Ever felt that sinking feeling when your line snags, and you realize you don’t have the right setup for the water you’re fishing? Many anglers face this challenge. Choosing the perfect fly fishing reel is tough enough. Adding spare spools into the mix can make the decision even more confusing. Do you need one? Which type is best? These questions often lead to wasted time and sometimes, missed fish.
This is where understanding reels with spare spools becomes a game-changer. Having an extra spool lets you quickly switch between different lines—like a heavy sinking line for deep rivers and a light floating line for high mountain streams—without re-spooling your entire reel. It saves you time on the water and lets you adapt instantly to changing conditions.
By the end of this guide, you will know exactly what features to look for in a reel package that includes spare spools. We will break down the benefits, show you the best value options, and help you select the perfect setup for your next adventure. Get ready to cast with confidence!
Top Fly Fishing Reels With Spare Spools Recommendations
- 【INSTANT LINE CHANGE COMBO, READY-SET-GO】The combo includes one fly fishing reel, two spare spools, and a premium storage case. It allows users to pre-install different line setups and quickly switch configurations on site according to various water conditions and fishing needs.
- 【MATERIALS & CRAFTSMANSHIP】The fly reels are made of aircraft-grade bar stock aluminum. The reel frame and spool are CNC precision machined; polished and hard anodized surface treatment sets for maximum durability and increases abrasion resistance and weather fastness
- 【ANTI-CORROSION】The stainless steel components such as ball bearings, main shaft, and central drag mechanism are all precision sealed. The fish reel works perfect after 280 hours anti-corrosion test in both freshwater and saltwater. To maintain a longer life, please rinse the reel in fresh water after saltwater usage
- 【DURABLE DRAG SYSTEM & BETTER LINE MANAGEMENT】Advanced disc brake system with carbon washer bears 4kg+ brake force. The stable and smooth braking system not only enhances the experience of reel fishing but also allows better control of line casting and retreving through appropriate brake settings
- 【SERVICE WARRANTY】We offer 3-year warranty, please contact us with any post-sale issues, we'll response within 24 hours.
- 【INSTANT LINE CHANGE COMBO, READY-SET-GO】The combo includes one fly fishing reel, two spare spools, and a premium storage case. It allows users to pre-install different line setups and quickly switch configurations on site according to various water conditions and fishing needs.
- 【MATERIALS & CRAFTSMANSHIP】The fly reels are made of aircraft-grade bar stock aluminum. The reel frame and spool are CNC precision machined; polished and hard anodized surface treatment sets for maximum durability and increases abrasion resistance and weather fastness
- 【ANTI-CORROSION】The stainless steel components such as ball bearings, main shaft, and central drag mechanism are all precision sealed. The fish reel works perfect after 280 hours anti-corrosion test in both freshwater and saltwater. To maintain a longer life, please rinse the reel in fresh water after saltwater usage
- 【DURABLE DRAG SYSTEM & BETTER LINE MANAGEMENT】Advanced disc brake system with carbon washer bears 4kg+ brake force. The stable and smooth braking system not only enhances the experience of reel fishing but also allows better control of line casting and retreving through appropriate brake settings
- 【SERVICE WARRANTY】We offer 3-year warranty, please contact us with any post-sale issues, we'll response within 24 hours.
- Solid & Lightweight: Precision CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy for exceptional impact resistance. The larger CNC hollow design reduces weight while maintaining durability
- Silky Smooth Drag: Equipped with a multi-disc premium carbon and stainless steel drag system, featuring a one-way clutch bearing for instant drag engagement. Enjoy precise click-drag adjustment and a silent, seamless retrieve
- Corrosion-Resistant & Durable: Hard-anodized surface treatment enhances abrasion and weather resistance. Cold-forged and tempered for superior strength and rigidity
- Mid-Arbor Design: Minimizes line memory and enables ultra-fast line pickup for improved performance
- Retrieve Configuration & Support: Factory preset for left-hand retrieve. Easily convertible to right-hand retrieve upon request. If you need assistance, contact us for expert support
- VALUE - Get the most out of your set up, 3-Packs include 1 complete reel with 2 additional spools in a padded travel case. Mix and match line weight for different rods on one reel, or use a variety of lines like floating/intermediate/sinking etc. to be effective on the water as conditions change.
- LIQUID DESIGN - Fully Pressure Cast aluminum frame and spool for unique designs that aren't possible with traditional CNC machines. These reels are lightweight and durable and feature a full frame HD design for extra protection.
- SMOOTH STRONG CONICAL DRAG - Our proprietary sealed conical drag system offers a smooth, broad range of drag with plenty of power on the high end. The sealed drag helps keep water and debris out to ensure the drag is protected in any environment. Large easy grip drag knob.
- LARGE ARBOR - Ensure quick line pick up, and minimize line memory so your leader and lines don't get coiled. Plenty of room for backing capacity and neat line management.
- APPLICATION - HD/Full frame reels are ideal for Euro and Tight line Nymphing tactics, Spey and Switch setups. These frames are also very useful for Saltwater fish that make long runs into your backing. 3-Packs offer the most versatility.
- SPARE SPOOL: Extra spool for Redington Behemoth Series fly fishing reel.
- SPARE SPOOL: Extra spool for Redington Behemoth Series fly fishing reel.
- SMOOTH - 13+1 Sougayilang spinning fishing reel corrosion resistant smooth ball bearings and one instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing give it ultra-smooth performance. and comes with an extra free spare spool!
- STRONG - Sougayilang spinning reels are equipped with: precision brass gears, hardened metal main shaft, triple disc carbon drag washers, and interchangeable right or left CNC machined aluminum handle.
- HIGH POWERED - Sougayilang spinning reel’s Superior Drag System offers incredible stopping power. It has a hardened metal main shaft, perfect mesh drive gear and precision machined pinion gear for fish fighting power.
- LIGHT WEIGHT - Hollow frame design and computer balancing system combined with high performance and light weight for long time fishing.this fishing reel is an awesome gift for experienced and beginner.
- Position - Ocean boat fishing, ocean rock fishing, ocean beach fishing, lake, river, reservoir pond, stream etc.
- VALUE - Get the most out of your set up, 3-Packs include 1 complete reel with 2 additional spools in a padded travel case. Mix and match line weight for different rods on one reel, or use a variety of lines like floating/intermediate/sinking etc. to be effective on the water as conditions change.
- REMIX DESIGN - This unique reel features a fully CNC machined frame and a pressure cast aluminum spool, blending 2 great materials with an HD full frame to make a super durable reel.
- SMOOTH STRONG CONICAL DRAG - Our proprietary sealed conical drag system offers a smooth, broad range of drag with plenty of power on the high end. The sealed drag helps keep water and debris out to ensure the drag is protected in any environment. Large easy grip drag knob.
- LARGE ARBOR - Ensure quick line pick up, and minimize line memory so your leader and lines don't get coiled. Plenty of room for backing capacity and neat line management.
- APPLICATION - HD/Full frame reels are ideal for Euro and Tight line Nymphing tactics, Spey and Switch setups. These frames are also very useful for Saltwater fish that make long runs into your backing. 3-Packs offer the most versatility.
The Essential Guide to Buying Fly Fishing Reels with Spare Spools
Choosing the right fly fishing reel can make a huge difference in your time on the water. When you see a reel package that includes a spare spool, it’s like getting a bonus tool! This guide helps you understand what to look for so you can pick the best reel setup for your fishing adventures.
Key Features to Look For
A good fly fishing reel does more than just hold your line. It needs to be smooth and reliable. Here are the most important things to check:
1. Drag System Quality
- Smoothness: The drag controls how much force a fish can pull before the line comes off. A smooth drag prevents the line from snapping when a big fish runs. Look for sealed drag systems if you fish in saltwater or very wet conditions.
- Power: Ensure the drag has enough stopping power for the fish you plan to catch (small trout need less power than big salmon).
2. Spool Design
- Arbor Size: Reels come in three main arbor sizes: standard, mid, and large. Large arbor reels let you retrieve line faster and store more backing line. They are very popular today.
- Porting: Many modern spools have holes drilled in them (porting). This makes the spool lighter.
3. The Spare Spool Advantage
The main reason to buy a combo with a spare spool is versatility. You can quickly switch lines without having to re-spool everything later. This is great for changing fishing techniques quickly.
Important Materials Matter
The material of your reel affects its weight, durability, and how much it costs. Good materials last longer.
Reel Body and Spool Construction
- Machined Aluminum: Most high-quality reels use machined aluminum. This means the reel is cut precisely from a solid block of metal. This process creates a strong, durable, and lightweight reel.
- Die-Cast Aluminum: Cheaper reels often use die-cast aluminum, where metal is poured into a mold. These reels are heavier and usually not as strong as machined ones.
- Frame/Housing: Ensure the frame is corrosion-resistant. If you fish near the ocean, saltwater-safe finishes are essential.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the material; it’s about how the parts fit together and perform.
Improving Quality
- Sealed Bearings: Bearings allow the spool to spin freely. Sealed bearings keep water and grit out, which greatly improves reel longevity.
- Tight Tolerances: High-quality reels have very little “play” or wobble in the moving parts.
Reducing Quality
- Plastic Parts: Reels that use a lot of plastic, especially in the drag knob or handle, will wear out much faster than metal ones.
- Poor Finish: Cheap paint or anodizing can chip easily, exposing the metal underneath to rust or corrosion.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use your new reel setup.
Versatility with Spare Spools
The spare spool is your secret weapon for efficiency. For example, if you are trout fishing, you might load one spool with a floating line for dry flies and the spare spool with a sinking line for nymphs. Switching takes only a minute.
Weight and Balance
The reel must balance the rod correctly. A reel that is too heavy will cause fatigue quickly. Lighter reels are usually better for long days of casting.
Ease of Use
Can you easily open the spool to change lines? Is the drag adjustment knob easy to turn while you are fighting a fish? Simple designs often lead to better experiences on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why do I need a spare spool if I only use one type of line?
A: Even if you use one line type, the spare spool is a fantastic backup. If your main line breaks badly or gets damaged during a tough fight, you can quickly swap the spool and keep fishing instead of spending time re-tying or re-spooling the whole reel.
Q: Are reels that come with two spools always better quality?
A: Not always. Some budget sets include a second spool just to increase the perceived value. Always check the material (machined aluminum is best) and the drag system, regardless of how many spools are included.
Q: What size reel should I buy for general freshwater fishing?
A: For most trout, bass, and panfish, a size 5/6 or 7/8 reel is a versatile starting point. Check the manufacturer’s rating for line capacity.
Q: Does the spare spool need to match the main spool exactly?
A: Yes, the spare spool must be designed for that specific reel model. Fly reels are built precisely, so a spool from a different brand or model will not fit correctly.
Q: How do I care for my reel if I fish in saltwater?
A: After every saltwater trip, you must rinse the reel thoroughly with fresh tap water. Never submerge the reel. If the drag system is sealed, it offers better protection, but rinsing is still necessary.
Q: Is a large arbor reel always better than a standard arbor reel?
A: Large arbor reels retrieve line faster and reduce line memory (the kinks in the line). They are generally preferred for modern fly fishing, but standard arbors are sometimes lighter or better for very small streams.
Q: How much backing line should I put on the spare spool?
A: You should spool the spare spool with the same amount of backing line as your main spool. Backing line is the extra thin line underneath your main fly line; it prevents the fly line from slipping around the spool core.
Q: What does “sealed drag” mean?
A: A sealed drag means the delicate parts of the drag mechanism are protected by seals (like small rubber gaskets). This keeps water, sand, and dirt out, ensuring the drag stays smooth even when exposed to the elements.
Q: Should I worry about the reel handle material?
A: The handle should feel comfortable and grip well, even when wet. Hard plastic or rubberized grips are good choices. Metal handles can sometimes feel cold or slippery.
Q: If I buy a used reel combo, how do I check the drag quality?
A: Pull the line out slowly while applying slight resistance with your other hand. The line should come out smoothly, without any jerking, clicking, or sticking points. If it sticks, the drag needs servicing.