The year 2020 is unlikely to be forgotten, for most of us we’ll remember the ravages of the global pandemic. But for Chris Miles and his partner, Vicki Haines, this was the year they decided to take the plunge and buy the J.W. Young and Sons brand.

Chris and Vicki had a goal: to maintain and grow the great British heritage of J.W. Young reels and supply the finest, handcrafted centrepin fishing reels in the world. Chris and Vicki are the custodians of this ethos: 130+ years of hand built excellence that has earned the brand its place in the history of British fishing. Buying and owning a Youngs reel, is buying into this rich angling heritage, that certain something that is sadly missing in mass produced reels.

Chris has been involved in the fishing industry for nearly 30 years, starting when he was 17, he worked under the supervision of two of the finest reel makers, Jim Young, grandson of the founder, James William Young, and Gary Mills. Chris, a master reel maker knows the importance of every part of the rigorous design, manufacture, assembly and testing process. He builds, inspects and signs off every reel that comes out of the factory, every reel is unique with its very own story.

J.W. Youngs reels, are built to last, providing many years of untroubled angling service, indeed many of the earlier models are not only sought after as collectibles, but also as some of the finest reels still in service to this day. Individually serial numbered with their own certificate of authenticity, each reel is now presented in its very own British handmade padded pouch, ensuring the hand-polished finish retains its beautiful lustre. 

Although Jim Young is no longer actively involved in the business, his opinion is still highly valued, Chris and Vicki often tapping into his lifetime experience of reel making. “We like to maintain the same level of workmanship on the reels we make today as that of Jim Young himself,” says Chris. “The value of his 60 plus years of reel making experience just can’t be bought, it’s probably unique. Jim is still an important cog in the machinery of the brand and Jim always receives one of the first reels in each model range to add to his personal collection.”

Although the reels are predominantly sold in the UK, anglers around the world are beginning to appreciate the delights of centrepin fishing with growing demand throughout Europe, North America, and Asia. 

Initially focussed on making centrepin reels, widely regarded for the precise and immediate control that users prefer, there are plans to build some new limited edition fly reels that will appeal to the most discerning of fly anglers.

Chris comments: “True ’pin reels offer a great fishing experience right out of the box, there’s no better feeling than trotting a float down a streamy river for roach, dace, chub or grayling. In fact, the experience and performance of the reel just gets better and better through regular use. It’s one of the many reasons why vintage reels are so sought after today.” Says Chris.