[dropcap]E[/dropcap]inarsson Fly Fishing began manufacturing high end fly fishing reels in 2007. The current Plus series is a fully redesigned and revamped version of their original flagship reel upon which the company was founded.
The nuts and bolts…
Founder, Steingrimur Einarsson originally designed this reel for personal use in 2004 and has since redsigned it with style and precision, “From the very start we have worked continuously on improving the performance, quality and functionality of our design.” The Plus series is now available in 5 sizes from 3 ($532) to 9 ($732). In their efforts, Einarsson strived to design and build a brake system that would be smoother than any other ever made. Their website describes that the “drag package is a combination of materials that ensure a silky smooth drag that retains constant force at all settings.” The drag system is fully sealed and requires no maintenance. The carbon fibre disks are made in USA. The drawn cup clutch bearings are made in Germany. The chrome steel ball bearings are made in Japan. The aluminum parts of Einarsson reels are machined out of 6061 T6 to ensure strength and stability. Main frame and spools are forged, similar production method as piston rods in a car machine. Main shaft material is made using saltwater proof stainless steel.
Clear anodized 9Plus with black spool cap.
The lowdown on performance…
I personally have been fishing the 9Plus on my 10 weight setup all summer and have been quite smitten from the get go. The performance has been flawless. My first impression was that the 9Plus is exceptionally light but unlike many light reels, it seems strong, rigid and rugged. It’s full frame construction and design is sought after with spey anglers with whom the company first grew popular and allows for a more rigid and durable construction. Pulling on many large bluefish and some respectable stripers has revealed a smooth and consistent drag that hasn’t hesitated or gotten sticky on startup yet. The arbor is large and picks up line quickly. The handle is appropriately sized and comfortable to wind. The drag setting knob is easy to access and adjust for different fishing scenarios.
A looker…
Icelandic style and ingenuity has produced a really beautiful piece of engineering that balances today’s lighter fly rods quite well. The finishing on my clear anodized model was flawless. The plus series is also available in other tempting finishes to adorn your favorite stick. Choose black, bronze, clear or red. New in 2017, personalize your Plus reel with a choice of 4 colors for the brake knob, nut, and spool cap. Choose from blue, orange, red or black.
Form and function combined…
Now at a store near(er) to you…
It has become increasingly easier of late to find a retailer of these killer reels. In 2015, Einarsson Fly Fishing announced that their high-end reels would become available to fly fishing dealers in the United States through Aqua Flies, manufacturer of high quality steelhead flies and also a distributor for various fly fishing products. Currently Einarsson Reels are available in the United States, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Switzerland, Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands and the UK.
All Einarsson reels carry a limited lifetime warranty against defects in construction and workmanship for the original owner. Most repairs will be completed in the US. If there is a delay in repairing a reel, the owner will be offered another reel until their own is repaired
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