REEL TALK: Hardy Zane Carbon

Written by: Patrick Bauman

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Time to read 2 min

In case you missed it, we're heading down to Xcalak, Mexico this coming spring, where we'll be chasing permit, bonefish, and tarpon. In preparation for the trip (we still have a few spots open here!) we wanted to highlight some of the gear that's required to get the job done in one of the best flats fishing environments on the planet. 


For most trout and freshwater fly anglers, reels are not much more than a line holder. Even the wildest trout runs rarely (if ever) take you far into the backing, and most fish can be tamed with steady hand-lining. In the world of saltwater fly fishing, this is simply not the case. When you finally convince a bonefish to eat a Crazy Charlie in mere inches of water, the journey to get that fish in a net has only just begun, and you'll need the assistance of a flawless saltwater drag system to finish the job. If you're looking for top-tier performance that stands up to the most blistering, tippet-snapping, drag-burning runs, look no further than Hardy's Zane Carbon reels. 

Built for landing the fish of a lifetime

When it comes to winning epic battles that reach deep into your backing, you'll want a reel that can handle not only screaming straight-line runs, but variations in speed and direction. When anglers lose fish on long runs, it's often not because of a failed drag system, but because that system didn't respond well to changes in line speed and force. When a fish hits the brakes only to take off in an opposing direction, you want a drag that remains buttery smooth throughout that transition. Hardy's Zane Carbon fly reel is more than up to this task. Built with a multi-pad sealed disc drag, this large arbor reel boasts an incredible amount of stopping power and silky-smooth action throughout a fight. 


One of this reel's best features is its tuning knob. The dial has large indents that allow anglers to quickly adjust the drag settings while fighting fish. These indents allow you to make accurate adjustments without taking your eyes off the water. 


Sizing guide

Hardy Zane Carbon reels come in 4 different sizes: 6000, 8000, 10000, and 12000. Here's a general guide for what species pair best with each size. 


The smaller models (6000 and 8000 series) are appropriate for lighter inshore fishing targeting species like (smaller) bonefish, redfish, and seatrout.


The larger models (10000 and 12000 series) are ideal for pursuing trophy bones and redfish, permit, and tarpon. The 12000 series is appropriate for larger pelagic species as well.



Stat Cast

  • 6000, 8000, 10000, 12000 weight options available
  • Built with 6061 barstock and protected with a salt-safe anodized finish.
  • 340-degree drag control knob with hard indents
  • Fully sealed drag with 10lbs+ stopping power

"If you're looking for top-tier performance that stands up to the most blistering, tippet-snapping, drag-burning runs, look no further than Hardy's Zane Carbon reels."

The final line

If you're planning to hit the salt, don't show up with the wrong equipment. A reel designed for freshwater use simply isn't appropriate in a flats environment and will only lead to heartbreak and frustration. Invest in a quality tool that's designed to help you land the flats fish of your dreams. 


Interested in a test ride? Stop by the shop any time to get your hands on our full selection of premium rods.

Shilton reel