Bauer MXP Fly Reels

If you guessed I'm a Bauer reel fan, you would be correct! It's my favorite brand of fly reel.

The MacKenzie Xtreme Perfect (MXP) is one of my Bauer series of reels and is just a fabulous lightweight fly reel, capable of some big game performance. Based on the original award winning MacKenzie reel, the MXP is a blend of high quality materials and classic styling. Of note, the reel uses the same patented drag system as the big game MacKenzie SuperLite.

The large arbor diameter and shallower spool depth on the MXP maximizes retrieval speed and minimizes any increase with drag pressure. It has a jet black mirror finish with optional spool finish colors. I have three spools in green, gold, and titanium...and wish I had a black spool for the MXP2. Lightweight alloys and precision machining make the MXP truly a work of art in both form and function. You know it is a quality build as soon as you pick one up in your hands. My understanding is that Bauer discontinued its MXP series in 2016.

Features

• Precision machined 100% aerospace bar stock aluminum and stainless steel construction for maximum strength and corrosion protection
• Three precision sealed stainless steel ball bearings
• No plastic parts or bushings
• Large diameter Cork/FXB polymer disc drag delivers an ultra smooth and low start-up inertia
• Patented seamless drag clutch with “zero-backlash"
• Easy one finger, star drag adjustment
• Silent retrieve with a crisp out-going click
• Quick release spool
• Simple retrieve direction conversion
• Exposed palming rim for additional control
• Deep anodized, Jet Black polished glossy finish
• Fully ported frame and spool
• Hardwood crank handle
• The lightest reels in their class
• Designed and Manufactured in the U.S.A.
• Lifetime guarantee. U.S. Patent #5921492

I use the MXP on both Winston and Sage fly rods...can't lock in a more high performing and reliable reel, even when compared to today's hi-tech reels on the market. I have the MXP1 (3.25") and MXP2 (3.25") reels and would add the MXP3 (3.5") reel if I could find one.

Rod/reel combos below from top of page to bottom are: Winston BIIt 9' 5wt/MXP2; Winston BIIILS 8' 4wt/MXP2; Sage Little ONE 8'2" 4wt/MXP1; Winston BIIt 9' 5wt/MXP2.

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