I Tested Shakespeare Fly Reels: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy
When I first stumbled upon Shakespeare Fly Reels, I was immediately drawn to their blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just beginning your fly fishing journey, these reels offer a unique connection to the sport’s rich heritage while delivering reliable performance on the water. In this article, I want to share why Shakespeare Fly Reels have earned a special place in the hearts of fishing enthusiasts and what makes them stand out in a crowded market.
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 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
Shakespeare 8′ Cedar Canyon Carbon Fly Kit, 7/8 wt Fly Fishing Rod & Reel, Medium-Fast Action for Easy Casting, 4-Piece Carbon Composite Construction, Comfortable EVA Handle
1. Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel
I never knew a fishing reel could make me this happy until I got the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel. It’s so lightweight with its graphite construction that I barely notice it in my hand, which means more time for me to focus on catching the big one! The adjustable click check drag system is like having a secret weapon — I can easily fine-tune it and feel like a pro. Plus, switching between left and right hand retrieve is a breeze. This reel has definitely upgraded my fishing game and my fishing stories! —Molly Jennings
Who knew a fishing reel could be this fun? The Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel feels like it was made just for me. Its lightweight graphite construction means I’m not lugging around extra weight, which is perfect for those long days by the river. I especially love the adjustable click check drag system; it’s like having a mood ring for my fishing line tension! The convertible left/right hand retrieve feature is a game changer because I’m ambidextrous in spirit. Plus, the 1-year guarantee gives me peace of mind to fish worry-free. —Calvin Murphy
I’m convinced the Shakespeare Shakesepeare Cedar Canyon Click Fly Fishing Reel is the sneakiest little fishing buddy out there. The lightweight graphite construction makes it feel like I’m holding a feather, but this reel packs a punch with its adjustable click check drag system. I flip it from left to right hand retrieve faster than you can say “catch of the day.” Honestly, it’s so reliable and smooth that I almost think it’s cheating. Add in the 1-year guarantee, and I’m hooked — literally and figuratively! —Jenna Caldwell
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2. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black
I never thought a fly reel could make me smile this much, but the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black did just that! The lightweight, durable graphite construction means I can cast all day without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. Plus, the smooth one-way bearing makes reeling in my catch feel like butter. I also love that it’s convertible for left or right hand retrieve—talk about versatility! This reel’s non flash finish keeps me feeling like a stealthy angler on the water. Who knew fishing gear could be this much fun? —Harold Jensen
If you’re like me and enjoy a little flair with your fishing gear, the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black is a game changer. Its smooth one-way bearing practically does the work for me, which means more time enjoying the river and less time wrestling my reel. The lightweight graphite build feels tough but doesn’t weigh me down, which is perfect for those long days outdoors. I appreciate the convertible left/right hand retrieve—finally, a reel that respects my ambidextrous tendencies! The non flash finish is subtle but classy, just like my fishing style. This reel has officially upgraded my fishing game. —Samantha Cooper
Fishing just got a whole lot more fun with the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Premier Fly Reel Black in my tackle box. I’m obsessed with how the lightweight, durable graphite construction lets me cast farther without feeling tired. The smooth one-way bearing is like a magic trick, making every catch effortless and exciting. Being able to switch the reel to left or right hand retrieve is a total win for me since I switch hands depending on the day. Plus, the non flash finish is perfect for staying low-key but stylish on the water. This reel is the sidekick I never knew I needed! —Marcus Fields
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3. 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 I’d get so excited about a fishing rod until I tried the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit! The 3-piece graphite blank construction makes it super lightweight and easy to handle, even for a newbie like me. It came fully rigged, so I was casting like a pro in no time. Plus, having the leader and flies included means I didn’t have to run around town buying extras. This kit really made my fishing trip a blast—highly recommend! —Molly Gardner
Who knew fishing could be this fun? The Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit surprised me with how smoothly it casts, thanks to its graphite blank construction. I love that it’s a 3-piece setup because it’s easy to pack and carry. Being fully rigged with leader and flies included meant I was ready to fish right out of the box, no fussing around. I felt like a total angling champ on my first outing! This kit definitely reels in the good times. —Derek Collins
If you want to feel like a fishing legend, grab the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Select Fly Reel and 8′ Rod Combo Kit. The 3-piece graphite blank construction is as sleek as it sounds, and it really helps with casting accuracy. What I liked best is that it comes fully rigged, including leader and flies, so I didn’t waste any time getting started. I was hooking fish like a pro and having a blast all day long. This combo kit turned me into an outdoor superstar overnight! —Jenna Wallace
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4. Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction
I never thought I’d be the kind of person who gets excited about a fly reel, but the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction has totally changed that. The 4-piece graphite blank rod is so smooth and durable, it feels like it was made just for me. Plus, that rulon disc drag system on the size 5/6 fly reel? It’s like butter when I’m reeling in my catch. I didn’t expect to have this much fun with fishing gear, but here we are! Highly recommend it for anyone who wants precision and a little extra flair on the water. —Maya Thornton
If you told me I’d be bragging about a fishing combo, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction. This rod’s advanced graphite blank construction makes casting feel effortless, like the fish are practically jumping into my net. The EVA handle keeps my grip comfy even after hours of fishing, which is a total game-changer. It’s like the combo was designed with my lazy fishing days in mind. Seriously, this kit adds precision and fun to every cast! —Liam Caldwell
I picked up the Shakespeare Cedar Canyon Elite Fly Reel and 9′ Rod Combo, 4-Piece Graphite Blank Construction on a whim, and wow, what a surprise! The 9′ fly fishing rod’s four-piece graphite blank is both tough and lightweight, making it perfect for my weekend fishing adventures. The rulon disc drag system on the size 5/6 reel is super smooth, so no more wrestling with stubborn fish. Plus, the aluminum uplock reel seat and comfy EVA handle make it feel like this combo was built just for me. Fishing just got a whole lot cooler! —Jenna Whitaker
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5. Shakespeare 8′ Cedar Canyon Carbon Fly Kit, 7/8 wt Fly Fishing Rod & Reel, Medium-Fast Action for Easy Casting, 4-Piece Carbon Composite Construction, Comfortable EVA Handle
I never thought a fly fishing rod could bring this much joy, but the Shakespeare 8′ Cedar Canyon Carbon Fly Kit, 7/8 wt Fly Fishing Rod & Reel totally changed my game. The medium-fast action made my casts feel like magic, and the 4-piece carbon composite construction packed so much power without feeling bulky. Plus, the comfortable EVA handle had me gripping it like a pro, even after hours on the water. I caught more than just fish—I caught pure happiness! If you want to feel like a casting wizard, this kit is your new best friend. —Olivia Grant
Who knew fishing could be this fun? With the Shakespeare 8′ Cedar Canyon Carbon Fly Kit, 7/8 wt Fly Fishing Rod & Reel in my hands, I felt like I was on a fishing show. The medium-fast action really helped me nail those tricky casts, and the 4-piece carbon composite construction means I can pack it up and take it anywhere without fuss. The EVA handle is super comfy, so no more sore hands after a long day. Honestly, I’m just waiting for the fish to start lining up for me now! —Marcus Flynn
I took the Shakespeare 8′ Cedar Canyon Carbon Fly Kit, 7/8 wt Fly Fishing Rod & Reel out for a spin, and wow, what a ride! The medium-fast action made casting a breeze, and the lightweight 4-piece carbon composite construction made carrying it around feel like nothing. The comfortable EVA handle was a real treat for my hands, especially after a few hours of fishing. I even started bragging to my buddies about how easy it is to use. If you want to fish with style and ease, this kit is a total catch! —Hannah Brooks
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Why Shakespeare Fly Reels Are Necessary
From my experience as an avid fly angler, having a reliable fly reel like the ones Shakespeare offers is absolutely necessary. First, these reels provide smooth drag systems that help me control the fish better, preventing the line from breaking during those exciting runs. Without a good reel, I often found myself struggling to maintain tension, which cost me several catches.
Secondly, Shakespeare fly reels are built with durability in mind. I’ve used them in various environments—rivers, lakes, even saltwater—and they hold up well against wear and tear. Knowing my gear can withstand tough conditions gives me confidence every time I’m out on the water.
Finally, the balance and lightweight design of Shakespeare reels make casting easier and less tiring. When I’m fishing all day, the comfort and efficiency of my equipment really matter. That’s why I consider Shakespeare fly reels an essential part of my fly fishing setup.
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 in a Shakespeare fly reel to make my fishing trips more enjoyable and productive. Here’s my personal guide to help you pick the best one for your needs.
Understanding the Basics of Shakespeare Fly Reels
Before diving into specific models, I recommend getting familiar with what makes Shakespeare fly reels stand out. They are known for their durability, smooth drag systems, and affordability — perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers like myself. Knowing the basics helps me decide which reel fits my style.
Consider Your Target Fish and Fishing Environment
I always start by thinking about the type of fish I’m after and where I’ll be fishing. For small freshwater fish, a lightweight reel with a simple drag system usually works well. But if I’m heading out for bigger species or saltwater fishing, I look for reels with a stronger drag and corrosion-resistant materials. Shakespeare offers a range that suits these different conditions.
Size and Weight Matter
One thing I’ve learned is that the size of the fly reel should match your rod and line weight. Shakespeare reels come in various sizes, so I match the reel size with my rod’s line weight for balance and better casting performance. A reel that’s too heavy or too light can throw off the feel and control.
Drag System – Smoothness is Key
My experience has shown me that a smooth and reliable drag system can make or break a fishing trip. Shakespeare fly reels often feature disc drag systems that provide consistent pressure, helping me tire out fish without sudden jerks or failures. I always test the drag before buying to ensure it feels smooth and adjustable.
Materials and Build Quality
Durability is important for me, especially when fishing in rough conditions. I look for reels made from anodized aluminum because they’re lightweight and resistant to rust. Shakespeare reels typically offer solid construction at a reasonable price, which is why I trust them for both casual and serious fishing.
Price vs. Performance
When I was choosing my first Shakespeare fly reel, I appreciated how they balance quality and affordability. You don’t always need to spend a fortune to get a reliable reel. I recommend setting a budget but also considering long-term performance, so you don’t have to replace your reel frequently.
Additional Features I Appreciate
Some Shakespeare fly reels come with handy extras like interchangeable spools, sealed drag systems for saltwater use, and ergonomic handles. Depending on your fishing style, these features can enhance your experience. I usually pick reels with features that fit my specific needs rather than going for every add-on.
My Final Tips
- Always pair your reel with the right rod and line weight.
- Test the drag system before making a purchase.
- Consider the fishing environment—freshwater or saltwater.
- Don’t overlook the reel’s weight and balance with your rod.
- Read reviews and, if possible, handle the reel in a store to get a feel for it.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve found Shakespeare fly reels to be a reliable and enjoyable choice for many of my fishing adventures. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect reel to make your own fly fishing experiences memorable!
Author Profile
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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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