Ideal Nymph Reel
The Diamondback Ideal Nymph reel is a complex five-axis machined reel with a 40-gram adjustable weight system designed to optimize the performance that tactical nymph anglers require from a fly reel. Ideal Nymph reel designs reflect years of experience fishing nymph techniques and dealing with the problems and challenges that fishing long European style leaders can present. Every aspect of how an angler interacts with a nymphing reel has been carefully considered during the design of Ideal Nymph reels, with top competitive anglers providing their insight and suggestions.
- A five-axis CNC machined, closed frame provides an ultra-smooth rounded surface to protect ultra-thin fly lines and micro leaders when line is pulled off the reel at any speed from any angle!
- Large diameter spool spins easily with one quick turn -- allowing several feet of line to be picked up very quickly -- particularly with the larger 3/4 model designed to put fish on the reel with one quick spin of the spool in most nymphing circumstances.
- An extra narrow gap and diameter tolerance between the frame and spool which minimizes the potential for line getting caught between those surfaces at any time.
- Exposed rim to allow line pick-up by “batting” the outside rim (similar to a center pin reel function) or manipulate manual pressure while fighting a fish with a lighter drag setting.
- A drag far more capable than a nymph reel could possibly need. Two full turns of effective range providing smooth pressure and minimal startup inertia for trout size resistance with a high end suitable for saltwater gamefish.
- A distinct incoming and outgoing audible clicking noise, even at the lightest drag settings.
- An extra large and wide handle shape makes it easy to find by feel without looking for it. Three small silicone rings around the wide shape handle make it easy to grip and spin, even if the reel or fingers are wet.
- A unique reel foot shape that improves the balance point of the rod similar to a down locking reel seat, while maintaining an industry standard foot shape that will fit all standard reel seats. All reels come with a hex wrench to flip the reel foot if you flip the retrieve direction.
- Thoughtfully considered integrated counter balance weight system, comprised of four 10 gram (0.35oz) removable counter balance weights. Reel base weights and loaded options selected to provide optimal balance points for high performance nymph rods.
- Matte black finish counter weights and retention screws for a stealthy approach to the fish without flash or reflection.
Spare spools for Ideal Nymph reels available here.
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Ideal Nymph Reel Specifications
| Model | Frame Diameter | Frame Width | Weight (weights & screws removed; no fly line) | Loaded Weight Options (with added weights; no fly line) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INR12 | 3.42" | 1.00" | 4.49 oz | 4.97 oz / 5.33 oz / 5.68 oz / 6.03 oz |
| INR34 | 3.86" | 1.00" | 4.81 oz | 5.29 oz / 5.64 oz / 6.00 oz / 6.35 oz |
| INR67 | 4.29" | 1.18" | 6.22 oz | 6.70 oz / 7.05 oz / 7.41 oz / 7.76 oz |
Diamondback Performance Reels
Ideal Nymph Reel
Perfectly Tuned Balance
A modular adjustable weight system, combined with an offset reel foot that shifts weight rearward, allows for effortless, wrist-precise control at arm’s length and optimal balance with your Ideal Nymph rod, or any other Euro-nymphing rod.
Purpose-Built for Ultra-light Setups
Fitted with a smooth drag system and 5-axis CNC machined to tight tolerances, a closed cage with refined, rounded edges prevent fine mono leaders and thin lines from catching or fraying.
Angler-Focused, Field-Tested Design
Featuring a stealthy matte black, non-reflective finish to a reversible reel-foot, grippy drag knob, and wide grip handle, enhance control, comfort, and reliability when handling everything from delicate trout to surprise big fish.
Customer Reviews
The ideal nymph reel is amazing. Precision machined, ultra smooth and finely adjustable drag. It is perfect for Euro nymphing. I love the look, offset reel seat, beautiful reel. It balanced perfectly with my Ideal Nymph 4 weight 10 foot – 10 inch rod. I fish this rod for tributary fish (browns and steelhead) and smallmouth.
On my first outing, I landed my personal best smallmouth – 20 inches, 16 inch girth, estimates at 6.4 lbs. A youth I mentor, landed his personal best smallmouth – 19 inches – on the same reel.
In the past, the leader would get caught under the frame of my former reel, requiring removing the spool up to 6 times a day. On the Ideal Nymph reel, in several weeks of fishing, the leader has never got caught.
I love it! Its smooth, machined with precision and large harbor make it really fast to retrieve even with mono. Im move a vintage clicker reel guy, but the hightech design with ballance weight is pretty cool!
I encountered a mechanical problem with my Ideal Nymph Reel and the malfunctioning part was replaced free of charge. I’m back to action with a great reel.
This is a solid euro nymphing reel. It is super smooth. It never tangles and the line never escapes the cage. you can have a ton of line out and when reeling in it will not tangle. it balances the DMB 10'10" 2wt extremely well. i will buy another.
The Ideal Nymph Reel is the finest reel I’ve ever owned! I love it!