Hardy Sovereign Fly Reel

Initially created in the year 1987 and in production into the 90s, Hardy’s Sovereign Fly Reel is back with updated performance while maintaining that classic Hardy appearance and sound. Combining top-notch reliability with a modern Rulon disc drag, the Sovereign allows you to fine-tune your drag setting when tougher fish like salmon and steelhead are on the agenda, and when a fish starts pulling line and you’ve got to act fast, an ergonomic drag knob makes things nice and easy while elegant harmonics keep you smiling. The Sovereign series of reels is crafted in Alnwick, England out of bar stock aluminum, and is made in weights 5-6 though 9-10, providing versatility across the series with an ability to accommodate anything from a classic bamboo stick to the reliable two-hander that you’ve been sticking steelhead on for decades. A traditional reel with all of the performance that you could ask for, the Sovereign still holds up to this several-decade-old quote from a previous Hardy catalog: “There’s only one word to describe the Sovereign Reel - Magic!”

Design

Traditional Design w/ Standard Arbor - Whenever Hardy set out to reproduce their original Sovereign Reel, they wanted modern performance without sacrificing the heritage of the reel. This led Hardy to craft a very similar look to the previous model while maintaining the standard arbor that these more traditional reels are known for. 

Finish 

Deep Anodized - Made with an anodized aluminum finish, the Sovereign offers durability without an outdated weight. This deep anodization ensures reliable durability for years to come, while also having a look that adds a classy touch. Whether you opt for the Black or Spitfire colorway of this reel, you can rest easy knowing that it’s going to look just plain beautiful. 

Materials
Barstock Aluminum - The Sovereign Reels are crafted from a high-quality barstock aluminum. This choice aids in durability and ensures that you’ll be using this reel for many years to come. 

Drag

Rulon Disc Drag - When you’re fishing for strong fish like steelhead, the Rulon disc drag on Hardy’s Sovereign is there to make things nice and easy. Made from Rulon, this disc drag is durable, stable, and powerful enough for just about any freshwater fish, and with a hard stop at roughly 1.4 turns, you can dial in your drag setting exactly how you like–add in a comfortable drag knob and exquisite sound and this reel is ready for any battle.  

One thing to note, this drag system is not sealed, so should you get it into saltwater, be sure to give it a very thorough cleaning. 

Materials - Hardy crafts the Sovereign’s disc drag out of Rulon. This material choice is both durable and reliable. 

Arbor Size

Standard Arbor - With the Sovereign being such a classic reel, it doesn’t offer the large arbor that more modern reels are known for, instead, you get a standard arbor that won’t offer the line pickup that large arbor reels do, however, for freshwater application, this reel is a fine choice, even with its standard arbor. 

Warranty

Hardy Warranty - As of February 2024, Hardy’s Sovereign Reel has a 5-year warranty (or the period of time mentioned in the leaflet that accompanies your reel packaging) that covers defects in material, craftsmanship, and design. If you encounter issues unrelated to Hardy’s manufacturing, Hardy will service your reel for a cost of $35 plus replacement parts–Hardy reserves the right to quote the cost of replacement parts on a case-by-case basis. 

More Info

Best for: All Water, Nymphing, Dry Flies, Streamers

Arbor Size: Standard