Top Fly Fishing Brands: Elevate Your Angling Adventure

Fly fishing, a distinctly artistic form of angling, requires equipment that's as reliable as it is effective. With the multitude of brands in the market, selecting the right gear can elevate your fishing experience significantly. Whether you're casting in tranquil streams or robust rivers, the right brand can make all the difference in performance and enjoyment. Below, we've compiled a list of some of the best brands revered by fly fishing enthusiasts worldwide.

Illustration of fly fishing

Best brands of fly fishing in 2025

Orvis

Orvis, founded in 1856 by Charles F. Orvis, is a renowned leader in the fly fishing industry, offering superior equipment and apparel that cater to the needs of anglers worldwide. With over 165 years of experience, Orvis is trusted for its high-quality fly rods, reels, and gear, and it also provides an extensive range of men's and women's sportswear and other outdoor accessories. The company has been privately owned by the Perkins family since 1965 and operates internationally with major operations in the U.S., the UK, and other regions. Orvis is part of a competitive market projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2024 to 2030, aiming to reach a market size of USD 4.34 billion by 2030. North America, where Orvis holds a strong presence, dominated the market with a 46.4% share in 2023.

Sage

Sage, founded in 1980 by legendary rod designer Don Green, is renowned as one of the best producers of fly fishing gear, having revolutionized the industry with its high-performance fly rods and reels. The company, initially known as Winslow Rod Company, has grown from six employees and 1,500 square feet of manufacturing space to 175 employees and an expansive 30,000 square feet. Sage introduced the first series of fly rods for saltwater anglers in 1986, the RPLX, and by the early 1990s, it had secured its position as the number one fly rod company in the world, with distribution in over 30 countries. The brand is celebrated for its innovative materials and designs, such as the Graphite IV and Durascrim used in the SP rods introduced in 1994. Sage's commitment to excellence has made it a favorite among professional anglers and enthusiasts alike. Discover more about Sage's exceptional fly fishing gear.

R.L. Winston

R.L. Winston is a renowned manufacturer of high-quality fly fishing rods, celebrated for their exceptional performance and craftsmanship. With a 90-year tradition, the company continues to innovate, as seen in their latest PURE 2 series, which utilizes double-bonded NanoParticle graphite technology for enhanced lightness, durability, and presentation. Winston rods are designed to excel in various fishing conditions, from technical spring creeks to large tailwaters, and are known for their smooth, delicate, and lively action. The company, based in Twin Bridges, Montana, employs about 40 people and is committed to maintaining its legacy of producing some of the world's finest fly rods. The fly fishing market, in which Winston is a key player, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from 2023 to 2032.

Hardy

Hardy, based in Alnwick, England, is a renowned brand in the fly fishing industry, celebrated for its excellence in crafting high-quality rods and reels over the past 150 years. The company combines tradition with advanced technology, making it a beacon of innovation and exceptional performance. Hardy's products are highly regarded by esteemed and accomplished fishermen, and their association with tournament wins has solidified their reputation. The brand continues to advance with determination, reflecting its rich heritage and commitment to progress. Hardy is among the top companies in the fly fishing reel market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.3% by 2032. Learn more about their legacy on the Hardy About Us page.

Scott Fly Rods

Scott Fly Rods is renowned as one of the best producers for fly fishing, known for their innovative technologies and high-quality craftsmanship. Their new Session line, launched in 2024, features rods that are 35% lighter than their first-generation ARC rods, thanks to the advanced Carbon Link epoxy resin system and ARC construction. These rods offer a "fast with feel" action, combining fast recovery with a sensitive feel, and are priced at $675, making them more accessible to a wider range of anglers. The Centric fly rod, another flagship model, utilizes the ARC2 system, providing even more torsional stability and a 35% weight reduction. Scott's commitment to significant improvements is evident in their philosophy of only introducing new rods when substantial advancements are made. For further details on Scott's new Session fly rods, you can visit the Scott Fly Rods article.

Simms

Simms Fishing Products is a leading brand in the fly fishing industry, renowned for its innovative and high-quality gear. Founded in 1980 in Bozeman, Montana, Simms introduced the world's first GORE-TEX breathable waders, setting a standard for durability and performance. The brand has experienced significant growth, with a compound annual growth rate of approximately 15% from 2019 to 2021 and net sales of around $110 million in 2022. Simms serves a global market, operating in over 63 countries and catering to a diverse range of anglers. Its products, which include waders, outerwear, sportswear, and various fishing accessories, make it a central player in the outdoor industry. For more information about their innovative fly fishing gear, visit their official website.

Patagonia

Patagonia is a leading brand in the fly fishing apparel and accessories market, known for its high-quality, eco-friendly products that cater to the needs of fly fishermen and women. In 2023, Patagonia was one of the key players in a market valued at USD 3.25 billion, with North America, where Patagonia has a strong presence, dominating the market with a 46.4% share. The brand's commitment to sustainability and innovative apparel technologies has contributed to the market's growth, expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2024 to 2030. Patagonia's products are popular among millennials and Generation Z, who are driving the increase in online sales channels, projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period. The brand's strong fly fishing culture and high disposable income among its customer base further support its market position.

Redington

Redington, a renowned brand in the fly fishing industry, has been a staple for over 30 years, known for its durable and accessible products. Despite discontinuing its wader line to focus on core offerings, Redington remains committed to producing high-quality rods and reels, which have historically accounted for significant revenue in the market, with rods and reels making up 8.3% and 6.4% of national sales, respectively. The brand's decision reflects its strategy to enhance its iconic rod and reel collections, ensuring long-term support and innovation in the sport. Redington's products are chosen for their exceptional quality, innovative features, and unbeatable value, catering to anglers of all skill levels. With a strong presence in the market, Redington continues to evolve and expand its product offerings.

Abel Reels

Abel Reels is a renowned brand in the fly fishing industry, celebrated for its high-quality and ruggedly designed reels. Founded in 1988 by engineer Steve Abel, the company has established itself as a leader, particularly with its Sealed Drag Series (SDS and SDF) that won prestigious awards, including the best new saltwater reel in 2016 and the best new freshwater reel in 2018. Abel Reels are known for their proprietary, hand-anodized finishes and precision engineering, making them a favorite among serious anglers. The company, now part of Mayfly Outdoors, continues to innovate and meet consumer demand with its manufacturing based in Montrose, Colorado. With a strong reputation for quality and performance, Abel Reels are often compared to luxury brands in the industry. Learn more about their esteemed products like the Abel Vaya Fly Reel.

Temple Fork Outfitters

Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO) is renowned for producing high-quality, affordable fly fishing gear, making it an excellent choice for both new and experienced anglers. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, TFO has established itself as a leader in providing durable and performance-driven fly rods, such as the NXT Black Label series, which is highly regarded for its excellent performance-to-price ratio and is covered by a full lifetime warranty. The NXT Black Label rods are particularly popular in fly fishing schools and educational programs across the United States. TFO's commitment to quality is evident in the robust construction of their rods, including features like secure ferrules and protective finishes to prevent salt intrusion. This dedication has helped TFO maintain a strong presence in the growing casting fishing rod market, which is expected to reach $898.9 million by 2032 with a CAGR of 4.4% from 2024 to 2032. For more information about their fly fishing gear, visit the TFO fly fishing page.