Fly Reel Size and other Considerations

This used to be fairly automatic. Match weight of rod with reel, and line. This is still true today. Although many manufacturers now tout weight of fly reels, and less fatigue you will have after a day of fishing. I am skeptical that a couple of ounces of weight from fly reel will make that much difference to your fatigue factor. Although I do agree, that ‘feel’ should be correct, and if possible try out your fly reel on your rod before purchasing. Or if you purchase reel from same manufacturer as your rod, they should be counter balance each other, and ‘feel’ should be perfect.

Another size consideration is arbor size. Even on trout reel 5 wt. or less, large arbor reels are available. Large arbor reels store line in larger coils, thereby minimizing line memory, which allows for longer casting. They also increase drag consistency, since spool isn’t spinning as often, a very nice benefit when using disc drag reel. And retrieve rate is faster than standard reels as well.

One last consideration is ease of spool changes, most moderate to expensive fly reels now all are easy to switch out spools, so you can switch from floating to sinking line, or what ever changes you like to make. But it doesn’t hurt to try it out before purchasing, and also check to see how much spare spools are, while you’re at it.

Summary

Fly reels, like all aspects of fly fishing has come along way, in functionality, specialization, and price. Although due to improved manufacturing techniques, it is still possible to get a decent fly reel for about 100 bucks. You also can spend a small fortune, to decorate your fly fishing ensemble as well. As for brands, I recommend sticking to major names, and review warranties offered. The bigger names will be around, and extra spools will be available for many years to come. Don’t forget craftsmanship, Cabela’s for one, puts it’s name on some reels that really don’t pass muster. Although their mid-range reels are some of my favorites. I have liked every Orvis reel I ever fished, and there are many other names out there to choose from. All things being equal choose one whose ‘feel’ you like best. Then you should be happy with your purchase for years to come.

Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. One of best in anybody's book. 6,503 Yards with 132 slope. Located on old rice fields in Pawleys Island. The practice is mat into net and you can walk anytime. It is a spikeless facility. Designed by Mike Strantz. The Dunes - you must stay in a hotel that offers The Dunes as a package or have a good friend who is a member. It's a long course, 7,165 yards with 141 slope from championship tees. A grass practice area, no walking and it is a spikeless facility. Heather Glen Golf Links - 27 holes up in Little River, a grass practice area, no walking and spikeless. The designers were William Byrd and Clyde Johnston. Very much a links course.

Heritage Club, Pawleys Island. One of Larry Young's first ventures and a very successful one at that. 18 holes, par 71. Grass practice, no walking and spikeless.  International World Tour, just as name implies - replicas of some of most famous holes to give you an adventure in golf. Augusta National's Amen Corner, Pine Valley, St. Andrews, Winged Foot - try them all in one day! Off 707 Corridor. You can walk course anytime and yes it is spikeless. Litchfield Country Club - you'll never tire of playing this course. Just a great all around course. Designed by William Byrd. 6,752 yards, par 72. You can walk with a paid cart and it is spikeless.

Pawleys Plantation - Jack Nicklaus' effort in Pawleys Island. Not too tough, not too easy, just a good game of golf. The great Phil Ritson's Golf School is located here. There is no walking and it is spikeless.  Pine Lakes International CC - just for old times sake! Enjoy all ambience of old days. Maybe even here bagpipes calling. 18 holes par 71. 6,700 yards from championship tees, slope is 130. No walking and spikeless. The River Club - Pawleys Island. Practice mats into net, walk if you want with a paid cart and spikeless. Tom Jackson designed this course and you will like it! TPC Myrtle Beach - 6,950 yards - slope from 122 to 145 at back tees. Tom Fazio designed course. You can walk course when you take out an electric cart. And you can still wear spikes. Tradition Golf Club - Pawleys Island 18 holes and a par 72. Slope 129 from back tees. You can walk in off-peak season. It's spikeless. Designed by Ron Garl. A pleasant course. True Blue Golf - This course is now more player friendly - designed by Mike Strantz, it's 6,842 yards from back tees and a slope of 145. (slope of 127) from tees that we use. You can walk course anytime. Great lunches and spikeless! Wicked Stick Golf Links - Surfside Beach 18 holes and a par 72. Grass, mats for practice. Walking off peak - you can wear your spikes. John Daly designed it along with Clyde Johnston. The Witch over in Conway is also a fun place to play. 18 holes and a par 71. Slope from 109 to 133 at 6,702 yards. Dan Maples design. There is no walking and you can wear spikes. A reasonable course to play. Remember most of these and following Myrtle Beach golf courses can be included in a myrtle beach golf package. We can do whole thing or just book a golf tee time. you let us know!

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