Each winter, brands bring new and updated gear to the Denver Fly Fishing Show. It’s a chance to see what’s changing, what’s being refined, and what products are making their way into anglers’ hands in the coming season. We spent time on the show floor focusing on rods, reels, apparel, and accessories that stood out with thoughtful design and practical improvements. These are the products that caught our attention at the 2026 Denver Fly Fishing Show.
All products featured on Flylords are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
ORVIS
ORVIS RECON (GEN 3)
The new 2026 Recon series from Orvis packs Helios-inspired technology into a mid-range priced rod. Redesigned to be about 20 percent stronger than its predecessor, Recon rods aim to balance durability with performance across both fresh and saltwater. With a wide range spanning 3-11wt in their freshwater lineup and 6-11wt in salt, Recon is positioned as a do-everything, go-anywhere tool for anglers who want high-end castability without flagship pricing.
ORVIS HYDROS REEL
The Hydros has long been Orvis’s best-selling reel, known for durability and reliability. This updated version builds on that reputation with a fully machined and anodized frame, an improved fully sealed drag, and a large-arbor design for faster line pickup. A redesigned, ergonomic drag knob improves adjustability, and the reel now features tool-free retrieve conversion, addressing one of the main limitations of the previous generation.
ORVIS RATIO REEL
The Ratio reel represents a clear step forward in Orvis’s saltwater lineup. Built around a strength-to-weight focused design, it pairs a rigid frame with a large, easy-to-adjust drag knob and a sealed drag system intended for demanding saltwater use. Available in gold, blackout, and silver/deep finishes, and spanning sizes III through VI, the Ratio is positioned as Orvis’s most performance-driven saltwater reel to date, emphasizing control and stopping power.
SAGE
SAGE ARROW
The Arrow is Sage’s take on a true multi-application rod, built to cover a wide range of freshwater scenarios. Designed with a fast, responsive blank, it’s intended to balance power and feel across different techniques, from dries to streamers. Arrow sits as a versatile option in Sage’s lineup.
SAGE POWER R8
Power R8 is a newer rod in Sage’s lineup, built on their R8 material platform, designed with an emphasis on speed and power. At around $1,100, it sits firmly in the premium category and reflects Sage’s continued focus on high-end materials and modern rod design.
REDINGTON
REDINGTON CLASSIC TROUT REEL
The Classic Trout is a simple, traditional reel that leans into sound and feel. It has a pronounced audible retrieve, straightforward control, and a look that pairs naturally with lighter rods. Fully machined and built to be fished often, it’s a reel designed for everyday trout fishing without unnecessary complexity.
ABEL & ROSS
ABEL SDX
The SDX represents Abel’s most robust reel platform to date, engineered for heavy saltwater and Spey applications with an extra-large arbor, rapid line pickup of up to 17.5 inches per turn, and a sealed drag system. Built for sustained pressure and long runs, the SDX prioritizes control, capacity, and durability in demanding environments.
ROSS CIMARRON LT
The Cimarron LT builds directly on the original Cimarron, retaining its classic look while updating the platform for lighter weight and improved performance. A reworked frame with aggressive porting reduces weight, while a smooth composite disc drag and refined hardware bring the reel up to modern standards.
G. LOOMIS
The Asquith is G. Loomis’s top-end fly rod platform, covering both freshwater and saltwater applications. Updated for 2026, the latest version feels slightly lighter in swing weight with more consistent recovery through the cast, especially at longer distances. Premium components and a refined reel seat round out a rod built for anglers who value precision, consistency, and build quality enough to justify the price.
R.L. WINSTON
WINSTON AIR 2 5-PIECE TRAVEL ROD
The AIR 2 5-piece rods bring Winston’s award-winning material platform into a travel format, delivering the classic Winston action in a compact design that fits easily into packs, carry-ons, or backcountry kits. Smooth loading, accuracy, and fast line speed define each model, setting a new standard for high-performance packable trout rods.
NRS
NRS THROW BACK FISHING SEAT BAG
A utility-oriented seat bag that turns the back of most molded boat seats into practical storage. It stays out of the way while keeping essentials organized and easy to reach. The removable storage pack and lash points give anglers spots for tools and small gear without crowding deck space.
NRS STRIPPING BASKET FOR MOLDED THIGH HOOK
Another solid accessory from NRS, this stripping basket integrates directly into their molded thigh hook system found on Slipstream and Approach fishing rafts. It keeps loose line in the raft without adding bulk, fitting cleanly into a raft setup.
COSTA
COSTA PILOTHOUSE PRO SUNGLASSES
The Pilothouse Pro represents a shift for Costa, pairing their established lens clarity with Z87.1+ certified impact protection. It’s the first time Costa has built a sunglass around protective standards, adding a layer of safety without compromising visibility or comfort on the water.
SKWALA
SKWALA RS BIB
Skwala’s RS Bib follows their core approach: design gear around how anglers actually move on the water. The RS bib prioritizes mobility and weather protection without the bulk of traditional foul-weather gear. Stretch materials, practical zipper placement, and reinforced knees make it a piece designed for long days when you’re casting, rowing, and kneeling.
