TFO NTR Fly Reel Review
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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.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fully-machined anodized aluminum construction
- Solid retrieval performance for most freshwater applications
- Comfortable and user-friendly design
Cons
- Muted drag offers little feedback
- Not the strongest drag strength for big game fishing
Who It’s For
Offered in sizes I through IV, the TFO NTR lineup covers line weights 4 through 10, meaning it’s appropriate for a vast array of freshwater fishing uses. From small trout setups to targeting trophy pike, the NTR is an affordable, fully-machined option for anglers who don’t need excessive drag strength.
Weight
The size 2 NTR weighs approximately 5 ounces, which is about average for large arbor trout reels. By comparison, the Orvis Hydros weighs 5.5 ounces, and the Sage Spectrum C weighs 4.88 ounces. Weights from 4.5 to 5.5 ounces tend to balance most 9' 5wt trout rods well. For a heavier reel to balance a longer euro nymphing rod or a trout spey setup, consider the Redington Tilt (7.7 ounces with included weights), though it costs about $90 more for the added heft." On the other hand, a click and pawl reel like the Redington Zero (2.7 ounces) is an ultra lightweight option for pairing with a short creek rod. For a majority of freshwater anglers, the NTR is an ideal weight.
Drag
The TFO NTR features an enclosed cork disc drag that offers about 2 pounds of maximum drag pressure in the size 2 model. Although this isn’t the most powerful freshwater drag system on the market, it’s frankly more than enough for most Trout and Bass fishing. Unless you’re putting the brakes on giant Musky or powerful Chinook Salmon, you shouldn’t worry about being undergunned with the NTR.
The TFO website describes this cork drag as sealed, but since it’s intended for freshwater use, we believe the seal may not be robust enough for saltwater. We’d advise against using the NTR in saltwater conditions. That said, its standard o-ring seal should keep the drag internals safe from silt and other debris you might encounter in rivers and lakes. With an occasional rinse, the drag should perform well for many years of use.
Sound
The NTR is a very quiet reel. The incoming retrieve is completely silent, while the outgoing direction has a soft, muted click. We tend to prefer reels with a bit more sound and presence, but this subtle drag might be just right for anglers who enjoy a quieter experience on the water.
Spool & Cage Design
Featuring a well-ported large arbor spool, the NTR offers a solid retrieval rate for a modern 5wt reel. We measured the size 2 spool and found a maximum diameter of 3.27 inches, an arbor diameter of 2.28 inches, and a 1.1-inch width. This results in about 7.75 inches of line pickup per turn, comparable to reels like the Orvis Hydros and Sage Spectrum C.
The NTR’s cage is straightforward—a lightweight, open design typical of most trout reels. The only downside of an open cage is that line pinch becomes a concern for thin euro leaders or running lines. If you’re running long mono leaders, you may consider a full-cage reel like the Greys Tail ($139).
Looks & Ergonomics
One of the highlights of the reasonably-priced NTR is its overall aesthetic. This is a fully-machined, anodized aluminum reel that frankly looks like a higher priced tool. Offered in silver or black, either option will feature gold-colored componentry. It’s a classy look without being too gaudy like some of the wild color combos from Cheeky.
TFO has put thoughtful attention into the ergonomic design of the NTR fly reel. It features a nice grippy drag knob and spool release knob, as well as a fully-machined handle, which is very uncommon for a reel at this price point. Overall, we’re impressed with the looks and practicality of the NTR.
Warranty
Value
Price: $189.95
We’d definitely put the TFO NTR in the ‘value’ category of fly reels. For under $200, you get a durable, anodized reel that delivers solid performance for most freshwater fishing needs. With its functional yet stylish design, it feels like a great deal for the price.
Conclusion
There’s a lot to like about the TFO NTR fly reel. Its large arbor design, machined aluminum construction, classy appearance, and thoughtful ergonomics make it a standout in the value category. While it may lack the powerful drag needed for giant King Salmon and isn’t suited for saltwater, it meets the needs of 99% of freshwater anglers. We do wish for a more audible drag click in future versions, though some anglers may appreciate the quieter sound. Overall, it’s a great value, especially in today’s era of rising gear prices. Whether you’re targeting Trout, Bass, Salmon, or Essox, the TFO NTR delivers solid performance and durability at a relatively low price.
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