There are many places where you can find your collection. Here are two best places that I personally like.

• Internet. Yes this is the best choice. The beauty of the internet, you can buy the item regardless of your physical location. Just sit tight and do the surfing. So far my favorite place still ebay and of course at Vintage Fishing Reels.  To help you out, I've categorized all the famous reels and other fishing items on the sidebar menu. Just click on the manufacturer's name. I've also identified unique and hard to find items in Selection, right on the front page. These items are handpicked manually and update regularly.
• Yard sale/garage sale can be interesting to go. But you need to have the time to go through all the junks. But honestly, its fun going through all the junks. It can be an interesting place for finding "surprises" at a very good price. The good part of yard sale, you can evaluate the item right in front of you. Not forgetting the possibility of asking for a discount price.

other than the above places you do need extra effort in order to find what you are looking for.