Patrick B

Redington has replaced the beloved Rise fly reel with the new Ace: their latest do-it-all freshwater fly reel at a very reasonable price. We were excited to give the Ace a test spin, and in this review we take a deep dive into its important features like spool design, drag strength, weight, and ergonomics. If you’re looking to replace your old Rise, or you’re on the hunt for a solid freshwater reel that won’t break the bank, check out our full review of the Redington Ace fly reel below. We cut through the marketing chaff so you can make an informed buying decision based on the features that really matter to you, your fishing needs, and your budget.

The Scott Session series is the latest addition to Scott Fly Rods’ lineup, offering “fast with feel” performance at an accessible price point. Designed to fill the gap left by the Flex series’ discontinuation in 2021, the Session series introduces a fresh take on mid-priced fly rods from a brand better known for its premium models, such as the G-Series, the Radian, and the beloved Centric.

With a more attainable price than the flagship Centric series, the Session provides exceptional value for freshwater anglers looking for solid performance without the premium price tag. In this review, we examine the entire 11-rod Session lineup, providing essential details for each model. From best uses to line pairings, plus our casting notes from the field, this guide will help you make an informed decision when choosing the right model for your fishing. Keep reading to discover what makes this mid-priced series from Scott Fly Rods a unique option for various freshwater fishing applications.

Nautilus Fly Reels have garnered an almost cult-like following thanks to reels like the CCF-X2, GTX, and the X-Series. Known for their incredibly strong drag systems and meticulous attention to detail, these USA-made reels are some of the most coveted in the game, but new models don’t come around often. Nautilus has introduced the GTS, a versatile fresh/salt fly reel and their first new model in nearly five years. This reel bridges the gap between saltwater and freshwater use. Keep reading to learn more about the new Nautilus GTS fly reel, including who it’s for, and whether it’s worth the price tag.

Gearing up for a saltwater fly fishing trip can be an expensive undertaking, with premium rods alone coming in at over $1,000. Fortunately, there are some excellent rods that deliver top-tier saltwater performance at a reasonable price. In this review, we’ll dive into the best value saltwater fly rods of 2025, including what they’re designed for and some pros & cons for each. Whether you’re just getting started in saltwater fly fishing or you’re a veteran who’s searching for economic options, this article will help you get the best fly rod for your hard-earned money.

The Hardy Marksman has proven itself to be one of the most popular premium freshwater rods of 2024. When we reviewed the 9’ 5wt, we were impressed with its low swing weight and pinpoint accuracy for what is widely considered to be a softer presentation rod. Now we’re taking it a step further and breaking down the full Marksman lineup, shedding light on the lesser-known models in this 15-rod series. Whether you’re targeting spring creek Trout, Great Lakes Steelhead, or back slough Pike, there’s a Hardy Marksman model to fit your needs, and we’re here to tell you all about it. Keep reading for our full thoughts on the Hardy Marksman fly rod series, including each model’s best uses, recommended line pairings, and which model impressed us most.

TFO has built a strong reputation as the everyman’s fly rod manufacturer over the past several decades. With favorites such as the BVK, Axiom II, and the Lefty Kreh Pro Series, TFO rods have become synonymous with affordability and reliable performance. However, many anglers are less familiar with TFO’s range of fly reels, including the NTR (No Tools Required) model, which is the focus of this review. The NTR is a budget-friendly reel offering respectable performance and solid build quality for freshwater fishing. Read on to see if the TFO NTR fly reel meets your needs and fits your budget.

In a world where fly reel prices seem to climb higher every year, finding a reliable, budget-friendly option can be challenging. Fortunately, Echo has introduced the Base fly reel, one of the most affordable reel models available on the market. But don’t let the price tag fool you – this reel packs in some impressive features for an entry-level price point. In this review, we’ll cover the pros and cons of the Echo Base, including its drag system, weight, spool design, and more. Whether you’re new to fly fishing or looking for a cost-effective addition to your quiver, this review will help you decide if the Echo Base is the right choice for you.

The Zane Carbon Fly Reel is Hardy’s mid-priced big game saltwater fly reel. Designed to take on flats species from Bonefish and Permit to Snook and Tarpon, the Zane Carbon offers solid performance at a fraction of the price of the Fortuna Regent. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Hardy Zane Carbon, comparing it to other mid-priced saltwater reels to see how it stacks up. Could this be one of the best value reels at the mid-range price point? Keep reading to find out.

As the fly fishing season winds down for the northern hemisphere, things are just ramping up in Argentina. Many of the country’s lodges and outfitters operate from November through April, with some opening earlier and some later depending on conditions. We recently reached out to a handful of our Argentine lodge and outfitter partners to get a comprehensive outlook for the 2025 season. If you’ve been holding off on booking your Patagonia fishing trip, now is the time to make an informed decision based on current and projected conditions, and secure your preferred dates. Read along as we dive into several key regions of Argentina, including snowpack levels and when to expect the best fishing opportunities this season.

The Orvis Battenkill fly reel series has been synonymous with affordability and reliability for many years. The newest iteration of the Battenkill Disc carries forward this ethos, maintaining classic design elements and its hallmark sturdy drag. Although mostly unchanged from a structural standpoint, Orvis has made a few upgrades to the new Battenkill Disc including aesthetic elements and ergonomics. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Orvis fly reels, or you need a hardworking drag for an affordable price, this review will help you decide if the Orvis Battenkill Disc is the right choice for you.