The 30 best fly fishing brands in 2026

Airflo, Umpqua and Orvis lead our ranking of 30 fly fishing brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.

Fly Fishing brands, ranked

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  1. 1

    Airflo

    AIRFLO has been making vacuum cleaners for over 20 years and has a strong brand presence in Australia. They provide vacuum cleaners, wet and dry steamers, air purifiers, heating, and cooling appliances, as well as a variety of accessories and consumables, giving you peace of mind that your house is clean and pleasant at all times. The AIRFLO collection comprises bagged and bagless versions for every area in your home. They provide more great vacuum cleaners at competitive prices throughout Australia.

    Popularity 10.0/10

  2. 2

    Umpqua

    Umpqua is a company that started with humble roots and has grown into something so much more significant. They are associated with water, and everything from tools to flies can be found in their inventory. The main focus lies on the flies made with the utmost care to ensure product quality. The company was established in 1972, and they have contributed to the market a lot in the following years. They continue to grow and develop with each passing day.

    Popularity 8.1/10

  3. 3

    Orvis

    Orvis was founded in 1856, and since then, the company has been known for offering superior fly-fishing equipment. They also provide men's and women's sportswear for those who love adventures and appreciate the environment. Fine gifts, homeware accessories like decor, rugs, kitchenware, and products for dogs are also available. At Orvis, it is all about empowering and inspiring one another to discover new things while being comfortable and stylish.

    Popularity 7.8/10

  4. 4

    Eagle Claw

    Eagle Claw is a fishhook manufacturer and the sole made in USA brand in this category. With more than ninety years of legacy, the company provides cost-effective and high-quality fishhooks. Helping the customers to catch their favorite fish while fishing, the fishhooks are inspired by the sharp claws of an eagle. The company also offers many fishing products like sturdy and unbreakable rods and reels to make catching fish foolproof. Eagle Claw is known for its attention to detail due to manufacturing products with utmost precision.

    Popularity 7.2/10

  5. 5

    Daiwa

    The fishing tackle company Daiwa sells a variety of superior Japanese fishing gear. Fishing should remain simple, according to Daiwa's product development. The issue is in the simplicity, not in the details of the creation. Consequently, it has produced goods for many years that meet customer demands, from leisure anglers to commercial fishers globally. Because its designers and craftspeople have years of expertise under their belts, they can proudly claim that their items are top-notch Japanese fishing products.

    Popularity 7.0/10

  6. 6

    Wychwood

    Fishing is a skill that requires the right tools and techniques. Wychwood offers high-quality products and tools, taking the carp fishing experience to the next level. Right from the start that is setting a camp to taking the caught fish home, the company provides all sorts of products to make the excursion a comfortable and fun memory. Products like Slug bobbin system and -series rods are the bestsellers. Other products like clothing and footwear are delivered in soft material for a comfy adventure. Working in the industry for over twenty-five years, Wychwood promises to provide value to your passion.

    Popularity 6.4/10

  7. 7

    Shakespeare

    Shakespeare fishing equipment is intended for usage. They have a comprehensive collection of top fishing equipment and accessories, including rods, reels, hooks, baits, terminal tackle, hard baits, and everything. Their items are ideal for both expert and novice anglers. They have several lines to suit your demands and budget. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned angler, they've got you covered. By showcasing their customers fishing with Shakespeare gear, they hope to demonstrate that they are more than simply a brand and a logo.

    Popularity 5.5/10

  8. 8

    VMC

    VMC is a family-owned brand established in England in 1910, starting its manufacturing of iron products. The heritage of VMC was two hundred years ago, in 1796, before it introduced VMC hooks officially. All these years later, it is now a leading global hooks brand that has its branches in France. Its hooks are known for being highly innovative and of good quality material. It now supplies 70% of its production to 96 countries across the globe. It also has a daily production capacity of 4 million hooks.

    Popularity 3.8/10

  9. 9

    Scierra

    Every product of Scierra is based on significant experience and great knowledge of fly fishing. From waders with remarkable four-way stretch abrasion-resistant material that can withstand any type of beating you throw at them to rods with painstakingly constructed actions...

    Popularity 3.3/10

  10. 10

    Drennan

    Peter Drennan founded the company Drennan in 1967. The company is mainly dealing with the fishing industry. They initially started with the making of floats, and now they have expanded their business over the years. They sell baits, catapults, lines,...

    Popularity 3.1/10

  11. 11

    Abu Garcia

    Abu Garcia was established in 1921. Initially, the company manufactured pocket watches, telephone timers, and taxi meters. During World War II, the need for these items declined. The company started to manufacture fishing reels in the place of the other...

    Popularity 2.8/10

  12. 12

    Korda

    Korda is a company that has been around for some time. They have mastered the art of making fish baits and tackles for the fishing enthusiasts. The company is well known to be creating the world's best carp fishing tackle....

    Popularity 2.8/10

  13. 13

    NGT

    NGT is all about fishing. The company has been selling fishing accessories for a long time. They are experts at creating the perfect hook and lines for all kinds of fishermen. They have also added additional items like outdoor cookware...

    Popularity 2.8/10

  14. 14

    Cabela's

    Cabela is the brainchild of Johnny Morris. He founded the company in 1972. He loved the outdoors and wanted to create a space where all the outdoor lovers could get the products they needed for their great adventure. It does...

    Popularity 2.7/10

  15. 15

    VARIVAS

    Varivas is a Japanese manufacturer of fishing lines and accessories. Since its inception in 1980, they have prioritized fulfilling the requirements of anglers worldwide; its products were the first to be certified by the IGFA in Japan. Varivas is used...

    Popularity 2.6/10

  16. 16

    Temple Fork Outfitters

    Temple Fork Outfitters Offers a collection of fishing reels, equipment, and related parts ideal for recreational fishing. Expertly engineered and crafted using premium materials to provide an affordable product that will last a long time. The lightweight and adjustable grip...

    Popularity 2.4/10

  17. 17

    Halo

    Halo took its first steps in 2000 with the coming of the millennia. They have been on an epic journey ever since the formation. The company started because they were frustrated with the limits they had to put on riding...

    Popularity 2.2/10

  18. 18

    Waterworks-Lamson

    Fishing is possibly one of the most relaxed things a regular person can do, but then again, there are fishermen who make their living from it. In order to meet the requirements of both of those people, Waterworks-Lamson brings an...

    Popularity 2.1/10

  19. 19

    Penn

    Penn was founded in German and constructed in 1932 to make Fishing Tackle producers. They distribute it to Spinning Reel and Electric Reel manufacturers worldwide. They are Low Profile Baitcast, and they believe in product development and innovation. Penn incorporates...

    Popularity 1.9/10

  20. 20

    Korkers

    Korkers, the brand protects every step you take in the wild with its indigenous inventions in its 60 years of functioning. The interchangeable sole system they introduced is one of the outcomes in an attempt to solve common shoe problems....

    Popularity 1.9/10

  21. 21

    Ross

    Ross is a music firm whose creator, Alex Rossen, is both a musician and an engineer. He toured numerous Los Angeles studios via his film and audio production. Ross creates several visually appealing audio equipment, and many well-known artists and...

    Popularity 1.9/10

  22. 22

    Allcocks

    Everybody loves the freshness that nature around us provides; it's every adventurist's dream to head out into the wild and live primal and openly. Allcocks is an online brand that specializes in outdoor accessories and equipment for hunting and survival....

    Popularity 1.8/10

  23. 23

    Patagonia

    Patagonia is dedicated to making the most refined product possible, decreasing its environmental impact, and supporting grassroots environmental organizations. Since 1973, they've been generating huge items that are both inexpensive and long-lasting. Its mission is to provide the most excellent...

    Popularity 1.8/10

  24. 24

    Zebco

    Your search for the perfect fishing pole ends at Zebco! Zebco offers high-quality reels and rods to help you wish. Providing multiple fishing accessories that would reel in the fish quicker, the company is known for its conventional reel, which...

    Popularity 1.8/10

  25. 25

    Okuma

    Okuma is a machine-tool manufacturing brand based in Japan. Its history began with selling noodle-making devices and became one of the greatest manufacturers of machine tools used today in every factory. The brand has expanded tremendously as part of its...

    Popularity 1.5/10

  26. 26

    Richard Wheatley

    A connoisseur of traditional-style fishing boxes cannot miss what Richard Wheatley brings to you. With premium-quality fly fishing boxes with significant mechanisms suited to your style of patterns, the Wheatley fly box is perfect in what it does. High in...

    Popularity 1.5/10

  27. 27

    Montague

    Formed in 1987 by a graduate student, Montague Corporation is a bicycle manufacturing company with high hopes and grand visions. They design and manufacture bicycles that are based on Folding Integrated Technology Or commonly known as F.I.T. They believe that...

    Popularity 1.4/10

  28. 28

    Sougayilang

    Your fishing experience just got better with Sougayilang! Are you tired of your hooks getting loose and missing out on big fishes? Then it's time to ditch them! With Sougayilang, find the finest fishing hooks in all convenient shapes to...

    Popularity 1.3/10

  29. 29

    Strike Pro

    Strike Pro manufactures and exports lures and fishing-related things to meet the changing market. They have sold their products in over 60 countries since 1973. It had its headquarters in Taiwan. Many anglers all throughout the world choose these goods....

    Popularity 1.3/10

  30. 30

    Jackson

    Jacksons Fencing is a British fencing manufacturer with headquarters in Stowting Common, Kent, near Ashford. Jacksons Fencing has an online store with over 1,300 items that enable clients to determine the quantity of fencing, decking, gates, and accessories they would...

    Popularity 1.3/10

Fly Fishing Buying Guide

Fly fishing is a sport that has been around for thousands of years, and it's still popular today. In fly fishing, you use a specially designed fishing rod, reel, and line to cast a fly, which is a type of lure that mimics a natural insect or other prey. Fly fishing is known for its peacefulness, as it involves being outdoors in nature, as well as the skill it takes to cast the line properly and catch fish. If you're interested in getting started with fly fishing, this buying guide will help you understand the equipment you'll need and what to consider when choosing it.

Fly Rods

The fly rod is the centerpiece of your fly fishing gear. It should be a comfortable length and weight for you to cast, and it should be made of quality materials. Fly rods are made in different lengths and weights, and the right choice for you will depend on the type of fishing you'll be doing, as well as your own physical abilities.

The most common types of fly rods are:

  • Single-handed rods: These are the most versatile and can be used for a range of fishing situations. They range in length from 6 to 10 feet.
  • Switch rods: These are shorter than spey rods but longer than single-handed rods, and they're designed to be used in tight spaces. They're also used for fishing in situations where a longer cast is needed.
  • Spey rods: These are the longest type of fly rod, and they're used for fishing in large rivers or when you need an extra-long cast.

When choosing a fly rod, consider the following:

Length

The length of a fly rod affects its casting distance, accuracy, and the type of water it's best suited for. If you'll be fishing in small streams or ponds, a shorter rod would be perfect, but if you're fishing in larger rivers, you'll want a longer rod that can handle both the wind and the weight of a larger fish.

Weight

When looking at fly rod weights, keep in mind that lighter rods are best for smaller fish while heavier ones are better for larger fish. In general, a 4-weight rod can handle fish up to one or two pounds, while a 6-weight rod is better for fish that weigh three to four pounds. If you're going after bigger fish, you'll need a heavier rod.

Action

The action of a fly rod is how much it bends when casting. A slow-action rod is more flexible and bends more, while a fast-action rod is stiffer and does not bend as much. If you're new to fly fishing, a medium-action rod may be the best choice for you, as it offers a balance between flexibility and stiffness.

Fly Reels

The fly reel is the part of your setup that holds the fly line and provides resistance when you're reeling in a fish. Reels are made in different sizes and materials, and you should choose one that's appropriate for the type of fishing you'll be doing.

When choosing a fly reel, consider the following:

Size

Fly reels come in different sizes, and you'll want to match the size of your reel with the weight of your rod. For example, a 4-weight fly reel is best for a 4-weight fly rod. Similarly, a larger reel can handle bigger fish, but it's also heavier and harder to cast all day.

Drag System

The drag system is what controls the amount of resistance when reeling in a fish. There are two types of drag systems you can choose from:

  • Click-and-pawl: This is the simplest type of drag system, and it's best suited for smaller fish. It works by using a spring and a clicking mechanism to provide resistance.
  • Disc drag: This is a more advanced drag system that's used for larger fish. It uses a stack of brake pads to provide resistance, and it's more adjustable than click-and-pawl.

Fly Lines

The fly line is what connects your fly rod to your fly reel. It's a thick, colored line that's specifically designed for fly fishing. Fly lines are made in different weights and types, and you should choose one that matches the weight of your fly rod.

When choosing a fly line, consider the following:

Weight

When choosing a fly line, match it to the weight of your fly rod. For example, a 4-weight fly line is best for a 4-weight fly rod.

Type

Fly lines come in different types, and you should choose one that matches the type of fishing you'll be doing. The three most common types of fly lines are:

  • Floating lines: These lines are best suited for dry fly fishing, as they're designed to float on the water's surface.
  • Sink-tip lines: These lines are designed to sink slowly, and they're best suited for fishing in shallow waters.
  • Sinking lines: These lines are best suited for fishing in deep waters, as they're designed to sink quickly.

Fly Leaders and Tippets

The leader and tippet are what connect your fly line to your fly. The leader is a tapered piece of monofilament or fluorocarbon line that's designed to transfer energy from the fly line to the fly. The tippet is a piece of monofilament or fluorocarbon line that attaches to the end of the leader and is attached to the fly.

When choosing a leader and tippet, consider the following:

Length

The length of your leader and tippet will depend on the type of fishing you'll be doing. For example, if you're fishing for small trout in a small stream, a leader that's 7-9 feet long would be appropriate. If you're fishing for larger trout in a river, a longer leader of 10-12 feet would be better.

Diameter

The diameter of your leader and tippet will depend on the size of your fly. For example, if you're using a size 16 dry fly, a 5X tippet would be appropriate.

Fly Selection

The fly is what you're trying to catch fish with, so it's important to select the right one. There are thousands of different fly patterns to choose from, each designed to mimic a specific insect or other prey. When selecting a fly, consider the following:

Water Type

The type of water you'll be fishing in will affect the type of flies you should use. For example, if you're fishing in a slow-moving stream, you'll want to use flies that mimic the insects in that stream.

Time of Year

The time of year you're fishing will also affect the type of flies you should use. In the spring, for example, you'll want to use flies that mimic insects that hatch during that time of year.

Color

The color of your fly will depend on the type of water you're fishing in and the species of fish you're targeting. In general, lighter colored flies work best in clear water, while darker colored flies work best in muddy water.

Fly Fishing Accessories

There are a few additional accessories you might want to consider when fly fishing. These include:

Waders and Boots

If you're fly fishing in a river, you'll likely need a pair of waders and boots. Waders are waterproof pants that allow you to stand in the river while boots provide support and traction on the river bottom. Waders and boots come in different sizes and materials, and you should choose a pair that's appropriate for the water temperature and conditions.

Nets

A net is used to help you land fish without injuring them. Nets come in different sizes and materials, and you should choose one that's appropriate for the size of the fish you're targeting.

Floatant

Floatant is a liquid that's used to keep your dry flies floating on the water's surface. It's especially useful in slow-moving streams or calm water.

Conclusion

Fly fishing can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity, but it requires proper gear and some knowledge of the equipment. By understanding the various pieces of fly fishing gear and what to consider when choosing them, you'll be able to make informed decisions and have a more successful time on the water. Remember, the right gear can make all the difference in a successful fishing trip.