What To Look For
Loop has been producing reels for over 20 years, and their philosophy steers them toward larger arbours. Their new Opti reels combine a larger arbour with a V-shaped spool and the Power Matrix drag system (available on all Loop lines), which is weatherproof and saltwater resistant. In addition to the Opti, Loop offers: the Multi, a value-oriented reel available in 3-6, 6-9, and 9-12 line weights; the Classic, small and available in left- and right-handed versions and line weights of 4-6, 5-8, 7-9, 8-11 and 10-13; the Evotec G3, with an ergonomically designed, non-friction handle and available in weights of 3-5, 4-6, 5-7, 6-8, 7-9, 8-10, and 9-13; the CLW, a lightweight composite (hence the acronym) available in weights of 2-6, 5-8 and 8-12; and the CLWC clear composite, available in 2-6 and 5-8.
Common Pitfalls
One mistake that's easy to make is to buy the wrong reel for the type of line you want to use. Lines are matched by weight to the rod and the type of fish you want to catch. Generally, trout go on 1-7, bass 7-9, and heavier freshwater and saltwater fish on 8-15 lines; make sure you match the fish you want to catch to the right line, and match that to the proper reel.
Another consideration is the type of water. If you are planning to fish in saltwaterl, make sure you get an anodized reel that won't corrode.
Where To Buy
Loop has a dealer locator on its website (see Resources) to find local dealers in 11 states. Loop is also available online from e-commerce sites, including castawayflyfishinshop.com and bobmarriottsflyfishingstore.com.
Cost
The Loop reels vary in price from $130 for the basic CLW and CLWC series to up to $919 for the Classic series. Prices vary inside each series by reel weight.
Comparison Shopping
The CLW 2-6 is $130, the 5-8 $140 and the 8-12 $150. In the middle of the spectrum, the G3 3-5 is $395, the 4-6 $405, the 5-7 $420, the 6-8 $435, the 7-9 $445, the 8-10 $500 and the 9-13 $515. At the high end, the Classic 4-6 is $899, the 5-8 $719, the 7-9 $779, the 8-11 $849 and the 9-13 $919.
