syow25 0 Report post Posted September 13, 2012 i'm looking for my 1st salt reel. My budget allows 200 bucks. What would you buy and why. I would be nice to get extra spool also.thanks Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
flytire 0 Report post Posted September 13, 2012 I'm not recommending them (have never used one) but folks on here and other forums swear by them allen reels http://www.allenflyfishing.com/reels/ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bluegill576 0 Report post Posted September 13, 2012 Allen reels are pretty good, but my favorite are the Lamson reels. I think the Guru is under $200. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
troutguy 0 Report post Posted September 14, 2012 Saltwater eventually ate my Medalist 1498. I did last twenty years. I replaced it with one from Basspro. A TFO Prism 9-11. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Chefben4 0 Report post Posted September 14, 2012 I use Allen. Saltwater and freshwater. Love em for the money. Great customer service too! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
agn54 0 Report post Posted September 14, 2012 I have an Orvis Battenkill Mid-Arbor that I really like, cost about $150 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Peterjay 0 Report post Posted September 14, 2012 You actually have a pretty good selection, and you'll probably hear about every one of them. Just get the best reel you can afford. If you have to include an extra spool in your budget, it's just gonna mean a downgrade in quality. If it were me, I'd check out what Orvis is selling. I've had really good luck with their low-end reels, and their customer service can't be beat. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
williamhj 0 Report post Posted September 14, 2012 The larger Gurus are a touch over 200, but they are great reels (very light). The Orvis Access saves you a bit of cash. Haven't used one but love my Battenkill Bar Stock on my 2wt and Mid Arbor for my 8wt. Both companies stand behind their products. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites