Redington Fly Reels: A Comprehensive Buyers Guide
Redington Fly Reels: A Comprehensive Buyers Guide
In the world of fly fishing, gear selection is as much about feel and performance as it is about function. Among the well-respected names in fly fishing, Redington stands out for delivering high-quality fly reels that balance performance, durability, and affordability. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first reel or a seasoned angler seeking a rugged companion for your next backcountry trip, Redington likely has a reel tailored to your needs.
This in-depth article explores the Redington brand, breaks down its fly reel offerings, and helps anglers of all levels understand what makes Redington reels a strong choice in today’s competitive market.
1. The Redington Brand: A Brief History
Founded in the early 1990s in the Pacific Northwest, Redington entered the fly fishing scene with a mission: create reliable, affordable, and innovative gear for everyday anglers. The company quickly became known for fly rods and reels that perform well without commanding a premium price tag.
In 2003, Redington was acquired by Far Bank Enterprises, which also owns Sage and RIO Products. This relationship gave Redington access to advanced design technologies while still focusing on budget-friendly pricing. Redington gear is now designed in Washington state and tested in real-world fishing environments ranging from alpine streams to saltwater flats.
2. Philosophy Behind Redington Reels
Redington designs its reels with three core principles:
- Affordability: The reels are priced for accessibility without sacrificing quality.
- Durability: Every product is built for the rigors of freshwater and saltwater fishing.
- Simplicity and Style: The minimalist yet functional design approach makes Redington reels easy to use and visually appealing.
3. Redington Fly Reel Lineup Overview
Redington offers several fly reel models, each tailored to specific fishing conditions and skill levels. Below is an overview of their current and most popular reel lines:
| Model | Material | Drag System | Water Compatibility | Best For |
| ------------ | ----------------| ----------------- | ----------- -----------| ---------------- |
| Behemoth | Die-cast AL | Carbon fiber | Fresh/saltwater | Big game/heavy-duty |
| Rise | CNC aluminum | Carbon fiber | Fresh & saltwater | All-purpose |
| Run | Die-cast AL | Carbon fiber | Fresh & saltwater | Lightweight, value |
| ZERO | Die-cast AL | Click-pawl (no drag) | Freshwater | Small stream, ultralight |
| Tilt | CNC Aluminum | Disc drag | Euro nymphing | Competition & tactical nymphing |
Let’s look at these in more detail.
4. Spotlight on Key Redington Fly Reels
a. Redington Behemoth
The Behemoth is perhaps the most recognizable reel in the Redington lineup. It boasts one of the most powerful drag systems in its class and is built for taming large fish in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Key Features:
- Carbon fiber drag system with massive stopping power
- Large arbor for quick line pickup
- Bold, industrial design
- Die-cast aluminum frame
Performance Review:
The Behemoth has earned praise for its drag strength, rivaling reels two to three times its price. It's a favorite among anglers targeting salmon, steelhead, pike, tarpon, redfish, and permit. While it’s heavier than machined reels, its performance-to-price ratio is unbeatable.
Sizes Available: 4/5 to 11/12
Best For: Big game species, saltwater, budget-conscious anglers
b. Redington Rise
The Rise reel is a step up in refinement, featuring a fully machined frame and smooth, sealed carbon drag. It’s designed for serious freshwater and saltwater anglers who want a lightweight yet durable reel.
Key Features:
- Fully machined 6061-T6 aluminum
- Lightweight large-arbor design
- Sealed carbon drag
- Ergonomic handle and quick-release spool
Performance Review:
With a premium feel and quiet, controlled drag, the Rise is ideal for trout, bass, and light saltwater species like bonefish or snook. It's well-balanced, matches perfectly with Redington and Sage rods, and looks as good as it performs.
Sizes Available: 3/4 to 9/10
Best For: Versatile freshwater and light saltwater anglers
c. Redington Run
The Run is an excellent mid-tier reel, combining a die-cast frame with a machined finish and carbon fiber drag. It’s designed for lightness and affordability, offering many of the Rise's benefits at a lower cost.
Key Features:
- Lightweight die-cast aluminum
- Carbon fiber drag
- Rounded reel foot for leader protection
- Modern aesthetics
Performance Review:
Though not as rugged as fully machined reels, the Run is ideal for light saltwater use and general freshwater fly fishing. It’s a great choice for anglers who want lightweight gear without spending a fortune.
Sizes Available: 3/4 to 7/8
Best For: Everyday trout and bass anglers, light travel setups
d. Redington ZERO
For ultralight anglers, the ZERO is a gem. It uses a classic click-pawl drag system, making it exceptionally light and responsive.
Key Features:
- Click-pawl drag for simplicity
- Ultralight die-cast frame
- Bold porting and modern design
- Large arbor
Performance Review:
Ideal for small stream fishing, the ZERO gives you maximum feel and feedback when fighting fish. It's perfect for anglers who want a no-frills reel to match with a 2- to 4-weight rod.
Sizes Available: 2/3 and 4/5
Best For: Brook trout, panfish, creek fishing, dry fly enthusiasts
e. Redington Tilt Euro Nymph Reel
Designed for the rising popularity of Euro nymphing, the Tilt reel includes specialized features for tight-line presentations and ultra-sensitive fishing.
Key Features:
- Full-frame design for thin Euro lines
- Adjustable drag knob for tension control
- Machined construction
- Counterweights for balance
Performance Review:
Anglers appreciate the Tilt’s line management and precise drag, crucial for subtle Euro techniques. Its design prevents line slippage between the spool and frame—common with regular reels used for Euro nymphing.
Sizes Available: One size (designed for 2–5 wt rods)
Best For: Tactical nymphers, competition fly anglers
5. Build Quality and Technology
Redington reels blend traditional construction with modern materials:
- Machined aluminum (in higher-end models like Rise and Tilt) ensures longevity and tight tolerances.
- Die-cast aluminum (used in Behemoth, Run, and ZERO) allows cost-effective production while maintaining rigidity.
- Carbon fiber drag systems in most models provide smooth resistance with little maintenance.
- Click-pawl mechanisms in reels like ZERO cater to anglers who value tradition and lightness.
Despite being more budget-friendly than premium brands, Redington’s reels often include features found in higher-end options—sealed drag systems, ergonomic spools, and large arbor designs.
6. Freshwater vs. Saltwater Performance
While all Redington reels (except the ZERO) are built for both freshwater and saltwater, here's how they perform:
- Freshwater Use: Excellent across the board. The Rise and Run balance well on trout rods, while the Behemoth is great for carp, musky, and pike.
- Saltwater Use: The Behemoth and Rise are strong saltwater contenders. With proper rinsing after use, they hold up well to corrosion and offer sufficient drag to control most inshore species.
Anglers should note that machined reels like the Rise and Tilt will withstand long-term saltwater use better than die-cast alternatives.
7. Pros and Cons of Redington Fly Reels
Pros
- Affordable pricing without sacrificing core features
- Smooth, reliable drag systems
- Lightweight options for small stream and nymphing techniques
- Modern aesthetics and practical design
- Versatile sizes and applications across reel models
Cons
- Die-cast models can be less durable than fully machined reels
- Heavier than high-end ultralight competitors
- Limited premium options—Redington focuses more on mid-tier than luxury markets
8. Comparing Redington to Other Brands
| Brand | Redington Strengths | Where Competitors Excel |
| ---------------- | ------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------ |
| Orvis | More affordable, simpler designs | Higher-end machining and finish (Hydros, Mirage) |
| Lamson | Cheaper carbon drag models | Better sealed drag and ultralight options |
| Echo | Wider reel selection | Echo excels in beginner rod/reel combos |
| Sage (sister brand) | Budget alternative to Sage reels | Sage has top-tier, fully sealed reels |
| Piscifun/Maxcatch | More reliable drag, better support | Other brands may offer even cheaper entry-level reels |
9. Tips for Choosing the Right Redington Reel
Here’s a quick decision guide:
- For trout fishing: Go with the Run or Rise.
- For Euro nymphing: Choose the Tilt for its balance and narrow frame.
- For small creeks or ultralight rods: Use the ZERO.
- For saltwater or big game: The Behemoth offers unmatched value.
- If you want premium build without breaking the bank: The Rise is the sweet spot.
10. Final Verdict: Are Redington Reels Worth It?
Absolutely. Redington reels provide excellent value, smart design, and real-world performance that make them stand out in the mid-priced fly fishing gear market. Their focus on accessibility and function makes them ideal for both novice and experienced anglers.
Whether you're targeting alpine trout, casting poppers for bass, or battling reds in the marshes, there's a Redington reel to match your needs. While high-end anglers may still lean toward brands like Abel or Hatch, Redington remains one of the best-performing reel brands for under $250.