Reel weight ratings

[Granddad]

How important is it that a reel's line rating equal its weight rating? I ordered a reel rated for 5/6 weight line on Ebay. The dealer inadvertently sent me a large arbor reel rated for 9/10 weight--a significantly better quality model than I had ordered. I e-mailed the dealer and he did not have what I had ordered. He said he would paypal me the postage and refund my purchase price IF I WANTED TO RETURN THE REEL. He seems not to care whether I return the reel or not even though its retail price is over twice the amount I paid. So my question is, if I keep the 9/10 weight reel (I probably won't--I'm not sure it would be ethical to do so), what are the disadvantages of using it with a 6 weight rod?
Bill

[Trout8myfly]

If the seller gave you the option on the return then it doesn't seem like any ethics are violated if you keep the reel (assuming I read that right). Sometimes the hassle factor (and cost) is more than the profit margin in simply letting the merchandise remain with the client.

As for the reel itself, I'm betting that the drag is probably stronger than a reel intended for 5 or 6 weight since the manufacturer assumes that big fish are the prey. More experienced posters may weigh in (pun intended) with differing opinions. The reel is probably somewhat heavier than a 5/6 wt reel so bear that in mind when it comes time for casting.

Anyway, IMHO a fly reel is largely just a take up reel to manage line, especially for trout and small panfish. And a large arbor is nice for minimizing line coil, line memory and the need for miles of backing. I have an Orvis large arbor and love it for helping to keep my line straight.

The only other caveat is if the reel will require more line and backing than the smaller size, large arbor notwithstanding.

Nothing says you can't load 6wt line on a 9wt reel. Anyway the fish don't care.

One man's opinion.

[GonetoSeed]

Trout8my fly is correct, the reel doesn't know what line is spooled. However, I'd be concerned with the reel's absolute weight and especially its effect on the balance of the rod/reel combination. Its own weight and the weight of the extra backing will most likely make the reel/rod combination very butt heavy. This will not make it totally impossible to cast, but most likely will require adjustments to your stroke and that and the added weight won't make it very fun to cast. Especially during a long day. Personnally, I would prefer to get the refund and then find a reel that balanced better with this rod.

But, the ethical question is interesting. I find it intriquing that he doesn't have what you want in stock and doesn't seem to care if you return the reel. This is speculation, but it smells kind of like a bait and switch. Not knowing all models and prices involved its hard to tell just how much the guy is really giving up in margin. He may be hoping you won't return it and he was able to move a lower selling product. The market for 9/10 wt reels is relatively small. For him, just getting his cost back might be what he's after. In this case, if you think you would ever need a 9/10 rated rod, I would talk to him again and if he still downplays wanting to get it back, think I would keep it.

[GUTHOOKED]

Hey Granddad, what kind of reel is it? If the seller doesn't want it back, I may buy it from you.

[NickelCigar]

I just hung a 9wt. reel on a 6wt. It's not a good idea!

[Granddad]

It's a Pflueger Trion 1990, brand new in the box. Champion Outfitters sells them for $90 and has a good description of them on their web site. If I can determine that the buyer would prefer not to have it back, I will sell it to you for what I paid--$50.13, plus shipping. Let me know whether or not you are still interested by tomorrow morning, and I'll check with the seller.
Bill

[GUTHOOKED]

No, that's not quite what I'm looking for. Thanks anyway, though.

[Jojadog]

You now need to get a rod to match the reel.
Problem solved.

Pete