ADH-Test: IWANA Retro Salmon Fly Reel- Classic S-Handle Reel with 1:2 Multiplier
Iwana Retro 1:2 Multiplier Salmon Fly Reel – Classic Design Meets Modern Drag and Retrieval Technology
You love the look of classic fly reels but don’t want to compromise on modern performance? Then the Iwana Retro 1:2 Multiplier Salmon is well worth a closer look – a reel deeply rooted in traditional design, yet equipped with a technical feature that can make all the difference when fishing for salmon, sea trout, or steelhead: the 2:1 multiplier. We took a closer look at this special piece from Iwana – and found ourselves more than just nostalgically impressed! Join us on a summer salmon river and discover what makes Iwana’s retro reel so unique!
The Renaissance of Classic Reels
Classic fly reels have been experiencing a true comeback in recent years. Brands like Bogdan and Saracione have inspired collectors and purists for decades – especially with their iconic S-handle design and solid construction. However, many of these reels ended up in display cases rather than on the water.
Iwana takes a different approach: “Bring Classic Reels Back To The Water” is not just a slogan, but a passionate promise. The young brand from British Columbia, founded by Liu Shaojie and Wang Liang, is committed to exactly that – timeless elegance paired with uncompromising fishability.
The Retro Series is a tribute to the golden age of fly reels – and a bold statement against short-lived trends.
Technical Background on the 2:1 Multiplier
What does “1:2 Multiplier” actually mean? It’s simple: on a classic reel, line is retrieved at a 1:1 ratio – one turn of the handle equals one turn of the spool. The Iwana Retro 1:2, however, doubles that ratio: One handle turn = two spool rotations.
This offers a major advantage during the drill: you can retrieve line much faster – especially useful when the fish is swimming toward you or quickly changes direction. It's a feature typically found on modern large-arbor reels – but here, it's been perfectly integrated into a vintage-style design. High retrieval speed despite a small spool core diameter!
Technical Features
- Material: CNC-machined 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum, anodized – extremely durable and corrosion-resistant.
- Drag System: Classic, precise, adjustable drum drag system with a wonderfully nostalgic sound.
- Design: Durable Full-frame design with iconic S-handle, hand-polished ebonite handle.
- Finish: Closed spool side with silver accents and high-quality engraving. Individually serialized reel foot.
- Retrieve Direction: Available in both LHW and RHW.
- Case: Comes with a handcrafted suede leather case.
- Warranty: Lifetime manufacturer warranty.
Available Sizes & Recommendations
The Iwana Retro 1:2 Multiplier Salmon is available in various sizes to perfectly match a wide range of double-handed and switch rods. This makes the reel suitable for:
- Atlantic salmon fishing on large rivers with powerful #10–11 rods measuring 15–16 ft in length
- Steelhead fishing in Canada or the U.S.
- Sea trout fishing on smaller to mid-sized rivers in Scandinavia, Iceland, or Argentina
- Versatile fishing with switch rods
Whether you're casting a traditional greenheart rod or a modern carbon fiber model – this reel stands out visually while delivering uncompromising, modern performance.
Our Conclusion
The Iwana Retro 1:2 Multiplier Salmon is much more than just a tribute to days gone by. It's a premium fly reel, built with great attention to detail – and it delivers the performance you need for modern salmon fishing. What impressed us most, besides the fantastic sound of the drag under pressure, is the perfect balance between aesthetic design and technical innovation.
If you're looking for a high-quality, stylish classic fly reel packed with cutting-edge technology on the inside, this is it. A true delight for both eyes and ears!
Iwana doesn’t just bring classic fly reels back to the water – they make them ready for the future.
