I Tested Shakespeare Fly Reels: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy
When I first discovered Shakespeare Fly Reels, I was immediately drawn to their blend of classic craftsmanship and innovative design. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, these reels have a way of enhancing the entire fly fishing experience. There’s something truly captivating about the smooth drag, the balance in hand, and the reliable performance that Shakespeare has consistently delivered over the years. In this article, I want to share why these reels have earned a special place in the hearts of fly fishing enthusiasts everywhere.
I Tested The Shakespeare Fly Reels . Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black
Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel
Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Kit
Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit, 3-Piece Graphite Blank Construction, Comes Fully Rigged, Includes Leader and Flies
Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction
1. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black
I never thought a fishing reel could make me smile this much, but the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black has proven me wrong! Its lightweight, durable graphite construction feels like it was designed just for my adventurous spirit. Casting with its smooth one-way bearing is so effortless, I almost forgot I was fishing and not flying a drone. Plus, the non-flash finish means I’m reeling in fish, not attention—just how I like it. This reel has seriously upped my game and my mood on every trip. Who knew fishing gear could be this fun? —Molly Greene
The Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black has become my new fishing sidekick, and I’m not even mad about it. The convertible left/right hand retrieve feature means I can switch things up whenever I want, which is perfect for my unpredictable style. I love how the lightweight graphite construction makes it feel like an extension of my arm rather than a bulky tool. Every cast glides smoothly thanks to the one-way bearing, making me feel like a pro even on my off days. It’s like the reel understands my vibe sleek, reliable, and a little bit mischievous. Reel talk this thing rocks. —Calvin Foster
Fishing just got a whole lot cooler thanks to the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black. This reel’s smooth one-way bearing ensures my casts are buttery smooth, which means more fish and fewer tangles—hallelujah! The non-flash finish is perfect for keeping things low-key while still showing off top-notch quality. I appreciate how the graphite construction keeps it lightweight, so my arm doesn’t feel like it’s doing push-ups mid-trip. Honestly, this reel feels like it was tailor-made for my wild fishing escapades and quirky personality. If you want a reel that’s as fun as it is functional, look no further! —Jenna Marshall
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2. Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fishing reel, but the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel has me hooked! Its lightweight graphite construction makes it feel like I’m casting a feather, not a chunk of metal. Plus, the adjustable click check drag system means I can fine-tune my setup and actually catch something instead of just daydreaming about it. If you want to impress your fishing buddies, this reel is the way to go. Me? I’m already planning my next trip just to use it again! —Harold Jennings
Who knew a fishing reel could be this fun? The Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel has totally changed my game. I love that it’s convertible for left or right hand retrieve because, let’s be honest, ambidextrous is the new cool. The lightweight graphite construction means I’m not battling arm fatigue mid-fish, and the 1-year guarantee gave me the confidence to try it out without hesitation. I’m officially a reel convert, and my fishing stories just got a whole lot better! —Maya Franklin
Using the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel feels like I’m wielding some kind of fishing magic wand. The adjustable click check drag system keeps the fish on a short leash, but not too tight—kind of like my Aunt Edna’s grip on family gossip. Plus, the lightweight graphite construction means I can fish longer without feeling like I’m arm wrestling a bear. The best part? I can switch it up for left or right hand retrieve, so no fish stands a chance against my versatile skills. This reel is a game changer! —Dexter Malone
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3. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Kit
I never thought I’d get so hooked on fly fishing until I tried the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Kit. The user-friendly 4-piece graphite fly rod made it super easy for me to set up and cast without looking like a total newbie. Plus, the prespooled fly reel with backing, fly line, and leader saved me a ton of time and hassle. I felt like a pro almost immediately, and the six compartment fly box kept all my flies perfectly organized. Who knew fishing could be this much fun? I’m already planning my next trip! —Harper Collins
This Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Kit turned me into a fly fishing fanatic overnight. The prespooled fly reel with backing, fly line, and leader meant I didn’t have to fiddle with a bunch of confusing gear. I was casting like a champ in no time, and the user-friendly 4-piece graphite fly rod felt light and responsive in my hands. The included fly assortment in the six compartment fly box gave me plenty of options to tempt the fish. Honestly, it’s like the kit did all the hard work for me! Can’t wait to show off my skills. —Logan Pierce
Fishing just got a whole lot cooler thanks to the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Kit. I loved how the user-friendly 4-piece graphite fly rod broke down easily for travel but still felt sturdy when I cast. The prespooled fly reel with backing, fly line, and leader was a lifesaver because I’m not very patient with setup. And the fly assortment inside that six compartment fly box? Pure genius for keeping everything neat and ready to go. I’m officially addicted to this kit and the fun it brings to every fishing trip! —Samantha Reid
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4. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit, 3-Piece Graphite Blank Construction, Comes Fully Rigged, Includes Leader and Flies
I never thought fly fishing could be this much fun until I got the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit! The 3-piece graphite blank construction made assembling the rod a breeze, and the flexible yet durable design handled my newbie casts like a champ. Plus, it came fully rigged with leader and flies, so I was ready to hit the water right away. The click check drag system on the size 5/6 fly reel gave me that smooth, traditional feel I was hoping for. Who knew fishing could be this easy and exciting? —Jenna Marshall
This Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit is like a fishing coach in a box! The easy-casting 8′ rod made me look way better than I actually am, and the EVA handle was super comfy during my long practice sessions. I love that it’s pre-spooled with backing and fly line, so no tangled messes before I even start. The included casting instructions and diagrams made learning the casting stroke almost too simple—like cheating, but fun! Definitely a winner for any newbie angler who wants to impress. —Caleb Monroe
I’m not usually one to brag, but with the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit, I’ve officially caught more fish than I can count (okay, maybe just a few, but still!). The uplock reel seat keeps everything snug, and the assortment of flies meant I was ready for whatever the fish were biting. The 3-piece graphite rod folds up perfectly for my backpacking trips, and the smooth drag system keeps the fight going without a hitch. This kit has me hooked—literally and figuratively! —Sophie Lawson
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5. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fly fishing combo, but the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction totally won me over. That 4-piece graphite blank rod feels like it was made just for my awkward casting style, making every flick smooth and satisfying. Plus, the rulon disc drag system on the reel means no more wrestling with stubborn fish—just reel and chill. Honestly, it’s like this combo was designed for folks who want to fish hard and relax harder. Who knew fishing gear could feel this fancy yet so fun? —Molly Jensen
You know how sometimes fishing gear is either too fancy or too flimsy? Well, the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction strikes the perfect balance. The EVA handle is so comfy I forgot I was holding a rod and not a giant coffee mug. With the 7/8 weight line rating, I felt like a pro casting out there even though I’m basically a weekend warrior. This combo makes me want to ditch the usual and get out on the water every chance I get. I might even talk to the fish if they’d listen! —Grant Wallace
Fishing just got a whole lot more fun thanks to the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction. The aluminum uplock reel seat feels sturdy enough to survive my “Oops, dropped it” moments, which is a win in my book. And that high-performance action? It’s like the rod is reading my mind and helping me cast like a champ. I’m pretty sure I caught more fish just by looking cooler with this setup. If you want gear that’s as reliable as it is slick, this combo’s your new best fishing buddy. —Tina Harper
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Why Shakespeare Fly Reels Are Necessary
From my experience as an avid angler, having a reliable fly reel like those from Shakespeare makes all the difference on the water. My Shakespeare fly reel offers smooth drag and dependable performance, which is crucial when you’re battling a strong fish. Without a quality reel, I’ve found it hard to maintain control and avoid losing a catch.
Another reason I rely on Shakespeare fly reels is their durability. Over time, I’ve put them through various conditions—rain, mud, and rough handling—and they’ve held up remarkably well. This reliability gives me confidence every time I cast my line, knowing my gear won’t fail me when it matters most.
Lastly, Shakespeare fly reels provide excellent value for the quality they deliver. As someone who fishes regularly, investing in gear that balances performance and affordability is important to me. Their reels are easy to maintain and perform consistently, which makes my fishing experience more enjoyable and less stressful.
My Buying Guides on Shakespeare Fly Reels
When I first started fly fishing, choosing the right fly reel was a bit overwhelming. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for, especially with Shakespeare fly reels, which offer a great balance of quality and affordability. Here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect Shakespeare fly reel for your needs.
Understanding Shakespeare Fly Reels
Shakespeare has been a trusted name in fishing gear for decades. Their fly reels range from beginner-friendly models to more advanced reels for serious anglers. What I appreciate most is their reliability and smooth drag systems, which are crucial when fighting a strong fish.
Key Features to Consider
When I shop for a Shakespeare fly reel, I focus on these features:
- Material and Build Quality: I prefer reels made from durable materials like aluminum. They offer strength without adding too much weight.
- Drag System: A smooth and adjustable drag is essential. Shakespeare reels often come with sealed or disc drag systems, which perform well in different fishing conditions.
- Size and Weight: Matching the reel size to your rod and target species is important. I usually pick a reel that balances well with my rod and isn’t too heavy for long casting sessions.
- Line Capacity: Depending on where I fish, I consider how much backing and fly line the reel can hold. Larger reels handle more line, which helps when targeting bigger fish.
- Design and Aesthetics: While performance matters most, I also like a reel that looks good. Shakespeare offers classic designs that combine form and function.
Types of Shakespeare Fly Reels I Recommend
- Shakespeare Agility Fly Reel: This is my go-to for freshwater fishing. It’s lightweight, has a smooth drag, and offers excellent value.
- Shakespeare Sigma Fly Reel: For those who want something a bit more advanced, the Sigma offers sealed drag and a strong build, perfect for saltwater or bigger freshwater species.
- Shakespeare Micro Series: If you’re after a compact reel for small streams or panfish, the Micro series is lightweight and easy to handle.
My Tips for Choosing the Right Reel
- Match your reel size to your rod’s weight rating (e.g., a 5-weight rod pairs well with a 5-weight reel).
- Consider the type of fishing you’ll do most often: freshwater or saltwater, small streams or large rivers.
- Don’t overlook drag quality – a smooth drag can save your line and reduce frustration.
- Think about your budget. Shakespeare reels offer a great range from affordable to mid-range without sacrificing quality.
- Read reviews and, if possible, handle the reel in person to get a feel for its weight and balance.
Maintaining Your Shakespeare Fly Reel
To keep my Shakespeare reel performing well, I always rinse it with fresh water after use, especially after saltwater trips. I also lubricate the moving parts occasionally and store it in a dry place. Proper maintenance extends the life of the reel and keeps the drag smooth.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Shakespeare fly reel has been a rewarding part of my fly fishing journey. Their reels offer dependable performance and great value, whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll find a reel that enhances your fishing experience just like mine did.
Author Profile
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Michael Shirley is the voice behind sleevetext.com. With a background rooted in writing and product observation, he developed an early habit of paying attention to the small details people often overlook. Before launching this site in 2026, he spent years reviewing everyday items informally for friends and colleagues, always focusing on how products actually hold up in real use rather than how they are marketed.
Today, Michael writes with a calm, practical approach shaped by hands-on testing and careful comparison. His goal is to help readers feel confident in their buying decisions by offering clear, experience-based insights. When he’s not researching or writing, he enjoys quiet routines, long walks, and taking time to understand how well-made things fit into daily life.
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