Cheeky PreLoad 2.0 375 Fly Reel

Great Value

Just got back from a trip on the Green at Little Hole. That was the first outing for this reel & line set-up. As a fly fisher with over 40 years of experience, I've had and have a lot of gear. When it comes to reels, I've always been more of a "Timex vs Rolex" guy. For reels, I need these things, and nothing more: Good fit and finish, a reliable, quality drag and durability. While I haven't had this reel very long; it certainly checks the first 2 boxes. This reel falls between my 2 Orvis Battenkills and 2 Orvis Clearwater reels in all respects. I purchased this one to mount on a Loomis GLX Max 6wt that a guide friend gave me. This rod is very stiff and has a very fast action, so I loaded it with 7wt line. This set-up is primarily for throwing bigger bugs on windy days on my home waters of the lower Roaring Fork and Colorado, and other bigger, open water in the region. The line is slick and throws well. I had a few large fish in high flows hooked up on the Green that I was able to test the drag on, and it performed very well. -No complaints. With 5 freshwater rigs currently in the quiver, I don't expect to be adding another rod and reel any time soon, but if need arises, a Cheeky will certainly be under consideration. 5 stars for value, 4 overall.

Alabama Saltwater trip

I was recently on the Alabama gulf coast for a Critical Care conference and did a bunch of fishing while I was not in classes and Ted talks. This reel far surpassed my expectations. It handled the saltwater and sand better than or as good as reels three or four times the cost of this reel. The ultimate success of this reel was when I hooked into a huge red drum and the drag helped me keep control and land the monster fish. I am taking a trip to California to do some surf fishing near Newport Beach. I will do a follow up review then.

Nice fit & finish, very smooth drag, perfect weight to balance the rod that I put it on. The line & leader isn't anything super fancy, but it's very functional. No complaints, I think Cheeky's pre-loaded reels are excellent for anyone putting together a budget-friendly fishing kit.