Let me tell you something straight up—if you’re in the market for a fly reel that punches way above its price tag, you need to check out the Cheeky Tyro Series.
I’ve been casting lines for years, and finding a reel that blends performance, durability, and a sub-$200 price is like spotting a unicorn on the riverbank.
Cheeky Fishing nailed it with this one, and whether you’re just starting out or you’ve got a dozen rods in your arsenal, this reel deserves a spot in your gear bag. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
My Experience With The Cheeky Tyro Fly Reel
Picture this: I’m standing knee-deep in a crisp New England river last summer, the sun just peeking over the trees, and I’ve got my Tyro 350 spooled up with a 5-weight line.
I’d heard the buzz about Cheeky’s entry-level wonder, but I wasn’t prepared for how it’d feel in my hands.
The first thing that hit me was the weight—or rather, the lack of it.
At 5.3 ounces, it’s light enough that I barely noticed it on my old Sage rod, yet it balanced like it was custom-made for it.
I’m not one for flashy gear, so the understated black-and-gunmetal finish was right up my alley—no gaudy gold hubs screaming for attention.
My first cast was smooth as butter. The reel hummed quietly as the line peeled out, none of that obnoxious clicking you get with some reels. I hooked into a feisty trout about 20 minutes in, and that’s when the Rev Carbon Drag System showed its teeth.
This wasn’t some cheap drag that stutters or locks up—it adjusted with a finesse that let me tire out that fish without snapping my tippet. I could feel every tweak of the knob, and it gave me just the right feedback to keep control.
Later that day, I tangled with a chain pickerel that had no business being that aggressive, and the Tyro didn’t flinch. The quick-change spool came in handy too—I swapped lines in under a minute when I switched from trout to bass, no fumbling around like I’ve done with clunkier reels.
I’ve taken it out a dozen times since, from small streams to ponds, and it’s become my go-to. It’s not just the performance; it’s the vibe. Holding it feels like you’ve got something solid, something that’s been thought through.
Cheeky’s blend of die-casting and CNC machining isn’t just marketing fluff—it shows in the finish and the way it handles. I even dropped it on a rock once (oops), and it came away with barely a scratch. For an “entry-level” reel, it’s got the soul of something pricier, and I’m hooked—pun intended.
Pros of The Cheeky Tyro Fly Reel
- Lightweight Yet Tough as Nails
You know that moment when you’re hours into a fishing trip and your arm starts begging for mercy?
The Tyro Series keeps that at bay.
The Tyro 300 weighs in at 4.6 ounces, the 350 at 5.3, and the 375 at 5.6—light enough to forget it’s there, but don’t let that fool you.
The die-cast frame takes a beating without bending, and the CNC-machined bits like the reel foot and drag knob give it a polished edge.
I’ve banged mine around plenty, and it still looks sharp.
- Rev Carbon Drag Steals the Show
Let’s talk drag because this is where the Tyro shines. The Rev Carbon Drag System is smooth as satin and strong enough to lock down a big fish when it’s thrashing close to the boat. I’ve cranked it tight on bass and eased it off for trout, and it’s never let me down.
You can feel the precision in every turn of the knob—it’s not some vague twist-and-pray setup. For under $200, this kind of drag is a steal.
- Silent Retrieve for Stealth Mode
If you’re like me and prefer sneaking up on fish without announcing your presence, the silent retrieve is a game-changer. There’s no loud clicking or clunking when you reel in or let line out.
It’s quiet as a church mouse, and I love that. It’s not just about spooking fish less—it’s about enjoying the peace of the water without mechanical chatter.
- Quick-Change Spool Saves the Day
Swapping spools mid-trip used to be a hassle with my old reels, but the Tyro’s quick-change system is a breeze. I’ve switched from a 5-weight to a 6 in seconds, no tools needed.
It’s perfect when you’re chasing different species or adapting to changing conditions. You’ll wonder why every reel doesn’t do this.
- Killer Value Under $200
Here’s the kicker: you’re getting all this for less than two hundred bucks. I’ve fished reels twice the price that don’t perform this well. The Triple Play combo—reel, spool, and case—is an even sweeter deal if you’re starting out or want backup options. It’s hard to argue with that kind of bang for your buck.
Cons of The Cheeky Tyro Fly Reel
- Not the Flashiest Looker: Okay, I’ll admit it—the Tyro isn’t winning any beauty contests. If you’re into reels that scream “look at me” with bold colors or wild porting, this might feel tame. I like the understated vibe, but my buddy who loves loud gear wasn’t impressed. It’s more about function than flair.
- Limited Size Range: The Tyro Series tops out at the 375, which is great for trout, bass, and pickerel, but if you’re chasing bigger fish like steelhead or saltwater species, you might need to step up to Cheeky’s pricier lines. I’ve pushed my 350 hard, but it’s not built for monsters. Know your quarry before you commit.
- Spool Availability Can Be Tricky: I ran into a snag when I wanted an extra spool in black/gunmetal from Bass Pro—they didn’t have it. Cheeky’s customer service came through and custom-made one, which was awesome, but it’s a hassle if you’re not near a retailer with stock. Plan ahead if you want spares.
Maintenance Tips For Your Cheeky Tyro Fly Reel
- Rinse It After Every Trip: You and I both know water’s a reel’s best friend and worst enemy. After every outing—especially if you’re near salt or muddy streams—give your Tyro a quick rinse with fresh water. I just run it under the tap for a minute, making sure to flush out the spool and drag area. It keeps grit from gumming up the works.
- Dry It Thoroughly: Once it’s rinsed, don’t just toss it in your bag. I pat mine dry with a soft cloth, focusing on the drag knob and spool edges where water likes to hide. Letting it air dry completely before storing prevents corrosion. I learned this the hard way with an older reel that rusted out.
- Lubricate the Drag Sparingly: The Rev Carbon Drag is low-maintenance, but a tiny drop of reel oil every few months keeps it silky. I use a toothpick to apply it—just a dab on the drag system—and work it in by turning the knob. Too much oil attracts dirt, so go easy. You’ll feel the difference on your next cast.
- Check the Spool Connection: That quick-change spool is a dream, but I make a habit of checking the connection before each trip. A little wiggle ensures it’s locked in tight. Once, I didn’t, and it loosened mid-cast—lesson learned. A 10-second check saves you a headache.
- Store It Right: I keep my Tyro in its included reel case when it’s not on the rod. It’s padded and keeps dust off, plus it’s a nice touch for the price. If you’re stashing it for the season, loosen the drag all the way to ease tension on the system. Your reel will thank you come spring.
Comparison of Cheeky Fly Reel With Other Brands
- Cheeky Tyro Vs. Lamson Liquid
I’ve fished the Lamson Liquid, and it’s a solid contender in this price range. The Liquid’s fully cast design feels a bit chunkier than the Tyro’s hybrid die-cast and CNC setup, and while it’s tough, it doesn’t have that featherlight vibe I love in the Tyro.
Lamson’s drag is reliable, but I’d give the edge to Cheeky’s Rev Carbon for smoothness and adjustability. You’re paying a bit more for the Liquid’s name, too—Tyro wins on value hands down.
- Cheeky Tyro Vs. Orvis Battenkill
The Orvis Battenkill has that classic look some anglers swear by, and its simplicity is charming. But when I’ve used it, the drag felt less refined than the Tyro’s—more basic, less responsive.
The Battenkill’s heavier, too, which wears on me after a long day. Cheeky’s modern features like the quick-change spool and silent retrieve make it feel like a leap forward, especially for the price.
- Cheeky Tyro Vs. Redington Behemoth
Redington’s Behemoth is a beast—bigger, bolder, and built for heavier fish. I’ve taken it out for bass and loved the raw power, but it’s overkill for trout and weighs more than the Tyro 375.
The Behemoth’s drag is stout, but noisier, and it lacks the Tyro’s finesse. If you’re staying freshwater-light, Cheeky’s the smarter pick; for bigger battles, Redington might edge it out.
- Cheeky Tyro Vs. Piscifun Sword
Piscifun’s Sword is another budget darling, and I’ve given it a spin. It’s cheaper than the Tyro, but you feel it—the finish isn’t as crisp, and the drag can get sticky under pressure.
The Tyro’s lightweight design and silent operation outclass it, though the Sword’s not a bad starter if you’re pinching pennies. I’d still spend the extra for Cheeky’s quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Cheeky doesn’t just make reels—they’ve got fly line, too, and I’ve tried it paired with my Tyro. It’s solid, with good float and smooth casting, but it’s not the star of their lineup. The reel’s the real gem. If you’re grabbing the Triple Play combo, the line’s a nice bonus, but I’d say their reels outshine their lines.
I’m biased after my Tyro experience, but I’d argue it’s the best under $200. You’re getting a lightweight build, killer drag, and extras like the quick-change spool that others skimp on. Compared to Lamson or Orvis in this bracket, Cheeky’s combo of performance and price is tough to beat.
Nope, and the Tyro proves it. I’ve fished $400 reels that look fancier but don’t fish better than this. If you’re targeting trout or bass, a high-end reel’s more about ego than necessity. Save the cash for gas to the river—Tyro’s got you covered.
For newbies, the Tyro 350 is my pick. It’s forgiving, with a smooth drag that won’t overwhelm you, and the Triple Play deal gives you options to grow into. It’s light, easy to handle, and won’t break the bank. You’ll feel like a pro without the frustration.
Conclusion: Get Your Hands on a Cheeky Tyro Today
Look, I’ve fished a lot of reels, and the Cheeky Tyro Series stands out as a no-brainer buy. It’s light, tough, and performs like it costs twice as much—perfect for anyone who loves fly fishing without the fuss.
Whether you’re new or seasoned, this reel’s a win. Grab one, hit the water, and thank me later. You’ll see what I mean when that first fish hits.
