Kristen Mustad is the founder and owner of Nautilus Reels, a Florida-based company that strives to make the “world’s best fly reel.” Fly reels are obviously an integral part of any angler’s kit, and they play an incredibly important role when it comes to success in destination angling – especially when chasing large, strong, or exotic fish that demand the most from our gear and equipment. In this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug sits down with Kristen to talk reel design, the importance of finding the right reels for the traveling angler, what to look for when buying a reel, different drag materials and technologies, the pros and cons of different types of backing,  and his perspective on the “next big thing” for fly reel design and innovation. Kristen also weighs in on the importance of specialty fly shops and retailers for the fly fishing industry and discusses Nautilus’ visit to the White House in 2020.

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Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

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