Charlton

Charlton Reels are no longer available. Please click on NEW REELS to see other fine reels that are available.

8450C

Charlton Outdoor Technologies entered the high-end reel market in 1994. The quality of machining and originality of design is why this reelmaker is having a major impact on the fly reel market. Although many features of Charlton reels are state of the art, perhaps the two most incredible are the multi-spooled "C" (for configurable) models and the UPS-truck-stopping multi-disc carbon fibre drag system. There are now three reels in the "C" system. The 8550C is a Signature Series model made to take four different spools, one for bonefish, tarpon, billfish, and a spey spool. Each is different in many ways other than just capacity. For instance, the Offshore spool has fins machined into the backplate to help move heat that is created when a hot fish is taking line. The Bonefish spool has the handle and counterbalance recessed a significant distance in from the outside circumference of the spool in order to get a multiplying effect. The 8550C received the BEST of SHOW at the 1996 International Fly Tackle Dealer Show. With this one frame and three or four spools one could fish for all saltwater species and many freshwater ones. It is joined by the 8450C which has a 3 1/2" frame and three spools designed for 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8 weight lines. Here the biggest advantage is the decreased weight that comes from using the large arbor spools in addition to the fact that they won't be filled with heavy backing. One reel will cover almost all trout, some steelhead fishing, light saltwater (including 6-7 weight bonefishing), and it has the same drag design as the big reels. The 8350C is a smaller version designed for very light trout fishing. It has two spools and weighs less than 4oz with either one. Still available is the 8500SS in two widths.

NEWS AS OF 1/07 : All Charlton reels have sold out. I have none in inventory any longer. In fact, you weren't even supposed to be able to gain access to this page, but somehow it seems to continue to be available to some of you. Be sure to keep checking my Misc./Used page for Charltons that others have asked me to sell for them.