2008-04-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

This reel was born from the numerous requests from spey casters from all over the world. Some said a 4" reel didn't look proper on a 15'+ rod. Some stated that they needed more line capacity and some even requested more weight. My philosophy is that the anglers know what they want and need, so I got to work right away. My inspiration came not only from these suggestions, but also the origins of spey fishing and the incredible River Spey in Scotland, a place I've only dreamed of fishing. After pondering all of this, and the need for a larger spey reel, I sat down and hand sketched the design. I didn't sleep at all (for several nights!) waiting to get back to the shop to machine out this beauty. After hand turning the reel, my only thought was that I was definitely keeping one of these for myself! The thing that struck me the most about this reel is its graceful hour glass curved profile transitioning smoothly down to the winding plate. It's almost indecent.

The River Spey will be largest and sturdiest reel that I have seen made in a very long time. Created to satisfy the needs of the most demanding spey casters, my 4" model will practically fit inside this one's cage assembly. This fly reel would be great on a 15 to 18 foot spey rod and will have the mass to balance out with both class and grace.

The straight spool offers much more room than other reels of this style which gives it a ridiculous line capacity and will fit double taper and long belly lines of any size with ease, with ample spool room to spare. This reel is also available with the Snake Roll upgrade and the full line of winding plate options. Each reel has the standard fixed screw that is permanently attached to the spool and stainless steel 41,000 RPM ball bearings.

I am very excited to be able to offer The River Spey Reel to you. This is the next step in providing real choices to long rod spey casters that want a truly classic looking pawled reel.