This limited edition reel has been produced to commemorate the life of the late James Leighton Hardy, for whom the JLH reel was named.

The JLH Reel: The JLH reel was introduced in 1991, the year before Jim retired and was a piece of classic design that reflected the exacting standards of its namesake.

The original range comprised six reels, ranging from a diminutive 2 7/8” trout model to a mighty 4” salmon reel and it was one of the first reels that Hardy manufactured from bar-stock alloy, which made it possible to built light, but incredibly strong components which were perfectly matched to carbon fibre rods.

The 1991 reel was the natural successor to the Lightweight range, built since 1936, and it brought the concept up-to-date with an exposed rim, optional left or right-hand wind, and a reversible nickel-silver line guard. The range was so popular that it was updated several times, the most significant modifications being the introduction of a powerful disc drag in 2000 and a large arbour range in 2003.

The JLH Click-Check: The click-check can be adjusted by simply turning the regulator button on the face of the frame: clockwise to increase the check; anti-clockwise to decrease the check. When the reel is not in use, the check should be turned to the minimum setting.

• Limited edition of just 85 numbered reels
• Based on James Leighton Hardy’s original ‘JLH’ (#7) design
• Wide ranging click check system
• Easily converted from left-hand to right-hand wind
• Unique commemorative engraving
• Wooden handle
• Stunning ‘Rose Gold’ finish
• Supplied in a Hardy Bros. block leather horseshoe reel case

Extreme Diameter: 88mm

Weight (g/oz): 125g / 4.4oz

Capacity (m): DT7+100m 20lb Dacron

Jim Hardy: James Hardy was the last member of the Hardy dynasty to work for the company that his grandfather had founded. Born in Alnwick in 1927, Jim started fishing at the age of 7 and became a very successful angler, winning no less than 38 British and world casting championship titles.

After an apprenticeship at Vickers-Armstrong, he joined the company in the early 1950’s and was appointed works director in 1959, leading the firm’s search to develop new materials – a quest which resulted in Hardy’s pioneering range of carbon fibre rods. Jim was also responsible for the reel development and introduced one of the firm’s most famous products, the Marquis range, in 1970.

After the takeover by the Harris and Sheldon Group, he took on the role of Marketing Manager and toured the world promoting Hardy products, during a period in which the company won numerous design awards. He retired in 1992 and remained a consultant for the Company until his death.

“My sister Rona and I were fortunate to have our father teach us to fish and, from him we learnt to enjoy the sport in all its glory. It is my hope that you will also have as much pleasure from your purchase of this reel as Rona and I have had in fishing with our father”. – Roy Leighton Hardy