Echo Ion Reel Review
The world of fly fishing gear is filled with an enormous amount of tradeoffs. Some of those include trading off performance in one area for better performance in another, while others are about trading off different features for price. For this Echo Ion Review, we’re going to take a look at a more affordable reel option and see what features and value we get for the money.
The Echo Ion Background
Echo fly fishing was started by champion fly caster Tim Rajeff in 2001 and has since been creating some solid fly fishing products at a very affordable price. The fact that they were started by a competition fly caster seems to mirror the design philosophy of their products.
For instance, they seem to focus primarily on providing value and functionality and less on design and branding.
While other companies may spend time and effort with elaborate laser engraved designs that grossly inflate the price of their reels, Echo eschews that approach for a spartan aesthetic that delivers the goods that every-day fly fishermen are searching for.
The rod is specifically designed for the angler on a budget who is looking for features and not worried about looks.
Echo Ion Specs:
Line Weight: Six models:
- 2 | 3 weight
- 4 | 5 weight
- 6 | 7 weight
- 7 | 9 weight
- 8 | 10 weight
- 10 | 12 weight
Model Reviewed: 6|7 and 10|12 weight
Arbor Size: 2.9”, 3.4”, 3.7”, 3.9”, 3.9”, 4.7”
Weight: 4.8 oz, 5.3 oz, 5.5 oz, 7.9 oz, 8.3 oz, 9.3 oz
Color(s): Black
Drag System: Sealed disk drag
Echo Ion Reel Review – Features
1. Durable solid alloy construction
2. Large arbor
3. Lightweight, hybrid design balances with lighter rods
4. Maintenance-free Rulon disc drag with low start-up resistance
5. Backlash-free, instant drag reaction from one-way roller clutch bearing
6. Positive position click drag knob
Echo Ion Reel Models
2 | 3 Weight
4 | 5 Weight
6| 7 Weight
7| 9 Weight
8| 10 Weight
10| 12 Weight
Echo Ion Reel Review – Our take
Composition
The Echo Ion Reel is made from a durable aluminum alloy. It’s made with a hybrid process whereby the reel is die cast from a mold, and then further machined to finish. This more than likely saves money on manufacturing since die casting is a more efficient process.
It uses a sealed disc drag system that is maintenance free, and is suitable for saltwater use as long as proper cleaning and maintenance is observed. The reel also boasts a large arbor design to maximize the amount of line you’re able to take up quickly when fighting fish.
While sturdy design is a plus, sometimes it’s a tradeoff with weight. However the weight for most of the models are comparable with many reels that are double or triple the price.
This is especially true when using the heavier weight models. It’s good to know that a value priced reel isn’t going to wear out your arm more than an expensive one.
Performance
For the purpose of the Echo Ion review, we tested the 6/7 and the 10/12 models in both saltwater and freshwater. The 6/7 model was used primarily for streamer fishing for trout and bass, and the 10/12 was used in saltwater and freshwater scenarios going for King Salmon, Striper, and Redfish.
While the durability and the weight of the reel definitely stack up to the competitors, one things to note is that the drag setting affects line going both in and out. So as you tighten your drag, the reeling becomes more difficult.
And this is a big difference between this reel and higher priced ones. The ease at which you reel in line should not be affected by how tight the drag is set. This wasn’t a huge issue on the smaller reel, but it was definitely felt on the 10/12 reel where our drag was tighter for the larger fish.
[NOTE – After initially publishing this review I reached out to Echo directly because this seemed odd and I wanted to be fair to them. They said their current Ion reels in stock do not exhibit this behavior and suggested a thorough cleaning of my reels. After pulling apart and cleaning both the 6/7 and the 10/12 that I own, the behavior still persists. I have owned these two reels for about 4 years so the only explanation I can think of is that it’s a result of natural wear and tear on the drag system.]
Looks
When designing the reel, it’s clear that they maximized the sturdiness and durability and made a decision not to put a giant amount of resources into the looks. The aluminum reel comes in only black, and does not feature any elaborate designs other than the company logo, the model, and the weight.
The handle is made of black plastic to match the reel. It’s also worth noting that the reel comes with a cloth bag in lieu of the usual velco reel pouch. But for someone who is looking for functionality and doesn’t care about looks, this may be the right fit.
Value
These reels retail in the sub-$200 range so the value is all about the tradeoffs. The ruggedness of the design, the large arbor, and the sealed disc drag system make this a very useful tool. The reel action could be better, and the design elements could definitely be improved, but that would most likely require a higher price.
Overall
This reel is probably the most useful for someone who is concerned with price, who doesn’t care about looks, and yet still wants functionality. Because of the way that the ease of reeling is tied to the drag setting, I would not recommend this for the heavier weights. But for someone catching trout and bass at their local ponds and rivers, this fits a nice niche as a great value priced reel.
Echo Ion Reel Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
√Great price
√Lightweight, yet durable design
√Large arbor
√Sturdy yet lightweight design for larger models
! Drag setting affects ease of reeling in line
! No-frills design
Echo Ion Reel Review – Ranking
Looks
Composition
Performance
Value
No-frills design in a single solid black color
Lightweight, durable aluminum allow and larger arbor
Ease of reeling tied to drag setting
Great price considering the included features
6 / 10
7 / 10
6.5 / 10
8 / 10
Overall Ranking
6.875 / 10
Echo Ion Deals
Amazon Product Listing
Accessories: Rod and Fly Line
Echo Carbon XL Fly Rod
Scientific Anglers Air Cel Floating Lines
Echo Ion Reel Starter Pack
If you’ve decided to pick up the Echo Ion Reel, or found another reel that suits your needs, there are some bare essentials you’re going to need to get read yot hit the water. Check out some of our suggestions below:
- Rod – You’ll need a fly rod that complements the reel. For this we suggest the Echo Carbon XL Fly Rod.
- Fly Line – For fly line we suggest Rio Products Mainstream Trout Freshwater Fly Line
- Waders and Boots – If you plan on wading into a stream, we suggest Redington Sonic-Pro HD Waders and Korkers Wading Boots.
- Wading Pack – We also recommend a good wading pack like the Simms Freestone Chest Pack to carry your flies, hemostats, tippet, and other accessories
- Flies – Fill your fly box with this collection of Premium Flies from Venture Fly Co.
Echo Ion Reel Accessories
Air-Lock Fly Fishing Strike Indicator 6 Pack
Fly Fishing Box Two-Sided Waterproof Lightweight Fly Box Easy Grip Transparent Lid Fly Fishing Lures Box Multiple Sizes
Fly Fishing Tools Kit and Accessories Combo Kits, Fishing Quick Nail Knot Tying Tool, Hook Remover Forceps and Pliers, Stainless Steel Salmon and Trout Multiple Fishing Set Gear Tool Assortment
