Hey folks, I'm the guy that wrote the book The Reelsmith's Primer that just came out last week. My mission is to show anglers that it is possible to build functional and attractive fly reels without needing a machine shop full of equipment! In fact, my book only requires an electric drill and a few hand tools. The photo that dudley posted of his buddy's reel appears in my book - the builder was one of my early reelsmiths. I've created a presentation that shows the entire process start to finish, a complete tool list, and a complete materials list. A skilled craftsman can build this reel using this information and locally (or mail ordered) materials. We've also created The Reelsmithing Forum where there are lots of reelsmiths sharing information, designs and other stuff. Check it out! Building your own reel is very possible.

cheers,
Michael aka EclecticGuy