The Tibor series of reels were first introduced in 1995 and have established themselves as the benchmark for custom-crafted fly reels. After years of development and input from the likes of Lefty Kreh and Flip Pallot, Ted was finally satisfied with a reel that truly has set a new standard in fly fishing reel technology.
The Tibor Riptide Fly Reel in Frost Silver is built for anglers who want a reel they can trust when the conditions are hard on gear and the fish do not give you many second chances. In saltwater, a reel has to do a few things exceptionally well: apply consistent drag pressure, pick up line cleanly, and keep working after repeated exposure to spray, sand, and heat. The Riptide is designed around that reality, giving you a platform meant for long-term use rather than short-term shine.
On the water, the value shows up in the moments that matter, when a fish changes direction, when line is moving fast, and when you need the drag to stay smooth without sticking or surging. This reel is a strong fit for flats fishing and nearshore applications where dependable performance and durability are the priority, not gimmicks.
The spool's large arbor design significantly enhances the rate of line retrieval which is critical when you're trying to control speedsters like bonefish, bonito, or wahoo.
As with all of Ted's reels, the drag system is absolutely flawless and has withstood the test of the world's most demanding game fish, including 250 World Records, so far. If you were to own only one fly reel, this is the one to have.
Features -
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Large outer hub diameters offer quick retrieve, even when the backing is low.
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Hard coated, aluminum Main Gear means minimal heat build-up and great strength. Both the Main Gear and Spool rotate flawlessly on three sealed precision, ceramic Ball Bearings
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An impregnated Cork Drag Disc is the smoothest and strongest in the industry.
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Open hubbed, perforated Spool and Drum allow the Reel to remain cool during scorching runs and outer holes act as a tippet keeper.
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The Detended Drag Adjustment Knob is smooth and positive.
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Triple outgoing line signals are easily removable for silent operation.
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Lightweight to balance with modern fly rods and reduce casting fatigue.
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Made from solid bar stock aluminum.
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Our delrin handle offers positive gripping and quick release - The Gulfstream and Pacific come standard with our Gorilla Handle.
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SpeedHandle Spool option available.
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Comes with an extra thick neoprene case for easy storage and transportation.
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Finishes: Frost Silver, Frost Black, Satin Gold, Jet Black, Royal Blue, Crimson, Graphite Gray & Aqua.
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Each reel is serialized for identification and protection. The serial # is located at the top of the frame by the reel stand.
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Available in 4 sizes.
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Made and assembled in the U.S.A.
Specs -
| Model | Diameter | Weight | Rod wt | Line |
| Everglades | 3 3/4" | 8.5 oz | 7/8/9 | WF8+200yds/20# |
| Riptide | 4" | 9.0 oz | 9/10/11 | WF10+200yds/30# |
| Gulfstream | 4 3/8" | 10.9 oz | 11/12/13/14/15 | WF12+300yds/30# |
| Pacific | 5 1/16" | 13.2 oz | 13/14/15 | WF14+600yds/40# |
Not sure which Riptide size matches your rod and line weight, or how much backing you should run?
Call the shop and we’ll help you choose the right frame and a balanced setup for your target species.
Tibor Riptide Fly R...