The Redington Behemoth Fly Fishing Reel is a popular choice among anglers for its durability, smooth drag system, and versatility in both freshwater and light saltwater conditions. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and performance:
Key Features:
1. Robust Construction
– Made from a durable die-cast aluminum frame and spool, ensuring longevity.
– Corrosion-resistant (anodized finish), making it suitable for saltwater use.
2. High-Capacity Arbor
– Large arbor design for faster line retrieval and reduced line memory.
– Holds plenty of backing, ideal for big fish or long runs.
3. Smooth Drag System
– Features a sealed carbon disc drag with a wide range of adjustment.
– Smooth, consistent pressure to handle hard-fighting fish (like bass, pike, or even light saltwater species).
4. Versatile Use
– Designed for 5-12 weight lines, making it suitable for:
– Freshwater (trout, bass, pike)
– Light saltwater (redfish, bonefish, smaller tarpon)
5. Easy Spool Change & Left/Right Retrieve
– Tool-less spool interchange for quick line changes.
– Convertible between left and right-hand retrieve.
6. Weight & Balance
– Slightly heavier than premium reels but balances well with mid-to-heavy rods.
Pros:
✔ Excellent drag performance for the price
✔ Durable and corrosion-resistant
✔ Large arbor for quick line pickup
✔ Good value for money (mid-range pricing)
Cons:
✖ Heavier than some high-end reels (e.g., Lamson, Nautilus)
✖ Drag knob can be stiff when new (improves with use)
Best For:
– Anglers needing a reliable, budget-friendly reel for big freshwater fish (bass, pike, steelhead) or light saltwater.
– Those who prioritize drag smoothness and durability over ultra-lightweight design.
Alternatives to Consider:
– Lamson Liquid (lighter, smoother, but less drag range)
– Orvis Hydros SL (higher-end drag, more refined)
– Redington Grande (upgraded version with better sealing)
Final Verdict:
The Behemoth is a workhorse reel—great for anglers who need strong performance without breaking the bank. If you fish aggressively or target larger species, it’s a solid pick. For ultra-light setups or heavy saltwater, consider specialized reels.
Would you like help pairing it with a rod or line?
The Redington Behemoth Fly Fishing Reel is a popular choice among anglers for its durability, versatility, and smooth performance in both freshwater and light saltwater conditions. Here’s a detailed overview of its key features:
Key Features:
1. Durable Construction
– Made from machined aluminum for strength and corrosion resistance.
– Hard-anodized finish for added durability, especially in saltwater.
2. Smooth Drag System
– Features a sealed, carbon fiber drag system with a 20+ lbs of stopping power, ideal for battling large fish like salmon, steelhead, or bass.
– Instant anti-reverse prevents handle backplay.
3. Large Arbor Design
– Allows for faster line retrieval and reduces line memory.
– Holds plenty of backing for big fish.
4. Versatility
– Suitable for freshwater (trout, bass, pike) and light saltwater (redfish, bonefish, striped bass).
– Available in sizes 3/4 to 9/10, accommodating a wide range of fly line weights.
5. Easy Maintenance
– Tool-free spool removal for quick line changes.
– Sealed drag keeps out dirt and water.
6. Weight & Balance
– Designed to balance well with mid-to-large fly rods (5wt and up).
Pros & Cons:
✅ Pros:
– Excellent drag performance for the price.
– Lightweight yet strong construction.
– Good value compared to premium brands like Lamson or Nautilus.
❌ Cons:
– Some anglers prefer a more refined drag system for extreme saltwater use.
– Not as sleek as high-end reels, but still very functional.
Best Uses:
– Freshwater: Large trout, bass, pike, steelhead.
– Saltwater: Redfish, striped bass, bonefish (though not for heavy-duty offshore species).
Price Range:
– Typically $150–$200, making it a great mid-range option.
Final Verdict:
The Redington Behemoth is a reliable, high-performance reel for anglers who need strong drag and durability without breaking the bank. It’s especially well-suited for larger freshwater species and light saltwater fishing.
Would you like recommendations for matching fly rods or lines?