Nottingham-style reels are typically light, free-running, wooden reels designed for river fishing. They resemble fly reels, and some were used for fly fishing, but the majority were used for bait fishing. The free-running nature of these reels enabled baited float tackle to drift in the current without any drag. This walnut and brass reel from the famous pipemaking firm founded by Alfred Dunhill is a refined example with line guard, quick spool release, and twin horn knobs mounted on willow leaf brass collets.
The American Museum of Fly Fishing Collection
Gift of Frederic A. Sharf
