
This custom fishing reel project started with a blank anodized aluminum reel and a simple request to give it a fish scale finish.
The customer supplied the reel as a gift project, and the large flat top surface gave us a great area to work with. Instead of adding a name or logo, the goal was to create a custom engraved pattern that felt connected to the piece itself.

For the design, Bastion Engraving created a fish scale pattern sized specifically for the round top of the reel. The existing brand name was already on the reel, so the engraving had to be planned around it rather than placed over it.
That made layout one of the most important parts of the project. The pattern needed to stay centred, fit within the flat circular engraving area, and leave the branding clean and readable.
Using laser engraving, we added the fish scale finish across the top surface of the anodized aluminum reel. The final result gives the reel a more custom, gift-worthy look while keeping the original branding intact.
Bastion Engraving works on custom engraving projects for gifts, outdoor gear, metal items, drinkware, and one-of-a-kind pieces.
For projects like this fishing reel, the goal is to make the engraving feel like it belongs on the item. Whether it’s a pattern, logo, name, or custom detail, our Nanaimo engraving team can help create a clean, lasting finish on suitable materials and surfaces.