In the world of British Columbia sportfishing, very few names carry the weight, respect, and history of Trophy XL and Dragonfly. For decades, these brands have been a backbone of reliable angling in our demanding waters.

Recently, the global corporate fishing landscape has seen significant change, leading some to wonder about the future of these local institutions. Today, we are proud to announce the definitive good news: Trophy XL and Dragonfly aren’t just here to stay—they are entering a strong new chapter.

Effective immediately, Salty Outdoors (the recognized home of Reef rods and reels) is now the exclusive distributor of both the Trophy XL and Dragonfly brands, guaranteeing their availability for 2026 and beyond. This homecoming, orchestrated by veteran BC fishing industry leader Brent McCallum, ensures that the quality, design, and reliable warranty service that anglers have trusted for 50 years remains unbroken.

Here is why these brands are legends in our province, and what you can expect next.

Trophy XL Fishing: A BC Legacy Since 1954

The Trophy XL story began in BC in 1954, pioneered by the legendary team at Redl Sports. At that time, the rod options available to BC anglers (especially float fishermen) were severely limited to imports that often didn’t handle local conditions. Salty Outdoors, recognizing the brand, acquired the company in 1970.

Trophy XL changed everything. Designed by seasoned local river and ocean fishermen, for BC, these rods quickly set the standard. The history is rich.

From Fiberglass Blanks to the Graphite Revolution

• The Early Days: The original rods were built in Canada, utilizing robust fiberglass blanks, premium cork sourced directly from Portugal, and superior North American guides.
• Innovators on the Water: As the fishery evolved, so did Trophy XL. They expanded into saltwater live bait mooching and cut plug rods, and were among the first to introduce dedicated downrigger rods once downriggers were legalized in the public fishery.
• The Graphite Revolution: Trophy XL was on the cutting edge of the move to graphite, creating blanks that successfully combined dramatically lighter weights with the incredible durability required to fight BC salmon and steelhead.

Today, the lineup covers everything from delicate trout spin rods to heavy-duty saltwater and river options, all with a pedigree of quality components.

Dragonfly Fly Fishing: High-Performance Rods and Reels

In the early 1990’s, Redl recognized the need for a comprehensive fly-fishing program designed specifically for the Pacific Northwest, and Dragonfly was born.

For decades, the Dragonfly program provided everything a fly angler needed, from float tubes and waders to the rods and reels. Today, Dragonfly focuses its vast experience specifically on high-performance rods and reels.

• Expertly Designed: Every single fly rod in the Dragonfly lineup has been meticulously crafted by the rod designers on staff.
• A Rod for Every Pursuit: The lineup offers exceptional range and quality components. Whether it’s an everyday 5-weight, a 10’ 4-piece travel rod, or a specialized option, Dragonfly offers the perfect tool at the perfect value.

Trophy XL and Dragonfly Warranty & Local BC Repair Service

A key component of this good news is the continued commitment to customer service. Salty Outdoors understands that anglers break things. If an “angler mishap” ever occurs with either a Trophy XL or Dragonfly product, spare sections and service remain available through their local, BC-based service and warranty department.

Salty Outdoors will continue the legends of Trophy XL and Dragonfly. Anglers should look for both brands to be available, as usual, at your favourite tackle store starting in May.

Salty Outdoors: The New Home of Trophy XL and Dragonfly

Salty Outdoors is led by industry veteran Brent McCallum, a name familiar to many who have followed the BC tackle distribution world for decades. McCallum was the owner who sold Redl Sports (and the Trophy XL and Dragonfly brands) to Maurice Sporting Goods back in 2011.

Following the recent bankruptcy and liquidation of Big Rock Sports, McCallum successfully re-acquired these beloved brands, effectively bringing them “home” to a stable, dedicated, BC-based operation. Under his leadership at Salty Outdoors, these heritage brands have found the stability and future they deserve.

Island Fisherman Magazine Verdict: This is fantastic news for BC. Knowing that they are secure, locally supported, and managed by a veteran who truly understands their value to BC anglers ensures we will continue to see these legends on the water for years to come.

Ready to Gear Up for the 2026 Season?

Whether you are a lifelong fan of Trophy XL or looking to upgrade your fly fishing kit with Dragonfly, the legends are back and better than ever.

• For Anglers: Look for the full lineup of rods and reels at your favourite local BC tackle store starting in May.

• For Retailers: Ensure your shop is stocked for the upcoming season by securing your inventory now.

• For Service & Support: Rest easy knowing your gear is backed by a dedicated BC-based warranty department right here in the Pacific Northwest.

Get in Touch with Salty Outdoors

Have questions about specific rod specs, upcoming releases, or dealer inquiries? Contact Brent McCallum and the team directly:

📧 Email: brent@saltyoutdoors.ca 📍 Proudly BC-Owned and Operated

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