Shilton Fly Reels Overview

KISS – keep it simple & stupid! The developers of Shilton fly reels from South Africa continue to rely on the simplest technology and natural materials for their incredibly strong drag system. We introduce the new, high-performance aluminum reels one by one and reveal what makes them so special.

For over two decades now, Shilton products have been on the market! During this time, the well-designed reels have not only enriched the experiences of many anglers on the water and earned their trust on countless adventures, they have also been continuously improved over the years.

The origin of these reels: South Africa. A diverse country where fine trout fishing is just a stone’s throw away from action-packed saltwater angling. In between: bass, yellowfish, tigerfish, and more. And just as diverse as the country of origin is the range of uses for these reels. Whether trout or GT – one thing is especially important to the manufacturer when it comes to their fly reels: reliable performance, no matter what. The company's motto: “We Stop Fish” – and Shilton has set this goal for even the fastest and most powerful fish in the oceans. It’s no coincidence that some of the world’s most renowned saltwater lodges rely on the uncompromising performance of Shilton reels.

An Overview of the Models:

From delicate grayling fishing in mountain streams to battling the powerful saltwater giants of the seas — the range of applications for Shilton fly reels is as broad as their reputation.

• Shilton SR: With its large arbor design and extremely powerful cork drag system, the Shilton SR is the ultimate workhorse for fighting strong fish in both freshwater and especially saltwater. The Shilton SR features the largest cork disc of all Shilton reels, delivering even more reliable and higher braking power. Whether it's GT, arapaima, or tarpon – the Shilton SR is built for exactly these kinds of fish. Thanks to its ultra-strong drag and fast line retrieval, the SR ranks among the best saltwater fly reels on the market and is a loyal companion to the ends of the earth.
• Shilton SL: The SL fly reel put Shilton on the map over 20 years ago and became a well-known name, especially among saltwater anglers. The incredibly strong cork drag and the low-maintenance, no-frills design make this reel virtually indestructible. The SL combines maximum line capacity with fast retrieval speed – ideal for fast predators on the flats or in the jungle.
• Shilton SL Spey: Technically identical to the "regular" SL, the SL Spey features a more traditional visual design, making it a perfect fit in the world of two-handed fishing. The SL Spey is a true workhorse among two-handed reels – developed for heavy two-handed rods, large rivers, and uncompromising control during fights with powerful species such as Atlantic salmon, sea trout, or steelhead.
• Shilton CL: The CL was Shilton’s first reel series, introduced in 2002 as part of their "Classic Range." The classic look and mid-arbor design pair beautifully with many single-handed rods and, thanks to the slightly smaller spool core, provide high line capacity. The strong yet delicate carbon drag starts smoothly and has the power to stop a fish when needed. Especially when fishing for trout, grayling, and other freshwater species, the CL is the perfect partner – its ingenious drag system absorbs runs and headshakes before the tippet gives out.
• Shilton CK: The popular Shilton CK fly reel fits perfectly between the CL and CR models. The medium spool diameter strikes an ideal balance between high line capacity and fast retrieval speed, making it particularly appealing to fly fishers who want to be on the safe side with backing. Whether you're fishing for pike, sea trout, or doing light tropical fishing – the Shilton CK and its powerful carbon drag are the right tools at your side.
• Shilton CR: The CR is Shilton’s most popular reel from their freshwater range and features a modern large arbor design. The large spool diameter allows fast retrieval and reduces line memory – something that mono Euro-nymphing enthusiasts especially appreciate. Its extremely lightweight construction and strong carbon drag also make it well-suited for sea trout fishing. Light, strong, and with a large spool – the Shilton CR covers a wide range of applications, from the most delicate nymph tactics to demanding streamer fishing on our lakes, rivers, and seas.

KISS – Keep It Simple & Stupid!

True to the motto KISS – Keep It Simple & Stupid. The Shilton drag systems of the SL and SR reels offer an open, controllable system that is easy to maintain and extremely reliable. The drag resistance is generated by the contact surface of a disc pressing against the inside of the spool, with the pressure regulated via a handy drag knob. A very simple system that has proven itself over many years. The large cork discs of the saltwater models (SR and SL) also ensure an extremely smooth drag start, thanks to the natural properties of cork, so even when fishing with thin tippets, you don’t need to worry when a fish takes off at full speed.

The drag systems of the freshwater series CL, CK, and CR, on the other hand, consist of a fully sealed drag housing, where resistance is generated by friction between stainless steel and carbon discs. This combination also delivers enormous braking power, silky-smooth payout, and highly precise adjustment. Minimum and maximum drag can be adjusted in just a few steps and tailored exactly to your needs.

More Features of the Shilton Fly Reels

Shilton fly reels are not only high-performance fly reels, but also super lightweight! The reels are machined from solid material, which means: from a single block. In this case, high-quality 6082 T6 aluminum. CNC machining ensures the precision we as anglers demand in a reel, so that the reel always gives us a secure and stable feeling.

And it doesn’t matter whether for the left or right hand – Shilton fly reels can be easily converted from LHW to RHW. These lightweight reels feature a very simple and foolproof design. Whether it’s the exposed cork drag system of the saltwater models or the carbon discs of the freshwater series – all models can be easily disassembled, allowing them to be cleaned even on the spot.

This simple design is nothing short of brilliant – because one thing is clear: no other reel can be serviced easier or faster!

External protection of the fly reels is provided by a Type-II anodization. This offers maximum corrosion protection on one hand, and on the other, delivers the rich, vibrant colors in which the models are available. Shilton fly reels are a worry-free package: simple, reliable drag system, quick to service, and protected against corrosion. And if anything should still happen, Shilton also offers a limited lifetime warranty.

In short: Powerful drag – Robust construction – Shilton Reels. These high-end reels come from South Africa and are especially well known among passionate saltwater anglers. We also had the chance to test Shilton fly reels during intense GT fishing in the Seychelles, and we can confirm 101% that they more than live up to their stellar global reputation!

In addition to the saltwater reels SL and SR, which we thoroughly enjoyed using, Shilton also offers the freshwater series CL, CK, and CR. With this selection, you can cover everything from tropical fishing to delicate stream fishing for trout and grayling – and be confident that you'll safely land your dream catch.