Redington Behemoth Review
Today we are examining probably the most ubiquitous Redington reel out there to see how it measures up. So for this Redington Behemoth review, we’ll take a look at its makeup, performance, and aesthetics to find out what makes this things tick.
As the name suggests, this reel is designed for larger rigs and even bigger fish. So is this the type of reel you’d like to add to your collection? Let’s dive in…
The Redington Behemoth Background
Redington came to us in the early 90s from the Pacific Northwest and have been steadily providing solid fly fishing gear at prices that don’t require you to pawn your grandma’s jewelry. Although the company is based in the US, most of the manufacturing is done overseas – a fact which matters to some people, and not at all to others.
When the Behemoth was released, the emphasis on its design was on providing a larger, beefier option with extra strong drag that would be capable of fighting even the largest fish.
The smallest weight available is 4 | 5, and ranges up in size all the way to 11 | 12. It’s also worth noting that in addition to a 4|5 model, there’s also a 5|6 model. Personally I would use the 4|5 model for nymphing and dry fly fishing for trout, and the 5|6 model on a 6 weight. That would still allow for dry and nymph fishing, but add some heft for streamers as well.
Behemoth Specs:
Line Weight: Six models:
- 4 | 5 weight
- 5 | 6 weight
- 7 | 8 weight
- 9 | 10 weight
- 11 | 12 weight
Model Reviewed: 5|6
Arbor Size: 3.4″, 3.6″, 4″, 4.4″, 4.7″
Weight: 5.2 oz, 5.7 oz, 7.5 oz, 10.8 oz, 11.4 oz
Color(s): Black with red accents, Gunmetal, OD Green, and Bronze
Drag System: Unsealed disk drag
Redington Behemoth Reel Review: Features
1. Die cast construction
2. Extra strong carbon fiber disc drag – up to 30 lbs.
3. Large Arbor design
4. Deep V spool for increased backing capacity
5. Oversized drag knob
6. Soft touch ergonomic handle
Redington Behemoth Reel Models
4 | 5 Weight
5 | 6 Weight
7| 8 Weight
9| 10 Weight
11| 12 Weight
Redington Behemoth 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.
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.
Redington Behemoth Reel Pros and Cons
Pros
√Heavy duty disc drag
√Large arbor design with V spool
√Ergonomic handles
√Affordable
Cons
! Unsealed drag
Redington Behemoth Reel Review – Ranking
Looks
Composition
Performance
Value
Good color options with engraved model and weight
Die cast construction, heavy duty disc drag system, unsealed
Smooth action on the reel, oversize drag adjustment knob
Great price for the feature set. A true reel for the everyman angler
7.5 / 10
6.5 / 10
7.5 / 10
8.5 / 10
Overall Ranking
7.5 / 10
Redington Behemoth Deals
Amazon Product Listing
Trident Product Listing
Ed’s Fly Shop Product Listing
Accessories: Rod and Fly Line
Redington Predator Fly Rod
AIRFLO Kelly Galloup Streamer Max Long WF Fly Line
Redington Behemoth Reel Starter Pack
If you’ve decided to pick up the Redington Behemoth 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 Redington Predator Fly Rod.
- Fly Line – For fly line we suggest AIRFLO Kelly Galloup Streamer Max Long WF 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 Orvis Waterproof Hip 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.
Redington Behemoth 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
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Orvis Men’s Ultralight Storm Jacket
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