Reely Nifty: Hardy Ultradisk UDLA Fly Reel

If you're looking for a new lightweight fly reel and want one with a drag, the new Hardy Ultradisk UDLA Fly Reel might fit the bill. Named the Best of Category award winner at the 2020 International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST) show in the new fly fishing reel category, the model line includes 13 different sizes appropriate for 3- to 12-weight rods. With alloy skeletal frames (available in gunmetal titanium and black/orange color patterns) that reduce weight by about 20% compared their previous fly reels of similar sizes, the 3000 size weighs a mere 3.8-ounces and even the big and beefy 10000 size keeps weight down to just 7 ounces.

Hardy, which has been manufacturing fly fishing reels and tackle in Alnwick, England, since 1891, says the drag utilizes a multi-pad Rulon material that allows for fine adjustments, with additional pads added to the larger sized models to increase the available pressure. The maximum drag pressure they can put out ranges from 4 pounds for the 3000, to 6 pounds for midsized reels like the 8000, to 8 pounds for the 10000.

Gear ratio is 1.0:1 for all of the reels in the lineup, and these models are designed with large arbors to maximize line capacity. They can also be converted for either right- or left-handed use. An unusual feature is the enclosed line guard system, which is designed into the frame to keep line inside the cage whether the running line you're using is thicker mono or thinner braid.

Ranges from $325.95 to $399.95 depending on size | hardyfishing.com