Hatch Iconic 11 Plus Fly Reel: A Masterclass in Big-Game Fly Fishing

Hatch Iconic 11 Plus Fly Reel: A Masterclass in Big-Game Fly Fishing

Introduction

When it comes to premium fly reels engineered for saltwater and big-game applications, few names evoke the respect that Hatch Outdoors does. Known for their precision machining and robust designs, Hatch reels are a staple in the arsenals of serious fly anglers. Among their offerings, the Hatch Iconic 11 Plus Fly Reel stands out as a powerhouse—designed to take on the toughest species from tarpon to tuna, GTs to billfish. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes the Iconic 11 Plus so exceptional: its design, materials, performance on the water, and how it compares to its peers.

A Brief History of Hatch Outdoors

Before we dissect the reel itself, it’s worth understanding the ethos behind the brand. Founded in 2003, Hatch Outdoors set out with a mission to produce high-quality fly fishing reels that bridged the gap between innovation and durability. Built in Southern California, Hatch reels have become synonymous with precision, reliability, and style—qualities that resonate deeply with saltwater anglers who demand the best.

With the release of the Iconic series in 2021, Hatch refined their already stellar design language and engineering to offer lighter, stronger, and more corrosion-resistant reels.

Design and Build Quality

One-Piece Machining

The most striking feature of the Hatch Iconic 11 Plus is its fully machined one-piece frame and reel seat. Unlike many reels that use a bolted-on reel foot, the Iconic integrates it into the body itself. This not only minimizes potential failure points but also provides unmatched rigidity—an essential trait when fighting fast, powerful fish.

Type II Anodization

The reel features Type II anodized aluminum, available in multiple color options such as Black/Silver, Clear/Blue, and Grey/Black. This anodization isn’t just for aesthetics; it provides excellent resistance to corrosion, a non-negotiable feature for saltwater use.

Large Arbor Spool

The large arbor design allows for quicker line retrieval, reduced line memory, and more consistent drag pressure over long runs. Hatch also uses a mid-arbor depth, which strikes a balance between backing capacity and speed.

Porting and Aesthetics

The porting on the reel body not only reduces weight but also gives the reel a signature visual appeal. Hatch’s minimalist, industrial design feels as comfortable in a glass case as it does on a flats skiff.

Size and Capacity

The 11 Plus is designed for line weights ranging from 11 to 13, making it ideal for:

• Tarpon
• Giant Trevally (GT)
• Bluewater species like tuna, dorado, and sailfish

Backing capacity is equally impressive. With a WF12F line, the reel holds approximately 350 yards of 30 lb Dacron backing or more if using 50 lb Gel-Spun. This gives anglers plenty of runway when a big fish makes a long first run.

Drag System: The Heart of the Beast

The multi-disc stacked drag system is one of the defining features of the Iconic series. Hatch employs a combination of Rulon and stainless-steel discs that create smooth, reliable drag pressure with minimal startup inertia.

Key Drag Features:

• Sealed Drag Housing: Keeps salt, sand, and grit out.
• Non-Creeping: Holds steady at set tension levels, critical during prolonged fights.
• 8+ lbs of Max Drag Pressure: Enough to stop freight-train runs, but adjustable with refined increments.

This system offers both finesse and power, enabling you to fine-tune resistance whether you’re protecting a light tippet or buttoning down for a brute.

Line Weights, Versatility, and Application

The 11 Plus excels in saltwater environments, but its rugged design also makes it suitable for trophy freshwater species like king salmon or large lake trout. That said, its size and drag strength are primarily tailored for:

• Flats fishing (tarpon, permit)
• Bluewater excursions (tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo)
• Jungle expeditions (peacock bass, golden dorado)

It’s overkill for trout or bass, but perfect for high-stakes, high-drama fly fishing where equipment failure isn’t an option.

Performance in the Field

Smooth Retrieval and Silent Drag

One of the more subtle pleasures of using the 11 Plus is its quiet yet authoritative drag system. When a tarpon peels off backing, the reel responds with a confident whisper rather than a loud click—something many seasoned anglers prefer in stealth scenarios.

Ergonomics

The large, knurled drag knob is easy to adjust, even with wet or gloved hands. The handle is large, comfortably contoured, and provides excellent grip—an underrated feature when adrenaline and salt spray are in the mix.

Balance and Weight

At roughly 10.6 oz (fully assembled), the reel feels surprisingly balanced on heavier 11–13 wt rods. It doesn't tip the setup excessively tail-heavy, which helps reduce fatigue during long days of casting.

Maintenance and Durability

Hatch reels are built for low maintenance. The sealed drag eliminates the need for constant cleaning, though a freshwater rinse after saltwater use is always good practice.

Longevity

Many anglers report using their Hatch reels for over a decade with minimal servicing. The materials and build quality mean the 11 Plus is likely to outlast most rods it’s paired with.

Spools and Modularity

One of the less discussed but highly useful features is the interchangeable spool system. Hatch offers spare spools that can be swapped quickly, allowing anglers to change lines without changing reels—ideal for guides or traveling anglers.

The Iconic spools are not backward-compatible with previous Hatch models like the Finatic, so it’s worth factoring that in if you’re upgrading or looking to mix-and-match components.

Price and Value

At around $1,000 USD, the Hatch Iconic 11 Plus is not cheap. However, you’re paying for:

• Premium materials
• American manufacturing
• Longevity
• Unmatched drag performance

It’s an investment, but for those who routinely target species that test gear to its limits, it’s money well spent.

Comparisons with Competing Reels

Hatch Iconic 11 Plus vs. Abel SDS 11/12

The Abel SDS offers a comparable drag range and also features beautiful machining. However, the Abel is often heavier and more expensive, and while it excels in craftsmanship, the Hatch is arguably more rugged in harsh conditions.

Hatch Iconic 11 Plus vs. Nautilus NV-G

Nautilus reels are excellent in terms of drag strength and spool capacity. The NV-G has a more open frame which is great for line drying but slightly less protected than the Hatch’s sealed design. Hatch wins in maintenance ease and saltwater protection.

Hatch Iconic 11 Plus vs. Tibor Riptide

Tibor reels are legendary, particularly in saltwater, but they use a cork drag system rather than a sealed disc. While Tibor fans love the smoothness, Hatch offers less maintenance and more modern aesthetics.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Bulletproof construction
• Industry-leading sealed drag
• Gorgeous design and finish
• Made in the USA
• Backing capacity and retrieval speed

Cons:

• High price point
• No backward compatibility with older Hatch spools
• Overkill for anything smaller than big game

Final Verdict

The Hatch Iconic 11 Plus Fly Reel is a flagship tool for anglers who go toe-to-toe with apex species. It combines cutting-edge design, brutal strength, and refined performance in a package that’s both beautiful and functional. While the price may be steep, the value it offers—in reliability, ease of use, and peace of mind—is undeniable.

If you chase tarpon, GTs, or tuna and want a reel that will stand up to punishment season after season, the 11 Plus deserves a place at the top of your gear list.

Tight lines and screaming reels—the Iconic 11 Plus is built to deliver both.