Lamson Fly Reels

The history of Lamson reels is tied closely to innovation in lightweight, high-performance fly reel design. Originally a small reel company, Lamson was acquired by Waterworks in the mid-1990s, and the brand became known as Waterworks-Lamson. This merger brought together Lamson’s fly reel expertise with Waterworks’ background in high-end design and machining. One of Lamson’s biggest contributions to fly fishing was the development of the sealed conical drag system, a patented design that provided smooth, powerful drag in a compact, fully sealed housing. This breakthrough set their reels apart from traditional disc drags and made them especially appealing to both freshwater and saltwater anglers.

Lamson reels are designed and manufactured in Boise, Idaho, USA, where Waterworks-Lamson is based.

Lamson reels use a patented sealed conical drag system that differs from traditional disc or click-and-pawl drags. The design uses two conical surfaces pressed together, which creates smooth resistance with virtually no startup inertia. Because the drag is fully sealed, it is protected from water, salt, and grit, making it reliable and low-maintenance. This system is used across the Lamson lineup, with larger or premium models featuring proportionally larger drag components for added stopping power.

Lamson reels come with a lifetime warranty for the original owner, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Reel repairs carry a flat fee, which includes parts and return shipping.