Review: Guideline AURA fly reel – design meets function

One series - many areas of application

The Aura is not a single model, but a complete series of finely graduated sizes that covers almost all modern fly fishing applications. From light stream fishing with dry flies or small streamers to modern Euro nymph techniques, coastal fishing, large streamers, saltwater and two-handed applications.

Guideline has given the AURA its own model especially for Euro nymphing fishing, which differs from the other variants with a larger diameter, a narrower spool and a specifically tuned weight. We will present this model to you in detail in a separate article.

Large arbour design - fast, efficient, modern

The large arbour design ensures extremely fast line pick-up. This is a real advantage, especially when the fish suddenly runs towards you or you need to pick up excess line quickly. This is supported by the slight V-shape of the spool, which ensures that the line automatically winds up evenly and cleanly - and runs off again during the fight without getting tangled.

• Fast line retraction for maximum control in hectic drills
• V-shape supports clean, even spooling
• More control during the fight

Narrow spools & optimised volumes

The deliberately narrow spool widths ensure even line lay and optimum control - even with thin running lines or monofilament Euro Nymph lines. At the same time, the spool volumes are precisely matched to the respective application, keeping the reel light and perfectly balancing modern fly rods.

• Clean line lay without "bunching" on one side
• Very suitable for thin running lines and mono
• Efficient capacity with low weight

Full-frame construction - safety with the thinnest lines

All Aura models have a full-frame design. Whether mono for Euro nymphing, running line on the coast or for two-handed fishing: the line stays reliably where it belongs and cannot slip between the spool and frame. For us, this has long been a must-have - and the Aura realises this perfectly.

• No jamming of line between spool and frame
• Ideal for Euro nymph mono, running lines and shooting lines
• More safety and peace of mind - especially in windy conditions and when changing lines quickly

Model-specific tuning - every size has its purpose

A major advantage of the Aura series is that each reel size has been individually developed: adapted weight, harmonised balance and drag power to suit the respective rod class. The larger models also have more mass and line guards to optimise the balance of long single-handed or two-handed rods and cope with the high loads.

• Optimised weight for perfect balance of modern rods
• Customised drag force depending on size and area of use
• Robust design for demanding situations (coastal, two-handed, saltwater)

Fully encapsulated carbon disc brake system - smooth & finely adjustable

At the heart of every Aura is the fully sealed carbon disc drag system. It starts absolutely smoothly, can be finely and continuously adjusted and offers the necessary power in the large models to tame even strong fish. The large, CNC-milled brake knob is extremely easy to grip and can be operated precisely even in wet conditions or with cold fingers.

• Sealed carbon disc drag for constant, reliable braking performance
• Smooth start-up - gentle on the tippet and material
• Large, non-slip brake knob for precise adjustment in cold and wet conditions

CNC manufacturing & material selection - light, strong, saltwater compatible

Manufactured from 6061 aircraft-grade aluminium and CNC-milled to the tightest tolerances, the Aura reels stand for stability at a low weight. The double anodising ensures durability and an extremely elegant finish - and also makes the reels ideal for fresh and salt water.

• CNC-milled for precision, perfect alignment and smooth running
• 6061 aluminium - high strength, low weight, corrosion-resistant
• Dual-anodised finish for a robust surface and high-quality look

Colours & variants

The Aura series is available in three colours - to suit your style, use and personal taste:

• Titanium - simple, timeless and universal
• Bronze - modern, elegant, warm
• Blue - particularly interesting for coastal and saltwater anglers

Our conclusion - honest, personal & straight from the water

The design language of the Aura really impressed us. It fits perfectly into Guideline's overall image: modern, technical, but timeless at the same time. A reel that not only impresses today, but also retains its appeal in the long term.

During our test, the conditions were really cold - and this is exactly where the non-slip brake knobpaidoff. Despite limited dexterity, the brake could be adjusted cleanly and precisely at all times, even in wet conditions - a detail that only becomes noticeable on the water.

The workmanship is also of a very high standard: the edges are precisely milled and cleanly polished, no sharp points, no compromises - despite the striking look, everything feels extremely smoothly manufactured.

Thanks to the large arbour design, the line can be picked up in no time at all. This is not only a huge advantage when fishing for sea trout or pike, but is particularly indispensable for tropical saltwater fishing. But these features also really come into their own when Euro nymphing.

The Euro Nymphing model in particular has aroused our interest. We will be taking another close look at it on the trout stream and putting it through its paces in the coming season - with video, of course. So stay tuned!