Hardy Reintroduces "Taupo" Perfect Fly Reel, Adds Cloth Reel Bag to Lineup

“Taupo” Perfect Fly Reel

Hardy first introduced the original “Taupo” Perfect fly reel in 1958 to fill the need for a larger capacity trout reel that could handle the legendary monster rainbows and brown trout of New Zealand. Despite a relatively short production life of only four years, the “Taupo” was eagerly sought after as a steelhead, light salmon, and large trout reel.

Continued demand for this classic reel inspired Hardy to reintroduce the “Taupo” for 2011. While all the dimensions and aesthetics are true to the original, Hardy has made a couple of improvements. The new “Taupo” is machined from solid bar stock aluminum and hard anodized for strength and durability. This  construction also does away with the need for a line guard, which was an option on the 1958 to 1962 reels. The check mechanism has been changed from the MK II to the more modern Lightweight style, which enables the angler to easily change between left to right hand retrieve. While maintaining the looks, feel, and spirit of it predecessor, the new “Taupo” is a stronger and more functional successor to a Hardy classic. MSRP is $695 at a Hardy dealer near you.

Reel Specs:
Diameter: 3 7/8-inches
Width of Spool: 1-inch
Overall Width: 1 1/2-inches
Depth of Spool, cross bar to spindle: 1 1/2-inches
Weight: 7 1/2-ounces

Hardy Cloth Reel Bag

Hardy Reel Bag

Harking back to the old “Selvyt” cloth reel bag, Hardy is now offering a modern version of this classic way to carry and store your valued reels. This sturdy twill bag with brushed flannel liner protects your reel from scratches and dings in style. The Reel Bag has an MSRP of $14.95.