid-range reels are some of my favorites. I have liked every Orvis reel I ever fished, and there are many other names out there to choose from. All things being equal choose one whose ‘feel’ you like best. Then you should be happy with your purchase for years to come.