White River Fly Shop vanguard 2XL

# **Kylebooker White River Fly Shop Vanguard 2XL: Is It Worth the Money?**

As an avid angler, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fishing gear. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker White River Fly Shop Vanguard 2XL**, a popular choice among fly fishing enthusiasts. But does it offer good value for money? In this review, I’ll break down its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness to help fellow anglers decide if it’s worth the investment.

## **Overview of the Vanguard 2XL**

The **Vanguard 2XL** is a mid-range fly fishing reel designed for both beginners and experienced anglers. Manufactured by **White River Fly Shop**, a trusted name in fishing equipment, this reel is known for its durability and smooth drag system. It’s particularly suited for freshwater fishing, targeting species like trout, bass, and even smaller steelhead.

### **Key Features**

1. **Durable Construction**
– Made from **machined aluminum**, the Vanguard 2XL is lightweight yet sturdy, ensuring longevity even in tough fishing conditions.
– The **anodized finish** provides corrosion resistance, making it suitable for both freshwater and light saltwater use.

2. **Smooth Drag System**
– The **disc drag system** is highly responsive, allowing for precise control when fighting fish.
– It offers **adjustable tension**, which is crucial when dealing with aggressive fish that make sudden runs.

3. **Large Arbor Design**
– The **large arbor** helps in faster line retrieval, reducing slack and improving casting efficiency.
– It also minimizes line memory, which is a common issue with standard reels.

4. **Compatibility & Versatility**
– Designed for **5-8 weight fly lines**, the Vanguard 2XL is versatile enough for different fishing scenarios.
– It balances well with most mid-to-heavy fly rods, making it a great all-around reel.

## **Performance on the Water**

I tested the Vanguard 2XL on a weekend trout fishing trip, and here’s what I found:

– **Smooth Retrieval**: The reel performed flawlessly, with no jerky movements even when a larger trout took the line.
– **Drag Efficiency**: The drag adjustment was smooth, allowing me to tire out the fish without risking a broken leader.
– **Lightweight Feel**: Despite its sturdy build, the reel didn’t add unnecessary weight to my rod setup, making long casting sessions comfortable.

## **Price & Value for Money**

One of the biggest selling points of the **Vanguard 2XL** is its **affordability**. Compared to high-end reels from brands like **Orvis** or **Sage**, which can cost **$300+**, the Vanguard 2XL sits comfortably in the **$100-$150** range.

### **Pros:**
✔ Excellent build quality for the price
✔ Smooth and reliable drag system
✔ Lightweight yet durable
✔ Good for both beginners and intermediate anglers

### **Cons:**
✖ Not ideal for heavy saltwater fishing
✖ Some anglers might prefer a sealed drag system for extreme conditions

## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**

If you’re looking for a **budget-friendly yet high-performing fly reel**, the **Kylebooker White River Fly Shop Vanguard 2XL** is a solid choice. It delivers **great value for money**, especially for freshwater anglers who need a reliable reel without breaking the bank.

While it may not compete with ultra-premium reels in extreme conditions, it’s more than capable of handling most freshwater fishing scenarios. For its price range, the **Vanguard 2XL** is definitely a **smart buy** for fly fishing enthusiasts.

Would I recommend it? **Absolutely!** It’s a great addition to any angler’s gear collection.

**Rating: 4.5/5**

Have you tried the Vanguard 2XL? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🎣