Machined aluminum light weight large arbor reels with ultra smooth drags are no question helpful when landing larger trout but we don’t think spending a bunch of money on a machined reel is ultimately necessary. Reel features don’t matter as much as the quality of the rod because they primarily just hold the fly line. Most of today’s reels will have some sort of drag to help you apply pressure on the fish and to not have the spool overrun. If your reel doesn’t have a drag your guide can teach you how to “palm” the spool to apply pressure on the fish or just use the guide’s gear!

Breathable waders are your best bet when you’re wanting to step in the river and wade fish but not needed if you plan to just fish from the boat. Rain pants are a smart, cost-effective option if waders aren’t available. Summer temperatures can be pretty warm with many days in the 90’S so you’ll often be fine wet wading with river sandals.