The Hardy Sovereign Fly Reel - a True Gem, and as Smooth as Butter

True to its Roots

The old-school design of the Sovereign fly reel is sized the way reels were sized back in the day. A 5/6 Sovereign will seem awfully small compared to today's modern 5/6 reels. It measures 2 7/8 inches in diameter. That's about the size of most modern 3-weight reels, I have the Sovereign in a 5/6 weight and I prefer to fish it as a 3 weight. I've used it as a 5/6 and was very happy with its performance, but I find I most enjoy it when paired with a 3-weight rod.

Music to my Ears

I match the Hardy Sovereign with the Hardy Ultralight LL 3-weight. I use this set-up to target wild brook trout in smaller creeks deep in the woods. This is quiet, small fishing. The whole experience is what I'm after, not just the fish. When stripping line or reeling in, the sound of the Sovereign clicker is soft to medium. Mix that with the birds and running water; it all empties my head of excess noise and chatter. Call me crazy, but I find joy in the sound of a reel's clicker. No different than the feeling I get when I hear basketball shoes squeaking on a court when I walk into a gym to play some ball. Fishing is more than just the fishing.

More Drag Than Needed, Until It’s Needed.

The Sovereign has a self-lubricating drag system that, when fished as a 3-weight, will probably never be needed, but as a 5/6 weight, it can come in handy. I plan to take this reel with me to Alaska and fish it as a 5/6 as it's intended. I'll be targeting the wild rainbow trout and char that follow the salmon up the rivers. If you've ever hooked into an Alaskan rainbow you know it will put the drag to the test. A 24" wild trout can take you to your backing and then some. This is pushing the limits of what this reel will usually face, but I enjoy fishing the Sovereign too much to leave it home. Good gear should be used and not coddled.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Performance

I am drawn to fly reels in the same way I am drawn to finely crafted watches. Over the years, I've amassed a collection of reels, and it's challenging to choose a favorite. However, the Hardy Sovereign ranks among my top five, this I know for sure. Whether used as a 3-weight or a 5/6 weight, it's a joy to fish. Its aesthetics, reliable drag system, premium materials, smooth retrieve, love that clicker, and its storied history all contribute to the exceptional fishing experience it provides. It's a reel that allows me to experience the thrill of catching fish while appreciating the artistry of quality gear. KB

“The gods do not deduct from man’s allotted span the hours spent in fishing.” - Herbert Hoover

^{Some of the gear reviewed in this article was provided to me at no cost for evaluation. The views and assessments presented are entirely my own.}