Early Brass Hardy Perfect Trout Reel

Arguably the most popular trout reel in the world, the Hardy Perfect has remained in the Hardy lineup for more than 130 years. First offered in company catalogs circa 1891, the reel was initially introduced to the angling community in 1890 at the Sportsman’s Exhibition held in Islington, England. The earliest reels, such as this example, were among the first to use ball bearings; they also lacked a frame. It was instead held together with a threaded stud, which connected the spool with the winding plate.

Courtesy of Tyler Thompson

Yearc. 1890Accession No.L2022.003.008Made byHardy