Hollander sent over the P50 serial # 017 with the large arbor spool, and one traditional spool. Sized for 5, 6 and 7 wt. lines.

For the full size image, click here.
Thanks to Dan Jackson (DanJ) for that great shot of the reel!

This reel is a shining example of master craftsmanship. Top of the line in every way. I would go so far as to call it a collectors item. Something that will be passed down for generations.
Nicely packaged like something jewelry might come in. It also contained a small Phillips driver for left or right hand retrieve and a top end reel case.

Once in your hand, twisting, turning, clicking, getting a good look at it, you know right away this is no ordinary reel. The machining is perfect, flawless, like it’s packaging suggests, this is like fine jewelry. Titanium, stainless steel and aircraft aluminum, oh my!
I used it with a 5wt reel setup on the LA spool. From large Lake Ontario carp to big large mouth bass, and of course a few browns! the drag did get a good work out on the carp and bass, the reel performance matched it’s fine good looks, perfect.

With the traditional spool now loaded up with 7wt line, it will soon be chasing steelhead, and there is no doubt in my mind how it will handle those brutes.
When you play around with quality equipment like this, it gives you a boost of confidence. You know whatever you hook into, losing a fish won’t be due to equipment failure.

Changing spools is a snap.

One click of the hex spindle, and it’s off. Now if your thinking…Hmmm, this might come off too easy if bumped, forget about it. The spools can’t be released by accident. If it’s bumped or banged it won’t move. You have to grasp it and give it a good click.
Once clicked, and set into the spool release position, you won’t believe how perfectly the machining is set around the hex. As the spool comes off the hex, Its almost like a suction is produced between the hex spindle and the spool, it’s that tight/smooth.

Onto the drag system……….
The drag is, well, it’s awesome. Caliper disc brake, with Kevlar brake pads and ventilated disk!

The drag knob is notched and easy to find and use when needed, but designed not to catch flailing fly line.

The colors, the overall shape, the feel, I like everything about this reel, perfect.
Right down to the spools light titanium counter balance, Hollander thought out everything carefully, and presented it in a beautiful design.

For those of you that don’t know who William "Bill" Hollander is, and would like a little background on the man and the machines, click here.

This reel sells for $500.00 US, consider it an investment, not only for you, but for many generations to come.

For more of Hollander’s design features (and there is a ton more!) check out their web site.
Related Link: Hollander Reels

This entry was posted on Thursday, September 2nd, 2004 at 2:06 pm by Rob McKay and is filed under Fly Reel Reviews. You can leave a response.