Fly Fishing Reel (#5/6)

thingiverse

When I embarked on this project, my goal was to craft a reliable and robust fly fishing reel that could withstand the test of time. This is the end result. It's a classic design with a pawl providing ample drag to ensure good spool control. I experimented with numerous designs to minimize additional hardware, but ultimately concluded that you'll need to add screws and bearings to achieve a reliable outcome. While I have immense respect for those who strive for fully printed reels, it wasn't the route I chose. The reel weighs in at 115 grams with the components I've used, and the total cost is approximately 10 euros if you purchase all components individually. The reel's size matches that of a #5/6 rod and line. I use it with a WF 5, then add 40-50 meters of backing to it. When printed and assembled correctly, this reel will last for an extended period and can handle large fish with ease, thanks to its simple pawl drag (with a bit of palming, it goes a long way). Additional hardware: * M3x4 (DIN 7985, MRX) - 1 piece * M3x6 (DIN 7985, MRX) - 3 pieces * M3x10 (DIN 7985, MRX) - 6 pieces * Bearings 5x11x5 - 2 pieces * M5x30 - 1 piece * M5 lock nut - 1 piece Assembly: Spool - Step 1: Components - Part 1 (A or B), Part 2, Part 3, and 6 M3x10 screws. Assemble the spool by ensuring the deeper hole is towards Part 1. Spool - Step 2: Components - Part 6, Part 7, and 1 M3x20 screw. Place Part 7 in Part 6 and then assemble with the M3x20 to the spool. Spool - Step 3: Components - 2 Bearings 5x11x5. Assemble the bearings now, and the spool is complete! Reel - Step 1: Components - Part 8, Part 10, and M5x30 screw. Assemble the M5 and add a distance/spacer on. Reel - Step 2: Components - Part 11 and 3 M3x6 screws. Just assemble; pay attention not to tighten the screws too much or they will lose traction. Reel - Step 3: Components - Part 12 and 1 M3x4 screw. Tighten the screw just enough, ensuring the pawl can move freely but with a bit of friction not to have it dangling around. Reel - Step 4: Components - Assembled spool, assembled reel, Part 10, and Part 13. Put the spool onto the M5 and reel, add a spacer on the front, then tighten the M5 lock nut with the locking mechanism first (upside down) using Part 13 to tighten. Reel - Step 5: Components - Part 9 and some glue. Attach the cap with some glue to cover the M5 head; this is optional. Reel - Step 6: Component - Part 4. Snap part onto the front side of the reel to cover the bearings and M5 nut; again, this is optional. Now you have a fully assembled reel; just add fishing and enjoy!