Abstract: A hydraulic drag fly reel for creating drag resistance on fishing line when playing a hooked fish to prevent backlash, wherein the hydraulic drag fly reel comprises a crank plate, a fishing line storage spool connected or mounted to the crank plate by way of a hub extending from the interior of the crank plate, a crank handle connected to the outside of the crank plate for rotating the spool, and a hydraulic drag system including an oil chamber, a turbine disposed in the oil chamber and a gearing system for rotating the turbine within the chamber when releasing line so as to automatically create drag on the fishing line in proportion to the resistance of the fluid in the chamber. The resistive drag automatically adjust in proportion to the force exerted by the hooked fish, especially with accelerated movements.

Abstract: A fishing reel for fly fishing that utilizes individually removable, interchangeable cartridge spools that contain different fishing lines of desired weights and densities that the user can install or remove. The individual cartridge spool is held in place by a locking member to prevent its inadvertent separation from the flange plate which houses the reel spool during the operation of changing cartridge spools. Unlocking the cartridge spool requires the user to manually pull the cartridge spool away from the flange plate. This causes the locking member to automatically spring tension release the cartridge reel. The locking member is manually positioned in place to lock the cartridge spool after it is installed.