Best Fly Fishing Reel Under 100 2023

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

It’s that time of year again when the fishing gear starts to come out of storage and it’s time to start thinking about what new gear you might need for the upcoming season. If you’re like me, then you’re always looking for ways to save money, but you don’t want to sacrifice quality.

Best Fly Fishing Reel Under 100 Reviews

If you do, then you know that having the right gear is important. In this blog post, we’ll share our top-rated fly fishing reels for under 100 dollars. Whether you’re just getting started or are looking for an affordable option, we’ve got you covered! So, without further ado, let’s get started!

1# Greys Fin Fly Reel

Greys Fin Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 3/4, 7/8, 9/10
Color: Black
Weight: 5.7 oz., 6.9 oz., 8.6 oz.

The Greys Fin fly reel is a professional-grade product that offers top-of-the-line performance. It features die-cast, machine-finished construction for durability and perfect polish, and it comes with a large arbour spool that speeds up retrieves. The full disc brake system ensures controlled stops, while the enclosed frame prevents lines to escape. Plus, it comes in a protective reel pouch for easy transport and storage.

Pros
  • Die-cast and machine finished construction provides perfect polish and durability

  • A large arbour spool speeds up retrieval time

  • A full disc brake system ensures controlled stops

  • The enclosed frame prevents the line to escape

Cons
  • There is no option for a release

2# Greys QRS Fly Reel

Greys QRS Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 2/3/4/5, 5/6/7/8, 9/10/11/12
Weight: 5.5 oz., 6.0 oz., 10.1 oz.

The Greys QRS Fly Reel is a versatile and durable reel that is perfect for a variety of fishing situations. With a quick-change cassette system, this reel can be easily switched out to meet your needs. The included four cassettes (two of each line size) make it easy to be prepared for any fishing adventure. The full bar-stock 6061 aluminium frame is strong and sturdy, while the adjustable Rulon disc drag provides smooth and consistent drag. The clear polycarbonate spools with line-identification pins make it easy to keep track of your line. This reel also comes with a protective neoprene pouch to keep it safe when not in use.

Pros
  • It is versatile and durable

  • It comes with four cassettes that can be easily switched out

  • The full bar-stock 6061 aluminium frame makes it strong and sturdy

  • Adjustable Rulon disc drag provides smooth, consistent drag

  • Clear polycarbonate spools make it easy to track line

Cons
  • This reel does not come with any spare parts

3# Cabela’s Prestige II Fly Reel

Cabela's Prestige II Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 3/4, 5/6, 7/8
Weight: 5.3 oz., 5.5 oz., 5.9 oz.
Color: Black/Gunsmoke

Looking for a great fly reel that won’t break the bank? Check out the Cabela’s Prestige II Fly Reel. This reel is perfect for anglers of all experience levels, with its rugged all-aluminium construction and large arbour design. The smooth, easy-to-adjust disk drag system is a breeze to use, and the simple right-left conversion makes it a versatile choice for left- or right-handed anglers. Get out on the water and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve got a great reel at a great price.

Pros
  • Rugged all-aluminium construction

  • Large arbour design

  • Smooth, easy to adjust disk drag system

  • Simple right-left conversion

Cons
  • It is not ideal for small streams

4# White River Fly Shop Dogwood Canyon Fly Reel

White River Fly Shop Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 3/4, 7/8
Weight: 5.3 oz., 6.1 oz.
Color: Gray

The White River Fly Shop Dogwood Canyon Fly Reel is a top-of-the-line reel that’s built to handle big fish. The large Rulon disc drag provides smooth braking performance, while the cast-aluminium construction is strong and lightweight. The V-cut spool seats line evenly, for easy stripping and proper drag operation. This reel is a great choice for serious anglers who demand the best.

Pros
  • Lightweight design

  • Large arbour for faster line retrieval

  • Ultra-smooth drag system

  • Aircraft-grade aluminium construction

  • Easy to use and maintain

Cons
  • Not durable

5# Orvis Clearwater Fly Reel

Orvis Clearwater Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 4/5/6, 7/8/9
Weight: 5.5 oz., 6.3 oz.
Color: Gray

The Clearwater Fly Reel from Orvis was designed for the modern angler. It features a positive click drag knob for precise adjustment, even in the heat of battle, as well as a diecast frame with a stealthy matte-grey finish. The large arbour design ensures fast line retrieval and less tangling, while the Rulon and stainless steel inline disc drag deliver consistent performance.

Pros
  • Diecast frame with a stealthy matte-grey finish

  • Positive click drag knob for precise adjustment

  • A large arbour design ensures fast line retrieval and less tangling

  • Rulon and stainless steel inline disc drag deliver consistent performance

Cons
  • It is not the best option for larger fish

6# Cheeky PreLoad Fly Reel

Cheeky PreLoad Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 2/3/4, 5/6, 7/8
Weight: 3.9 oz., 5.1 oz., 5.6 oz.
Color: Black/Gunmetal

The Cheeky PreLoad Fly Reel is the perfect choice for anglers who want a high-quality reel that comes pre-loaded and ready to fish. No spooling or pre-rigging is required, and the lightweight, durable large-arbour design is perfect for a variety of fishing conditions. The diecast frame and body with machined components are extremely durable, and the quick-change spool with B2 Backing Channel ensures smooth, powerful drag. The reel comes pre-loaded with backing, WF floating line, and a leader, making it easy to get started. Left/right conversion is simple, and the included custom reel case ensures your reel stays in great condition.

Pros
  • No spooling or pre-rigging is required

  • The lightweight, durable large-arbour design is perfect for a variety of fishing conditions

  • Diecast frame and body with machined components are extremely durable

  • Quick-change spool with B2 Backing Channel ensures smooth, powerful drag

  • Pre-loaded with backing, WF floating line, and a leader

  • Left/right conversion is simple

  • Included custom reel case ensures your reel stays in great condition

Cons
  • None

7# Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Black Label Fly Reel

Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Label Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 3/4, 5/6, 7/8
Weight: 4.3 oz., 4.6 oz., 4.9 oz.
Color: Black/Silver

Temple Fork Outfitters NXT Black Label Fly Reel is great for those who demand affordability and performance. A machined, cast aluminium ported frame ensures a lightweight yet durable reel, while the machined handle drag knob and spool release provide high-quality construction. Plus, the reel is easily convertible to left- or right-hand retrieve to fit your needs. It even comes with a TFO neoprene reel pouch for added protection.

Pros
  • Lightweight and durable

  • Machined construction for quality

  • Convertible to the left or right-hand retrieve

  • Comes with a neoprene reel pouch

Cons
  • The drag isn’t the strongest in all settings

8# Pflueger Automatic Fly Reel

Pflueger Automatic Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 6/7/8
Color: Black

Are you looking for a top-of-the-line, efficient fly fishing reel? Look no further than the Pflueger Automatic Fly Reel! This reel is made with an aluminium alloy frame and spool for durability and features stainless steel mainspring, reel foot, and line guard for maximum efficiency. The mainspring release and fold down trigger make this reel easy to store, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Pflueger Automatic Fly Reel is the perfect choice for your next fishing adventure!

Pros
  • This fly reel is easy to operate and perfect for novice anglers

  • It’s made with a strong and lightweight graphite construction that makes it durable and long-lasting

  • The large arbour aids in quick line retrieval, while the soft-touch knob provides a comfortable grip when wet

  • It is backed by a limited lifetime warranty

Cons
  • It is quite a large reel, making it difficult to take on small trips

9# White River Fly Shop Classic Large Arbor Fly Reel

White River Fly Shop Classic Fly Reel

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Line Weight: 7/8
Color: Black/Pewter

The White River Fly Shop Classic Large Arbor Fly Reel is a top-quality reel forged and machined from frame to spool. The in-line multi-disk drag system is enhanced by a one-way roller bearing, providing a precise 720-degree range of adjustment. This reel also includes a drawstring bag for storage and transport.

Pros
  • The reel is forged and machined from frame to spool

  • The in-line multi-disk drag system is enhanced by a one-way roller bearing

  • Provides a precise 720-degree range of adjustment

  • Includes a drawstring bag for storage and transport

Cons
  • The reel feels a bit too light

FAQ

What should I look for in a fly fishing reel?
When looking for a fly fishing reel, you’ll want to consider its weight, size, and the species of fish you plan to catch. Heavier reels are generally better for larger fish, while smaller reels are better for smaller fish. Additionally, consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing—fly fishing for trout in a stream will require different equipment than fly fishing for bass in a lake.
Why are fly fishing reels different?
Fly fishing reels differ from baitcasting and spinning reels in that they have a free spool. This means that when you stop or release a line, the handle of a fly reel is open to facilitate casting, unrolling and retrieving.
Does the colour of the fly line matter?
The colour of the fly line doesn’t matter as much as the colour of the fly. The line is typically clear or light in color so that it is less visible in the water. The fly should contrast with the background to make it more visible to fish.

Conclusion

Best Fly Fishing Reel Under 100 is a great way to save money and still have the best fly fishing reel for your needs. We hope you’ve learned something from this article about what features are important in choosing a good fly fishing reel, as well as some of our favourite models that fit into different price ranges. If you’re looking for more information on fly fishing gear or other outdoor products, check out our blog! You can also contact us with any comments below – we’re happy to help!

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

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About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

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