Redington Behemoth Fly Reel Review

The word Behemoth by definition: “something of monstrous size, power, or appearance”. This definition perfectly captures the Redington Behemoth fly reel, one might even say Redington chose this name on purpose.  This reel has been one of our top sellers and performers since hitting our shelves some years ago. 

Redington launched this reel to have the strongest drag in its class and well, mission accomplished! These reels have a drag that can stop any big game species that swims on the planet without the big price tag so often associated with a big game fly reel.  In our Redington Behemoth review we will dive into what makes this a great quality fly reel with budget friendly price tag.

Drag System

We couldn’t possibly conduct this review with talking about the drag. The Drag is the big feature of these reels. With up to 30lbs of drag, these reels literally have a top end drag comparable to that of reels that are up to four times as expensive.

 

The heavy-duty carbon fibre drag system not only has big stopping power, but it has a very smooth outgoing drag. This is a very important feature because a jerky, inconsistent drag can lead to frustrations which leads to increasing chances of losing fish, pulling hooks out or possibly breaking tippets. This reel has one of the best drag systems for reels in this price range we have reviewed.

Along with the outstanding drag, the drag knob is very well designed. It’s nice and big and easy to adjust. This may not seem like a big deal to some but add some sweat and sunscreen to your fingers in the heat of battle with a big fish and you’ll appreciate what Redington has done with the drag knob on the Behemoth fly reel. 

While the drag on these reels is spectacular it should be noted that it is not a sealed drag so if being used in saltwater make sure that you soak it in freshwater afterwards, something that should be done with any reel after saltwater use, no matter what.  You should also be mindful of adding some grease to the parts where it may be required. 

The Behemoth has an audible click on the incoming retrieve as well as the outgoing. They aren’t super loud but it is still noticeable. This sound on an interior lake can be a dinner bell for a well-trained Loon, not to worry though because the sound can be eliminated without causing any issues with the reels performance.

Arbor

Next up in our review of the Redington Behemoth is the arbor. It utilizes a unique v-shaped spool design and has a very wide spool which not only has a very cool look but allows room for a large amount of backing which can be very important when chasing big game species like Tarpon or chinook salmon.  The Behemoth spool design also offers a nice fast retrieve, also important when latched onto a big fish that’s charging right at you.

One comment about the wide spool on these reels is to make sure you use your finger to evenly guide the fly line and backing on to the spool as you retrieve it. This will help make sure there’s no issues with line piling up on one side. This is a good habit to get into regardless of what reel you’re using and whether you have a fish on or not as it will add a bit of tension reducing chances of issues with the line or backing tangling or just being wrapped onto too loose and binding into itself when fighting a fish. 

Redington designed the spool to fit on to slotted groves which are on the spool and span out on the main post of the reel. This design adds to the strength of the reel and reduces chances having the spool rub against the frame under the load of a large fish. 

Design

Next in our Redington Behemoth review we will discuss the design. In order to keep the Behemoth in the under $200 CAD price mark these reels are made from die-cast aluminum opposed to being machined aluminum. 

Die-cast reels are manufactured by pouring molten metal into a mould whereas a machined reel is manufactured out of a solid piece of bar stock aluminum.  So, what does this mean?  Well, a die-cast reel is cheaper to produce in mass quantities comparatively to a machined reel. This is one of the reasons why we see a machined reel carry a higher price tag to that of the Behemoth. 

Machined reels do have a leg up in the durability playing field being machined out of one solid piece of aluminum. A machined reel is more durable and more likely to withstand a drop better than a die-cast reel. A drop to a die-cast reel could have catastrophic consequences, so make sure you treat your Behemoth with the respect it deserves and it will provide years and years of reliable service.

Sizes and Colours   

Redington produces the Behemoth in sizes 4/5, 5/6, 7/8, 9/10 and 11/12, no matter where or what you’re fishing for this reel has you covered. 

The Behemoth family colour options have grown over the years and now boasts six different options. These colour options are as follows black, gunmetal, OD green, hunter orange, desert camo and bronze. As with most reels produced today you can purchase spare spools in all sizes and colours. Like all Redington fly reels, spare spools are available. See our Redington Behemoth spare spools.

Manufacturing and Warranty

The Redington Behemoth is manufactured in Korea and many people may not know that Korea is a top-quality manufacturer of high-end reels and rods. People are sometimes shocked to hear names like Sage (reels), Loop and Hardy being thrown into the “made in Korea” arena because the quality is so high. 

The Behemoth boasts a lifetime warranty only elevating this already great valued fly reel even higher. If there is ever a situation that requires a warranty action, we are more than happy to deal with everything for you.

Needless to say, Sea-Run Fly & Tackle gives the Redington Behemoth reel two big thumbs up.  We hope you enjoyed our Redington Behemoth review.