Winston Reel Seats

So, do you prefer a downlocking or uplocking reel seat? Each is perfectly good. I became a downlocking fan at some point during my fly fishing life. And, I'm guessing vintage bamboo rods are probably the reason why, since downlocking reel seats were so common through the decades...they just look "right" to the eye and say "fly rod" to me.

Unfortunately, Winston only builds uplocking seats in today's market. Prior to 2010, Winston offered the consumer a wide variety of reel seats that made for quite beautiful rod builds. Since these options are no longer available, the absence makes for a few collectors...in search of select classic rod models from years past.

Some photos of different types of Winston reel seats, with a variety of spacers, are posted below. Of particular note, many small stream anglers like seats with cap and sliding band hardware to keep the fly rod as light as possible. I do too. And, since the hardware is made from nickel silver in that distinctive Winston design, there is no mistaking the rod brand. Simply, a classy aesthetic in my view. Another benefit of downlocking seats with nickel silver hardware? They contribute to the rod having a lighter swing weight.

Click on photo for larger view