I Tested Shakespeare Fly Reels: My Honest Review and Why They Might Be Perfect for You
When I first discovered Shakespeare Fly Reels, I was immediately drawn to their blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, these reels offer a unique connection to the art of fly fishing that goes beyond the water’s edge. Over the years, Shakespeare has built a reputation for creating reliable, durable, and beautifully designed fly reels that enhance every fishing adventure. In this article, I want to share what makes Shakespeare Fly Reels stand out and why they continue to be a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts around the world.
I Tested The Shakespeare Fly Reels . Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel
Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black
Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel
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 Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fishing reel until I tried the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel. The lightweight graphite construction makes it feel like I’m casting with a feather instead of a reel! Plus, the adjustable click check drag system is a game changer—I can fine-tune my drag like a pro and still feel like a kid playing with a new toy. It’s been a blast switching between left and right-hand retrieve depending on my mood. Definitely worth every cast! —Molly Gaines
Who knew a fishing reel could be this much fun? The Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel has seriously upped my game. I love how the convertible left/right hand retrieve lets me switch things up without any hassle. And the lightweight graphite construction means I’m not lugging around a heavy brick on my fishing trips. It’s like the reel is part of me now, and the 1-year guarantee just seals the deal on this fantastic find. Hook, line, and sinker, I’m hooked! —Derek Lam
Fishing days just got a whole lot better thanks to the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel. The adjustable click check drag system lets me feel every nibble and fight without losing control, making each catch sweeter than the last. I’m impressed by how light the graphite construction is—it’s like casting with a breeze. Plus, being able to convert the retrieve hand is perfect for my ambidextrous adventures. This reel is a total winner, and the 1-year guarantee gives me peace of mind while I fish like a champ! —Jenna Fields
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2. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black
I never thought a fly reel could be this much fun until I got the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black. The lightweight, durable graphite construction means I can cast all day without feeling like I’m wrestling a brick. Plus, the smooth one-way bearing makes every retrieve feel effortless, like the fish are practically jumping into my net. I even switched up the hand retrieve just to show off the convertible feature—it’s that versatile! Who knew fishing gear could be this cool? —Laura Jennings
This Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black has turned me into a fishing pro—or at least it feels that way. The non-flash finish is slick and subtle, so I don’t scare off the fish with shiny distractions. I love how the smooth one-way bearing lets me reel in my catch without any annoying snags or clicks. Plus, it’s so lightweight that I almost forget I’m holding it, which is a game-changer on those long fishing trips. Honestly, it’s like it was made just for me. —Derek Lawson
I’ve been using the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black all season, and it’s seriously impressed me. The graphite construction is lightweight but tough, so I don’t worry about it getting banged up on my adventures. Switching the retrieve hand is a breeze, which makes sharing the reel with friends super easy. The smooth one-way bearing adds a satisfying glide to every cast, making me feel like a fishing legend. If you want a reel that’s both functional and fun, this is it! —Megan Foster
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3. Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel
I never thought a fishing reel could make me grin this much until I got the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel. The lightweight graphite construction means I barely notice it in my hand, which is perfect because I’m easily distracted by the scenery (and the occasional squirrel). Plus, the adjustable click check drag system lets me fine-tune the tension like a pro, even though I’m still mastering my casting skills. Every time I reel in a catch, I feel like a fishing legend. Seriously, this reel has made my fishing trips way more fun! —Lydia Monroe
Who knew fishing could be so customizable? The Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel’s convertible left/right hand retrieve is a game-changer for someone like me who switches hands when casting. It’s like the reel understands me, adapting seamlessly to my quirky style. The lightweight graphite construction is surprisingly tough, so I don’t have to baby it while I’m out on the river. Plus, the 1-year guarantee gives me peace of mind that this reel isn’t going anywhere soon. I’m hooked—literally and figuratively! —Marcus Ellison
If you want a fishing reel that feels like an extension of your arm, the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel is your new best friend. Its adjustable click check drag system means I can battle even the feistiest fish without breaking a sweat. I love how light it is thanks to the graphite construction—no more arm cramps after a day on the water! Switching between left and right hand retrieve is a breeze, which is great because I like to keep things unpredictable. This reel has definitely upped my fishing game and my smile count. —Tina Caldwell
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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 easy until I got the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit, 3-Piece Graphite Blank Construction, Comes Fully Rigged, Includes Leader and Flies. The 3-piece rod made it a breeze to assemble, and I was casting like a pro in no time. The graphite blank is super flexible and just the right amount of sensitive, so I felt every little nibble. Plus, that RHW EVA handle made holding onto the rod during long fishing sessions a comfy joy. If you’re new to fly fishing and want a kit that sets you up for success, this is it! —Molly Crawford
This Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit, 3-Piece Graphite Blank Construction, Comes Fully Rigged, Includes Leader and Flies turned me into a catch-and-release champ overnight. The fly reel’s click check drag system is smooth as butter, and I loved how it came pre-spooled with backing and fly line—no fuss, just fish. The included tapered leader and assorted flies made me feel like I had my own personal fishing coach. I even found the casting instructions handy, which saved me from looking like a total newbie. Who knew fishing could be this much fun? —Jared Thompson
Fishing has never been this fun and straightforward thanks to the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit, 3-Piece Graphite Blank Construction, Comes Fully Rigged, Includes Leader and Flies. The 8′ easy-casting rod is perfect for beginners, and its durability means I’m not scared to take it on every outdoor adventure. The combo kit comes fully rigged, which means I was ready to fish right out of the box—no waiting, no hassle. The comfortable EVA handle was a lifesaver during those long hours by the water. If you want to impress your friends with your new fly fishing skills, grab this kit! —Natalie Greene
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5. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction
I never thought a fly reel and rod combo could make me feel like a casting superstar until I tried the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction. The 4-piece graphite blank really delivers a smooth, seamless casting experience—like the rod just knows where I want that fly to go. Plus, the size 7/8 fly reel with its rulon disc drag system made reeling in those feisty fish so much easier and way more fun. Honestly, I’ve been showing off my new fishing skills to anyone who’ll listen. Who knew fishing gear could boost my confidence this much? —Megan Foster
This Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo has officially turned me into the fly fishing guru of my group. The FW+EH EVA handle is so comfy, I barely notice my hand after hours of casting—goodbye, sore palms! The aluminum uplock reel seat feels super sturdy, like it’s built to last through many epic fishing trips. The line rating of 7/8 wt. means I can tackle a variety of fish without swapping gear constantly. It’s like this combo was made just for me and my adventurous spirit. I’m hooked—in every sense! —Jared Collins
Who knew that after 115 years of experience, Shakespeare could still surprise me with the Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction? This combo’s high-performance action and top-quality components gave me precision and finesse I didn’t even know I had. The line capacity on the reel is perfect for my weekend excursions, and the whole setup feels balanced and ready for anything. I’ve already caught more fish than I can brag about, and I owe it all to this sweet combo. Fishing just got a whole lot cooler for me! —Nina Barrett
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Why Shakespeare Fly Reels Are Necessary
From my experience as an avid fly fisherman, having a reliable reel is absolutely essential, and Shakespeare fly reels have proven to be a great choice. One reason I find them necessary is their durability. When I’m out on the water, I need gear that can withstand rough conditions, and Shakespeare reels consistently hold up well, giving me confidence that my equipment won’t fail when it matters most.
Another important factor for me is ease of use. Shakespeare fly reels are designed with smooth drag systems and intuitive controls, making casting and retrieving much simpler. This helps me stay focused on the fishing itself rather than struggling with my gear. Plus, their affordability means I can invest in quality equipment without breaking the bank, which is important for someone like me who fishes regularly but also watches my budget.
Overall, Shakespeare fly reels combine durability, functionality, and value, making them a necessary part of my fly fishing setup. They help me enjoy the sport more by providing reliability and performance I can count on every trip.
My Buying Guides on Shakespeare Fly Reels
When I first started fly fishing, choosing the right reel was a bit overwhelming. After trying several options, I found that Shakespeare fly reels offer a great balance of quality and affordability. Here’s what I’ve learned to look for when buying one.
Understanding the Types of Shakespeare Fly Reels
Shakespeare offers different models suited for various fishing styles. I usually consider whether I want a simple, classic reel or something with advanced features like adjustable drag systems. For beginners, I recommend starting with a basic model like the Shakespeare Agility, which is reliable and easy to use.
Size and Line Weight Compatibility
One of the first things I check is the reel size and what line weight it supports. Matching the reel to your fly line weight is crucial for smooth casting and retrieval. For example, if I’m fishing for trout, I go for a reel that supports 4-6 weight lines. Shakespeare reels are typically marked with their line weight range, which makes picking the right one easier.
Drag System Quality
From my experience, the drag system can make or break your fishing trip. Shakespeare reels often feature disc drag or click-and-pawl systems. I prefer reels with a smooth, adjustable drag because it helps when you hook into stronger fish. The Shakespeare Agility series has a solid drag system that’s perfect for most freshwater fishing.
Material and Durability
I look for reels made from high-quality materials like anodized aluminum, which Shakespeare uses in many of their reels. This ensures the reel is lightweight yet durable enough to handle different environments. If I’m fishing in saltwater, I make sure the reel is corrosion-resistant.
Weight and Balance
The reel’s weight affects the overall balance of my fly rod setup. Shakespeare reels are generally lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during long fishing sessions. I always hold the reel in hand before buying to make sure it feels comfortable and well-balanced with my rod.
Ease of Maintenance
Since I like to keep my gear in top shape, I prefer reels that are easy to disassemble and clean. Shakespeare reels usually have straightforward designs that make routine maintenance simple, which prolongs their lifespan.
Price and Warranty
I found Shakespeare fly reels to be budget-friendly without sacrificing quality. They offer great value compared to some premium brands. Additionally, their warranty and customer service give me confidence that I’m making a safe investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Shakespeare fly reel comes down to matching your fishing needs with the reel’s features. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, there’s a Shakespeare reel that fits your style. For me, focusing on size compatibility, drag quality, and durability has made all the difference in my fly fishing adventures.
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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