Review: Airflo’s latest 7/9wt cassette reel

Time Well Spent April 16, 2024

Airflo’s longstanding Switch fly reel is one of the most popular cassette reels on the market. A firm favourite with stillwater competition and pleasure anglers, its quick-change system and affordable spare spools make it the perfect choice for anglers needing to carry multiple lines. The latest Switch Pro has been redesigned and sports a handsome gunmetal grey anodised finish. It weighs a whole ounce less than its Switch Black stablemate thanks to its ported, machined aluminium frame.

The reel’s large arbor means less line memory with stored lines, faster retrieval and the capacity for 150 yards of 20lb backing when loaded with a WF8 fly-line. A smooth multi-disc drag is adjusted by a large, deeply notched drag knob on the back, for consistent pressure. The reel’s front plate with aluminium handle carries the polycarbonate spool and is released from the reel cage by a small lever in the centre boss. Once apart, the spool can be removed from the reel’s central hub, where it is held in place by a rubber O-ring. It’s a simple but reliable system which means spools can be changed in seconds, allowing you to quickly react to any change in the fish’s feeding depth.

The Switch Pro comes in a reel case with five spare spools, which you’ll be glad to hear have not been changed and so are still compatible with the previous model and the Switch Black.

The Switch Pro reel with its multiple spare spools as standard offers excellent value for money.

Airflo 7/9wt Switch Pro Reel with five spare spools, £199.99; additional spare spools £9.99.
Contact: Airflo 
Tel: 01874 618 518
Web: airflofishing.com