fly reels - automatic or manual

[crappyslayer]

Was interested in hearing what folks use for fly reels. Ive been fly fishing for 40 years and only use automatics. What do you use, and why... currently im using a 1960's perrine #51..
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[windriver]

In my experience automatic reels are much heavier. I have used them and just didn't like them. I guess the weight and probably drag system keeps me from using them regularly. On the other hand on small streams I have switched to tenkara....no reel.

Windriver
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[Nick1983]

Man... just when I start thinking I'm becoming a decent fly-fisherman, someone comes along and pops my bubble.

Tenkara?!?! Google... here I come... [crazy]

To contribute to the post, I have an old automatic reel that was my grandpa's. Not sure of the make/model, but like Windriver said, its heavy. I used it a few times trying to catch bluegill, but I just couldn't bring myself into investing money into line and backing for something I didn't like or prefer.

What advantages do you see in the automatic reels? I'm just asking because I have no experience with them.
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[crappyslayer]

Most of my fly fishing is on the middlefork of the boise. I dont climb down the bank and I dont wade. I fish from the road and I cover a lot of water fast. I only slow down and work a stretch if I raise fish. When fishing 15 to 20 feet down and banks with willows and snags, an automatic is a must to quickly retrieve 20 yds of line.
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[mojorizing]

I use modern click pawl and disc. Regular arbor and large arbor. I can't see using a reel that weighs more than a complete outfit- rod, reel and line. Never saw the reasoning behind an automatic reel.
But if it's your cup of tea, I hope you enjoy it for many more seasons.
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[riverdog]

Sounds like an unique application. If I ever take up road fishing I'll be sure to consider it[sly]. Sounds like it works well for your needs.
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[cpierce]

Cool "Road Fishing". LOL I've never heard that before. Must be a close steep drop to the creek. I can see your reel application there.

Personally since I use mostly lighter rods, I like the lighter new reels.
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[flygoddess]

I am with you, lighter rods, so lighter reels. I do prefer Large Arbor as with the Orvis LA, one turn of the reel is 1 foot of line. That is quick retrieve in my book[]

Tenkara for the creeks and streams all the way. And for the bait fishers, try Tanago!

I do have a auto reel. It is on the shelf below my Grandfathers Bamboo.
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[Untangler]

That is too funny - I have three old auto reels and keep them next to my Grandpa's bamboo rods. Maybe I should put one of them to use as a float tube anchor.
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[mojorizing]

[quote Untangler]That is too funny - I have three old auto reels and keep them next to my Grandpa's bamboo rods. Maybe I should put one of them to use as a float tube anchor.[/quote]
I'd be leary using it as a float tube anchor.
Kickboat- yes, float tube- no.

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