Hardy gives the most famous fly reel ever made a facelift

The evolution of the Hardy Perfect, the most famous fly reel ever made, has taken another step with the introduction of two new models for 2021.

The Pure Fishing brand has re-imagined two classics, the Wide Spool Perfect and the Narrow Spool Perfect, complete with Hardy’s time-tested, adjustable check system and ‘Perfect’ sound.

The Narrow Spool Perfect is the classic reel for bamboo or fibreglass rods and will be available in a special run series. It is equipped with a retrieve-specific, polished stainless rotating line guard to provide ultimate control. The reel is designed with engineered bar stock aluminium and a naval brass one-piece spindle for strength and durability to last a lifetime. Its stainless-steel ball bearings provide smooth and frictionless running. Complete with an Ivorine handle, the Narrow Spool Perfect comes in both right and left-handed models and is available for a limited time with an MSRP of $850.

The Wide Spool Perfect model is the latest revision of the classic 110-year old Hardy Perfect fly reel. Now with increased capacity for modern WF and double-taper fly lines, the latest incarnation of the model honours the classic ‘Perfect’ sound, time-proven check system, and Ivorine handle. Available in six sizes, including the Taupo 3 7/8 inch salmon reel, each reel comes with a soft leather, sheepskin-lined pouch and has an MSRP ranging from $599 to $795, depending on size.

“It all started when Forster Hardy was first granted the patent for the Perfect reel design in 1889 (left),” said Jim Murphy, Director of Fly Fishing at Hardy. “Since then, our team of engineers has been tirelessly striving to improve on the Perfect reel, making the necessary adjustments to bring the fly fishing community some of the most sought after reels on the market.”