[David1123]

Can someone tell me if a Hardy SA System 8 Fly Reel is an adequate reel for Steelhead, and maybe Coho's. I'm using an 8wt. Ambush line on it.

 

[808steelheader]

In my experience these reels are big enough for steelhead. I have used them with both the 7wt and 8wt Ambush lines, summer and winter.

 

[salmo_g]

I agree with 808. Yes, the System 8 is a good choice reel for steelhead and coho fishing with a single hand rod. You'd need a System 10 for a lighter two-handed rod IMO.

Sg

 

[carlz]

Can someone tell me if a Hardy SA System 8 Fly Reel is an adequate reel for Steelhead, and maybe Coho's. I'm using an 8wt. Ambush line on it.

Definitely good for single handers. An 8 or 9wt line.

The old System reels were Hardy reels. (as opposed to the system 1 and system 2 reels). However there were two versions of the Marquis (with the dual pawls, and the other was similar to the Viscount with the circular spring and a single pawl.

Both are nice, but the dual pawl is a much nicer design. I like the exposed rim on these reels. They are definitely workhorse reels.

 

[808steelheader]

Can someone tell me if a Hardy SA System 8 Fly Reel is an adequate reel for Steelhead, and maybe Coho's. I'm using an 8wt. Ambush line on it.

So what did you decide?? Gonna put that SA 8 to work for steel and coho?? That reel sure sounds nice with a hot steelhead melting line off of it!!

Todd

 

[David1123]

David1123

Does anyone think a SA System 8 fly reel with a 8wt. Wulff Ambush line would work well with a Meiser 11' 4/5 switch rod.

 

[fredaevans]

Agree on both counts.

I agree with 808. Yes, the System 8 is a good choice reel for steelhead and coho fishing with a single hand rod. You'd need a System 10 for a lighter two-handed rod IMO.

Sg

2hander lines suck up a lot of space so a 'big reel!!' is needed.

fae

 

[808steelheader]

Does anyone think a SA System 8 fly reel with a 8wt. Wulff Ambush line would work well with a Meiser 11' 4/5 switch rod.

Yes, I think so. In the first photo I posted above, the SA 8 is loaded with the 8wt Ambush with 20lb backing. That particular fish was very hot, ran almost all the way to the other side of the river. You can get a bit more capacity on that reel if you buy 8wt Ambush head and use thin running line like slickshooter. I have that reel on an old glass rod single hander but don't see why it wouldn't work on a light switch.

Todd

 

[David1123]

David1123

I also have a SA System 9 fly reel. Do you think maybe that would be a better choice. I also have a Hardy Marquis Salmon one, but I think its too heavy.

 

[808steelheader]

I also have a SA System 9 fly reel. Do you think maybe that would be a better choice. I also have a Hardy Marquis Salmon one, but I think its too heavy.

didn't know you also had the system 9. Yes it would be a better fit for what you are doing with the 8wt Ambush and switch. I also own one and it is better suited with the 8wt Ambush. Great reels.

Todd