Redington Behemoth Fly Reel: Power Meets Affordability in Modern Fly Fishing
Redington Behemoth Fly Reel: Power Meets Affordability in Modern Fly Fishing
Introduction
In the world of fly fishing, premium gear often comes with a premium price tag. But what if you could harness powerful drag, dependable construction, and sleek design without emptying your wallet? Enter the Redington Behemoth Fly Reel—a reel that has become synonymous with performance at an unbeatable price. Designed to handle everything from freshwater beasts to aggressive saltwater species, the Behemoth delivers on its bold name.
In this article, we’ll explore the features, strengths, and shortcomings of the Behemoth in detail. Whether you're a beginner stepping into the world of fly fishing or a seasoned angler seeking a budget-friendly backup, the Behemoth might just be the reel that balances cost and capability.
About Redington
Redington is a name trusted by anglers who value functionality and affordability. As part of the Far Bank Enterprises family (alongside Sage and Rio), Redington benefits from shared innovation while maintaining a focus on gear that's accessible to a broader range of fishermen. With the Behemoth, Redington sought to challenge the notion that great reels must be expensive—and largely succeeded.
First Impressions and Design
Unique Die-Cast Construction
The Behemoth immediately stands out because of its die-cast construction, which differs from the CNC-machined aluminum used in more expensive reels. Die-casting involves pouring molten metal into molds, which allows for complex shapes and aggressive porting that would be difficult and costly to machine.
While die-cast reels are generally not as strong as machined ones, Redington has engineered the Behemoth with thick walls and structural supports that give it uncommon toughness for the price range.
Oversized Drag Knob
The Behemoth features a large, knurled drag knob that’s easy to adjust, even with wet hands or gloves. This oversized control allows quick, tactile adjustments during a fight—especially useful when a fish makes an unexpected run.
Aesthetics
The Behemoth doesn’t shy away from bold styling. It’s available in several colors—Black, Gunmetal, Desert, Hunter Orange, and O.D. Green—that cater to both traditionalists and those who prefer a modern flair. Its skeletonized frame and ported spool give it a rugged, futuristic look, and its design is often mistaken for a higher-end reel.
Sizing and Versatility
The Redington Behemoth is available in multiple sizes:
- 4/5 – Ideal for trout and small bass
- 5/6 – Perfect for larger trout and light steelhead
- 7/8 – Suited for steelhead, salmon, and light saltwater
- 9/10 – Great for pike, musky, and medium saltwater species
- 11/12 – Made for big game like tarpon and offshore predators
These size options cover nearly every angling application, making the Behemoth series one of the most versatile lineups in the budget reel market.
Drag System: The Star of the Show
Carbon Fiber Drag
The heart of the Behemoth is its carbon fiber drag system, which is one of the strongest in its class. In fact, it boasts up to 30 lbs of drag pressure—more than many reels that cost three to four times as much.
Sealed but Not Fully Waterproof
The drag is not fully sealed, so while it can withstand freshwater, light surf, or the occasional dunk, it's not ideal for heavy saltwater use without careful post-trip maintenance. Regular rinsing and occasional lubrication are recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Smooth Start-Up
Start-up inertia is impressively low for a budget reel, which is critical when protecting light tippet or when a fish takes off unexpectedly. While it’s not as buttery as a top-tier sealed drag, the Behemoth’s carbon system is more than adequate for the vast majority of angling scenarios.
Performance on the Water
Retrieval and Arbor Size
The Behemoth sports a large arbor design that allows for fast line retrieval and reduced line memory. This comes in handy during long fights or when quickly reeling in slack. The spool capacity is also generous, holding ample backing for long-running fish.
Ergonomics
The handle is comfortably contoured and provides a good grip even when wet. The large drag knob, mentioned earlier, further improves user experience, allowing on-the-fly tension tweaks during fights.
Weight
Here’s where the Behemoth’s construction reveals some trade-offs: it’s heavier than most machined aluminum reels. For example, the 7/8 size weighs about 8.5 oz, which can make it feel a bit unbalanced on lightweight rods. That said, on heavier rods or in situations where durability matters more than weight—like pike or saltwater setups—it’s a fair trade-off.
Durability and Build Quality
Strength
The die-cast frame, while not bombproof, holds up surprisingly well. It can take a few knocks, though it’s more prone to cracking if dropped from height compared to machined reels. For anglers who are careful with their gear—or for those using the reel as a backup—the Behemoth performs admirably.
Maintenance
Since it’s not a sealed reel, the Behemoth does require more diligence in saltwater environments. A simple rinse and occasional lube after each trip will go a long way in preserving its lifespan.
Value and Pricing
With a retail price between $130–$140 USD, the Behemoth is one of the best values in fly fishing. It’s often recommended as:
- A first reel for new anglers
- A backup reel for seasoned pros
- A budget-friendly saltwater reel (with care)
- A go-to for high-risk situations (jungle, flats, boats)
You’d be hard-pressed to find another reel that offers as much drag strength, visual appeal, and functionality at this price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally powerful drag (up to 30 lbs)
- Aggressive, attractive design
- Wide range of sizes for different species
- Excellent value for money
- Easy-to-use drag knob
Cons:
- Heavier than machined reels
- Not fully sealed—requires maintenance
- Die-cast frame is less durable than machined alternatives
Ideal Use Cases
The Redington Behemoth shines in many fishing scenarios:
- Freshwater predator fishing (pike, musky)
- Steelhead and salmon runs
- Budget saltwater trips (redfish, snook, smaller tarpon)
- Travel/back-up reels
- Guides outfitting clients with dependable gear
If you’re planning to fight big fish without big costs—or need a reliable workhorse reel—you'll be hard-pressed to find better at this price.
Comparison With Competitors
Behemoth vs. Echo Bravo
The Echo Bravo also features a carbon drag system and interchangeable cassette spools, which is great for versatility. However, the Behemoth boasts a stronger drag and more refined design. The Bravo may be better for beginners who change lines often, but Behemoth wins on power and aesthetics.
Behemoth vs. Piscifun Platte Pro
The Piscifun Platte Pro is another budget reel with a sealed drag and machined construction. While it's more saltwater-friendly out of the box, it lacks the drag strength of the Behemoth. Choose the Behemoth for power; choose the Platte Pro for corrosion resistance.
Behemoth vs. Orvis Clearwater
The Clearwater reel is slightly lighter and more traditional in design, with a smoother (but weaker) drag system. The Behemoth is a better choice for larger species, while the Clearwater is a better fit for classic trout fishing.
Final Verdict
The Redington Behemoth Fly Reel is a standout in the fly fishing world—not because it’s perfect, but because it redefines what’s possible at an entry-level price. With a drag system powerful enough to stop a freight train, robust construction, and eye-catching aesthetics, the Behemoth is not just a great “starter reel”—it’s a legitimate workhorse for serious fishing.
While it has its flaws—heft and lack of a sealed drag—the value it offers is undeniable. It’s ideal for anglers who prioritize function and strength, who are willing to care for their gear, and who understand that greatness doesn’t always come with a four-figure price tag.
Tough. Affordable. Unapologetically powerful—the Redington Behemoth earns its name with every pull of the drag.