Arborfly fishing glossary

The arbor is the core spindle of a fly reel. Large-arbor reels have become the modern standard because they pick up line faster (more line per revolution) and reduce line memory (coiling). Mid-arbor reels offer a compromise between retrieve speed and compact size.

Why It Matters

A large arbor reel lets you quickly take up slack when a fish runs toward you, reducing the chance of a break-off. It also keeps your fly line straighter off the spool, improving casting performance.