Loading... Please wait...PLEASE NOTE - I have no way of sending you the files if you enter the wrong email address and also enter fictitious phone numbers and address. I have no way of contacting you in this situation. If you register and do not hear back from me in 5 days or more, please email me directly do not reregister as there is probably an issue with your email address. That way I'll have a valid email address. DO NOT email me directly without first registering first though!
IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ
The instructions and STL files in a zip file will be emailed to you - usually within 24 hours - after you register. I made this change because over the last year a few individuals (actually more than 100) filled in the form with inappropriate comments or gobbeledygook. This raised the concern that they did not read (and agree to) the reasonable CONDITIONS outlined below (PLEASE READ THEM).
The 1000s of folks who provided their email addresses can confirm that I have only sent two email updates to the list over the course of the year. One email announced the availability of the updated version 5.1 reel files and the other a new ultralight 3D fly reel in development.
Unfortunately, this new process might result in a delay before you receive the files and for that I apologize. While you wait, I encourage you to read the Printing and Assembly Instructions.
If you are in a hurry or if you would like to support this project and my innovative work in 3D printing and fly fishing, you can make a small donation and the files will be available for immediate download here: 3D Printed Reel Plans - $5 Donation
If you've already downloaded the files and would like to make a donation (even $1 would be great), please use this PayPal button:
You can download the instructions without registering to see what's involved in printing and assembling the reel.
I like to print the reel in PLA. I have also printed them in ABS. Nylon should work also. The design and clearances were optimized for PLA and ABS, Nylon may be different. If you succesfully print a reel in Nylon, let me know.
These files are standard STL files that can be opened in your slicer application or most CAD programs. I like to use KISSlicer but most any slicer will work.
The reel weighs in at 45 gms / 1.6 ounces. It is 3" in diameter and designed to hold up to a 5 wt line with backing.
Previous | Showing reviews 11-20 of 23 | Next
Posted by Josh Barker on 3rd Oct 2015
Alright I know most of you think this reel will fail. But NO it's amazing, it's durable and well made.
Posted by Steve on 21st Aug 2015
Saw the Field and Stream video and knew I had to try to make one. I have built two of these little bundles of joy using red ABSplus material in a Dimension sst1200es printer at the community college where I work. Had zero problems with parts/files, and fit of everything was fantastic. Very little hand fitting.
Only problem I had was trying to keep my boss from taking them once they were done...
Michael, have you tried using a piece of model material directly off a spool for the click check instead of a piece of nylon rod?
Thank you for the time and effort you have put in to the development of this fantastic product!
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Michael's reply:
Thanks for the review and glad you like the reels! Send photos - especially a "reel & fish" shot!
Yes, you can use printable filament. I've used Nylon. PLA is too hard/brittle. Some of the modified ABS filaments will work. Did you read the Tip posted on the download page (here) where I use a piece of Zip Tie? Those work absolutely the best. You can print one in Nylon too or just use one laying around.
Posted by Dirk on 29th Jun 2015
Great files. We are currently building our second reel. The small post on the back plate are a little fragile, but all in all a great little reel!
Posted by Mark on 25th Jun 2015
Even though I am not a "fly fisherman", when I read the article in Field & Stream, I thought it looked interesting. Needless to say I was amazed to see the download was free!
The instructions for printing and assembly were easy to follow. The reel functions perfectly and now all I need is to go buy a rod and line to try it out.
Hence the reasons for only 4 stars. Once I catch that first fish, I expect the rating to go to 5 stars.
Posted by Les on 20th Jun 2015
I not only built a fully functional fishing reel, I learned a lot more about changing print parameters with Simplify3D and my Printrbot printer. I made many attempts printing different parts, but finally settled in on what settings worked best (so far) for the print(s). Thanks for sharing Mike!
Posted by Pete Fontaine on 12th Jun 2015
I built one with translucent material on OBJET and a second with Stratasys white ABS back and front ring and translucent ratchet and spool. Both fit beautifully with zero hand work!
Thank you for a superb showpiece.
Posted by Unknown on 6th Jun 2015
This was a cool product to make and use just one cool thing yall can add is a bigger reel to catch bigger fish
MICHAEL'S RESPONSE:
Every technology and design has its limits. Perhaps someday a larger reel that could land a Striper or big Salmon could be designed and printed on a consumer level 3D printer but we have to start somewhere. I don't understand why you felt compelled to give a 3 star rating and remain anonymous but I am going to allow this review and rating like I do all reviews and ratings for my products.
Posted by Abazabba on 4th Jun 2015
he's tough cookie, he's my father-in-law. I'm a nerdy nice guy. I'm sure he's happy I married his daughter, but i"ll bet he rather I'd be a hunter and outdoorsman, instead I design and build 3d printers as a hobby.
This 3d reel may be the bridge I needed to try and reach him.
Very well designed 3d files, easy to assemble, and I learned a cool trick (no shells) by following the clear directions. THANK YOU!
MICHAEL's EDIT:
Thank you, glad you enjoyed printing it and learning a new trick!
Posted by Mark Bradner on 12th May 2015
I'm such a noob that I haven't built one yet. However the detail of your excellent instructions give me confidence that I'l be able to make one when I have developed the requisite skills. I only received my Lulzbot Taz 5 a little over a month ago, and am still immersed in filtering my way through the myriad variables in making a good print. I might add that your two tutorials on the Lulzbot site are invaluable to my achieving the goal of making perfect prints. I'm highly confident if not highly competent yet... :-)
Thank you for your efforts to this community...
Mark -
Posted by Christopher on 26th Mar 2015
The impressive design and the continued development will only push this concept to more advanced designs and materials. I can't wait to see what Michael comes up with next!