The Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO) NTR III Clear Silver Fly Reel in the 7-8 weight range is a solid mid-tier fly fishing reel designed for freshwater and light saltwater use. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and considerations:
Key Features:
1. Material & Build
– Clear Anodized Aluminum – Lightweight yet durable, with corrosion resistance.
– CNC Machined – Precision construction for smooth operation.
2. Drag System
– Sealed Disc Drag – Smooth, consistent pressure with minimal maintenance.
– Adjustable – Fine-tune drag settings for fighting larger fish.
3. Design & Aesthetics
– Sleek Silver Finish – Attractive, modern look.
– Large Arbor – Faster line retrieval and reduced line memory.
4. Weight & Balance
– Designed to balance well with 7-8 wt rods (ideal for bass, pike, steelhead, and smaller saltwater species).
5. Line Capacity
– Holds a standard WF7F or WF8F line plus backing (check exact backing capacity for your needs).
Pros:
✅ Smooth, reliable drag for the price
✅ Lightweight yet sturdy construction
✅ Good value for intermediate anglers
✅ Attractive, low-glare finish
Cons:
❌ Not fully sealed (avoid prolonged submersion in saltwater)
❌ May lack the extreme durability of higher-end reels (e.g., Lamson, Nautilus)
Best Uses:
– Freshwater: Trout, bass, pike, steelhead
– Light Saltwater: Redfish, bonefish (rinse after use)
Price & Value:
At $190, it’s a competitive option between budget reels (like the Redington Behemoth) and premium models ($300+). If you need a reliable reel for medium-duty fishing without breaking the bank, the NTR III is a solid choice.
Alternatives to Consider:
– Redington Behemoth ($150) – More drag but heavier.
– Lamson Liquid ($200) – Fully sealed, better for saltwater.
– Orvis Hydros SL ($250) – Smoother drag, more refined.
Would you like recommendations for matching rods or fly lines?