Our Final Sale — Get up to 75% off while you can!
We're saying goodbye, but you get to save big! Check out our clearance page for massive discounts on all products.Most Recommended Fly Reels under $150
Updated
Sometimes you need great fly reels on a budget. Curated experts make sure to take each fisher's budget into account every time they make recommendations. This list brings together their top recommendations for fly reels under $150. Want a more personalized pick? Don't forget to talk to a Fly Fishing expert to receive advice and recommendations on the best reels for your needs.
By Fishing ExpertsAaron, Boone, Lawson and others
The Orvis Hydros Fly Reels are a high-performance, durable and dependable choice for both novice and expert anglers. They are lightweight with a large arbor and a fully sealed clutch bearing drag for quick line retrieval. They are ideal for trout fishing and offer a great drag ratio. The reels are also rated for 3-5wt rods and offer solid performance. They are not recommended for lighter trout applications, most saltwater fishing, and shark fishing.
by Curated experts Cory G, Baily Dent, Kendrick Wilson
Ideal for
- Novice and expert anglers
- Trout fishing
- Fishing with 3-5wt rods
- Anglers looking for a durable and dependable reel
- Anglers needing quick line retrieval
Not ideal for
- Lighter trout applications
- Most saltwater fishing
- Shark fishing
Redington Behemoth Series Fly Reel
See Price and DetailsThe Redington Behemoth Series Fly Reel is a heavy-duty, versatile reel that is perfect for both fresh and saltwater fishing. It's a great fit for 5/6 or 7/8 weight rods and is known for its large arbor for fast pick-up speed. The reel's unique, un-machinable, die-cast construction coupled with a super heavy-duty carbon fiber drag system offers strength, reliability, and performance. It's an affordable option that comes in a variety of colors, making it a top choice for fly fishermen who need a powerful reel that doesn't need to be used all the time but can handle larger fish when needed.
by Curated experts Matt Beam, Jeff Henderson, Lawson T.
Ideal for
- Freshwater fishing
- Saltwater fishing
- Use with 5/6 or 7/8 weight rods
- Fly fishermen needing a powerful reel
- Those who appreciate a variety of color options
Not ideal for
- Those who need a lightweight reel
- Those who frequently fish in saltwater (due to durability concerns)
- Those who dislike wide spools that may allow line stacking and tangling
Redington Run Reel
$60.00
$119.99
50% off
The Redington Run Reel is a top pick for those seeking a lightweight, yet powerful fly reel. Its carbon drag system is designed to handle a variety of conditions, making it suitable for both fresh and saltwater fishing. The large arbor design and quick line retrieval are key features that enhance its performance. Despite being a die-cast reel, it offers impressive stopping power and durability, making it a great entry-level reel for large freshwater species and smaller inshore species.
by Curated experts Jeff Henderson, Jesi Scott, Kendrick Wilson
Ideal for
- Freshwater and saltwater fishing
- Anglers seeking a lightweight reel
- Fishing dries, nymphs, and smaller streamers
- Anglers who value quick line retrieval
- Entry-level anglers targeting large freshwater species and smaller inshore species
Not ideal for
- Anglers seeking a machined reel
- Fishing in big waters
- Fighting large fish
- Anglers seeking a state of the art drag system
PROGRESS
What is your level of fly fishing experience?
The Lamson Liquid Fly Reel is a top-notch choice for those seeking a high-quality, American-made reel without breaking the bank. Its smooth drag, large arbor design, and durability make it a favorite among trout fishermen. The reel's conical drag system and high-speed line retrieval rates are standout features. However, it's not the best for fishing big streamers due to its die-cast aluminum make-up and non-full cage design.
by Curated experts Matt Beam, Aaron Tate, Joe Price
Ideal for
- Trout fishing
- Those who appreciate smooth drag
- Anglers who value high-speed line retrieval
- Fishing enthusiasts looking for American-made quality
Not ideal for
- Fishing big streamers
- Those who prefer a full cage design
- Anglers who prefer a larger drag knob
Redington Rise Series Fly Reels
$110.00
$219.99
50% off
The Redington Rise Series Fly Reels are a top pick for anglers looking for a lightweight, durable, and reliable reel. Its machined aluminum design offers the perfect balance of weight and durability. The reel's large arbor design and saltwater-friendly feature make it a great choice for fishing the flats. Its carbon fiber drag system is smooth and strong, making it ideal for reeling in your next big catch. Despite its lightweight, it can handle larger fish if needed. It's also easy to clean, making it a practical choice for regular use.
by Curated experts Brek L, Boone Tullett, Davis B.
Ideal for
- Anglers looking for a lightweight and durable reel
- Fishing in saltwater conditions
- Reeling in larger fish
- Regular use due to its easy-to-clean feature
- Those who prefer a high-class feel as it is fully machined
Not ideal for
- Very large fish or small light applications
- Those who prefer a louder reel
Lamson Guru S Fly Reel
$145.00
$289.99
50% off
The Lamson Guru S Fly Reel is a top-notch choice for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking a high-performance reel without breaking the bank. Its lightweight, large arbor design ensures quick and easy fly line pick up. The reel's strong, sealed drag system provides a smooth start up inertia, making it an all-purpose reel suitable for most fishing conditions. However, it may not be ideal for finer lines due to its non-full cage design.
by Curated experts Joseph Smith, Skyler B
Ideal for
- Fly fishing enthusiasts looking for a high-performance reel
- Anglers seeking a lightweight, durable reel
- Those needing a reel with a strong, sealed drag system
- Individuals requiring a reel for most fishing conditions
Not ideal for
- Anglers using finer lines
The Orvis Clearwater LA Reel is a top-notch choice for those starting out in fly fishing or those on a budget. Its smooth, easily adjustable disc drag system, lightweight build, and large arbor for quick line retrieval make it a standout. It's particularly well-suited for freshwater fishing, including trout, bass, and bluegill, and pairs well with a 5wt fly rod. However, it's not recommended for saltwater use due to its unsealed drag system.
by Curated experts Joseph Smith, Matt Beam, David W.
Ideal for
- Beginners in fly fishing
- Budget-conscious anglers
- Freshwater fishing
- Trout, bass, and bluegill fishing
- Use with a 5wt fly rod
Not ideal for
- Saltwater fishing
- Heavy-duty fishing like salmon or steelhead
Sage Spectrum Fly Reel
$150.00
$300.00
50% off
The Sage Spectrum Fly Reel is a high-performing, durable reel that offers a large line capacity and a smooth, steady drag system. Ideal for chasing large, line-hogging fish, it's a perfect match for any quality fly rod. Its CNC machine aluminum construction ensures longevity, and it's particularly suited for bass and most inshore salt species. However, it may not be the best choice for tarpon or holding oversized line for the reel.
by Curated experts Bob P., Franklin Jones, David W.
Ideal for
- Anglers seeking a high-performing, reasonably priced fly reel
- Those who need a large line capacity and a smooth, steady drag system
- Anglers chasing large, brutish fish
- Bass fishing and most inshore salt species
- Matching with any quality fly rod
Not ideal for
- Tarpon fishing
- Holding oversized line for the reel
Lamson Remix Fly Reel
$110.00
$219.99
50% off
The Lamson Remix Fly Reel is a perfect blend of quality craftsmanship and reliable performance. Its sealed conical drag, large-arbor design, and sleek look make it a top choice for anglers. It's ideal for medium to heavy freshwater applications, offering a smooth disc drag system for fighting big fish on delicate tippet. This reel is also praised for its durability, withstanding many seasons on the water. It's a great all-around trout fishing reel, offering excellent value for money.
by Curated experts Connor McCollum, Kendrick Wilson, Jade F.
Ideal for
- Medium freshwater applications (trout, bass, etc.)
- Heavy freshwater applications - steelhead, salmon, pike, musky
- 9-11 weight saltwater rods
- Multi-species fishing
- Anglers seeking value for money
Not ideal for
- Use on a rod heavier than a 6 weight
- Use with anything smaller than an 8 weight rod
The Temple Fork Outfitters NTR Fly Reel is a top-rated choice for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Its lightweight, durable, fully machined design and smooth cork drag system make it a standout. The reel's wide open ported design prevents water build-up, keeping the setup dry. However, its wide spool design may allow line stacking, and it's not a full cage design, which could lead to line snagging. Despite these minor drawbacks, it's an affordable, reliable reel that offers great value for money.
by Curated experts Matt Beam, Rylyn S., Danny Salinas
Ideal for
- Freshwater and saltwater fishing
- Anglers looking for a durable, lightweight reel
- Those who prefer a smooth cork drag system
- Anglers who need a reel that can handle tough conditions
Not ideal for
- Those who prefer a full cage design to prevent line snagging
- Anglers who prefer a narrower spool to prevent line stacking
Other lists to consider
Curated experts can help
Have a question about the article you just read or want personal recommendations? Connect with a Curated expert to find exactly what you are looking for!Result Summary
- Orvis Hydros Fly Reels
- Redington Behemoth Series Fly Reel
- Redington Run Reel
- Lamson Liquid Fly Reel
- Redington Rise Series Fly Reels
- Lamson Guru S Fly Reel
- Orvis Clearwater LA Reel
- Sage Spectrum Fly Reel
- Lamson Remix Fly Reel
- Temple Fork Outfitters NTR Fly Reel
Which Fishing product is right for you?
Get personalized recommendations from a certified gear expert. Take a short quiz to get started!