
Even if you’re a beginner angler, you’ll soon realize there are many different fly reel manufacturers. While this guide will focus on the top-rated fly reels made in the United States, let’s dive into the details.
Key Takeaways
Here are the five key takeaways from the article “Top-Rated Made in USA Fly Reels” by Fly Fishing Delta:
- Sage, Galvan, Orvis, and Ross Reels are four top-rated fly reel manufacturers based in the United States.
- Sage is renowned for its lightweight and durable rods, reels, lines, waders, and other accessories.
- Galvan Fly Reel offers affordable yet high-quality fly reels with an elegant design and reliable drag system.
- Orvis is a family-owned company that offers fly fishing products, hunting gear, and sporting goods while promoting the connection with nature.
- Ross Reels has earned a reputation for producing some of the most reliable and durable fly reels on the market due to their rigorous product testing procedure.
SAGE – Made in USA Fly Reels
Sage is a renowned fly fishing rod company that was founded in 1980 by the legendary rod designer Don Green. With a mission to create the best performance fly rods, Green pieced together some of the world’s finest fishing equipment using first-rate materials. The company was originally named Winslow Rod Company and is still based on Bainbridge Island, Washington State, USA. From only six employees and a manufacturing space covering about 1,500 square feet, Sage has grown into a company of 175 workers occupying a 30,000-square-foot space.
Sage is considered one of the best fly fishing rod companies in America with an impressive range of products for all skill levels. Their rods are designed to be lightweight yet durable and are crafted from high-quality materials such as graphite and titanium. They also offer reels, lines, waders, and other accessories to complete your setup. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, Sage has something for everyone who loves to fish.
Galvan – Made in USA Fly Reels
Bonifacio Galvan founded the Galvan Fly Reel company in 1992 when he designed the first prototype. He was a machinist and used his skills to create a rugged, lightweight, and smooth reel with a reliable drag system. When it was ready for distribution in 1994, it was one of the most affordable options on the market without sacrificing quality. The company is still based in Sonora California, USA where all of their fly reels are manufactured and assembled.
Galvan Fly Reel has been driven by Bonifacio’s desire for perfection since its inception nearly three decades ago. Despite this drive for excellence, they have maintained their original simplicity and elegant design that made them so popular when they first hit the market. Their commitment to quality and affordability has kept them at the forefront of fly fishing gear ever since.
Orvis – Made in USA Fly Reels
Orvis is a family-owned fly fishing company made in the USA fly reels that has been in business since 1856. Founded by Charles F. Orvis, the company has become a leader in the world of fly fishing equipment and outdoor life. With its headquarters located in Sunderland, Vermont, Orvis offers more than just fly fishing products; they also provide hunting and sporting goods for those who love the great outdoors.
The brand goes beyond simply selling products to helping people live more fulfilling lives through their connection with nature. With over 1,700 employees and 69 retail stores worldwide, Orvis is dedicated to providing quality products that allow customers to create meaningful experiences with the natural world. Whether it’s through fly fishing or other outdoor activities, Orvis strives to make sure everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature in their own unique way.
Ross Reels – Made in USA Fly Reels
Ross Reels is a renowned fly fishing reel manufacturer made in the USA fly reels that has been in business since 1973. Founded by aerospace engineer Ross Hauck, the company has earned a reputation for producing some of the most reliable and durable reels on the market. After starting out in California, they shifted base to Montrose, Colorado about a decade later.
The secret to their success lies in their rigorous product testing procedure. Every reel must pass through this process before it can leave the factory. This includes both automated tests as well as manual tuning of the clicker and drag system by human testers. This attention to detail has resulted in an extremely low return rate for service out of hundreds of thousands of shipped reels—a testament to their quality and durability.
Still curious? Here is an article fly reels made in the USA will help you