In 1881, Ernest F. Pflueger first started manufacturing fish hooks called “The Enterprise Manufacturing Company”. When his son E.A. Pflueger took over his father’s company, he expanded the business to all aspects of fishing tackle and gear.
Recently, as I browsed through the isles of the “Best Out West” antique store located on North Main Street in Sheridan Wyoming, I came across a never-been-used perfect condition Pflueger “Medalist” fly reel – model 1495 DA. To my surprise, this vintage reel included the original box and all paperwork including reel instructions.



In 1931 C.T. Pflueger introduced the first “Medalist” model. In 1966, Shakespeare Tackle Company purchased The Pflueger Company. From 1966-1969 all “Medalist” models ended with the letters “DA”.
I wanted to put this rare and vintage “Medalist” model fly reel to work. After having the guys at The Fly Shop Of The Big Horns install a 5wt. trout fly line with backing, I was headed for the Wyoming streams. Mounted to my new R.L. Winston 7’6” 4wt. rod I knew I was in for a special and fun day. As expected, my new reel performed extremely smooth and had all the rewards of modern technology.



Next time your browse around an old antique store or rummage through your neighborhood garage sale, don’t be afraid to purchase old fly reels from the past. New isn’t always better.
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“Sheridan, Wyoming”$3.99 – $395.00
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“Polo Fields, Big Horn Wyoming”$3.99 – $395.00
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“Big Horn Mountains”$3.99 – $395.00
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“Brinton Spring Views”$3.99 – $395.00
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“Brinton Views”$3.99 – $395.00
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Stainless Steel Water Bottle-Steamboat Springs Colorado$29.00
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Stainless Steel Water Bottle-Big Horn Wyoming$29.00
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Stainless Steel Water Bottle-Livingston Montana | Yellowstone Valley$29.00
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“Road Trip – Paradise Valley, Montana”$3.99 – $395.00
I love the older USA Medalists… own many 1495’s and 1494’s with spare spools. Love the look and the gentle putt putt sound (like the sound of wheels on a train track) just bought 2 1495’s and a spare spool for $40…. huge score since each had fresh backing and new Cortland 333 & 444 lines (6,7 & 8)
Thanks Mike for comments. I think it is great to have extra fly line spools at your ready. I have noticed a lot of antique stores in Sheridan, WY have started to carry the old vintage Pflueger Medalist. Hope it is making a comeback! Carl.
I have onwed and fush the older Pflueger Reels since1958. I have tried a lot of reels in my 80 years including new reels of all kinds. Still fish my old Pflueger 1495 and 1498 reels.