The Ultimate Guide to the Redington Crosswater Fly Reel: A Must-Have for Fly Fishing Enthusiasts
Fly fishing is an art, and having the right gear can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and a memorable catch. Among the essential tools in a fly angler’s arsenal, the Redington Crosswater Fly Reel stands out as a reliable, budget-friendly, and high-performance option. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, this reel delivers smooth drag, durability, and versatility—all at an affordable price.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of Redington Crosswater Fly Reels, how to choose the best one for your needs, our top five recommendations, key buying considerations, and answers to common questions.
—
Types of Redington Crosswater Fly Reels
The Redington Crosswater Fly Reel series is designed to cater to various fly fishing styles and environments. The main categories include:
1. Standard Crosswater Reel – A great all-around choice for freshwater fishing.
2. Crosswater Large Arbor Reel – Offers faster line retrieval and better drag performance for bigger fish.
3. Saltwater-Ready Crosswater Reel – Built with corrosion-resistant materials for coastal and saltwater fishing.
Each type is optimized for specific fishing conditions, so selecting the right one depends on your target species and fishing location.
—
How to Choose the Best Redington Crosswater Fly Reel
Picking the perfect reel involves considering several factors:
– Fishing Environment (freshwater vs. saltwater)
– Fish Species & Size (trout vs. bass vs. saltwater gamefish)
– Reel Weight & Balance (should match your rod for optimal performance)
– Drag System (smooth, adjustable drag is crucial for fighting fish)
– Budget (the Crosswater series is affordable but varies slightly in features)
—
Top 5 Redington Crosswater Fly Reels
1. Redington Crosswater Fly Reel (Standard Model)
Highlights: Affordable, lightweight, and reliable for freshwater fishing.
✅ Pros:
– Smooth disc drag system
– Durable anodized aluminum construction
– Lightweight and well-balanced
❌ Cons:
– Not ideal for heavy saltwater use
Best For: Beginners and trout anglers.
2. Redington Crosswater Large Arbor Fly Reel
Highlights: Faster line retrieval and improved drag.
✅ Pros:
– Large arbor design reduces line memory
– Stronger drag for bigger fish
– Lightweight yet sturdy
❌ Cons:
– Slightly more expensive than the standard model
Best For: Anglers targeting bass, pike, and larger freshwater species.
3. Redington Crosswater Saltwater Fly Reel
Highlights: Corrosion-resistant for coastal fishing.
✅ Pros:
– Sealed drag system to prevent saltwater damage
– High-capacity spool for backing
– Durable construction
❌ Cons:
– Heavier than freshwater models
Best For: Saltwater fly fishers chasing redfish, bonefish, and striped bass.
4. Redington Crosswater Fly Reel Combo (Rod + Reel)
Highlights: Complete setup for beginners.
✅ Pros:
– Includes a balanced rod and reel
– Great value for money
– Ready to fish out of the box
❌ Cons:
– Reel alone may lack some advanced features
Best For: New fly anglers looking for an all-in-one solution.
5. Redington Crosswater II Fly Reel (Upgraded Version)
Highlights: Improved drag and construction.
✅ Pros:
– Smoother drag system
– Enhanced durability
– Better sealing against elements
❌ Cons:
– Pricier than the original Crosswater
Best For: Intermediate anglers wanting an upgrade without breaking the bank.
—
Buying Considerations for a Redington Crosswater Fly Reel
Before purchasing, keep these factors in mind:
✔ Match the reel size to your rod weight (e.g., 5-6wt reel for a 5-6wt rod).
✔ Check the drag system—smoothness and adjustability matter.
✔ Consider future use (will you fish in saltwater later?).
✔ Read reviews to ensure reliability.
—
FAQ: Common Questions About the Redington Crosswater Fly Reel
Q1: Is the Redington Crosswater Fly Reel good for beginners?
✅ A: Absolutely! It’s affordable, durable, and easy to use.
Q2: Can I use it in saltwater?
✅ A: Only the Saltwater model is fully corrosion-resistant.
Q3: Does it come with a warranty?
✅ A: Yes, Redington offers a limited lifetime warranty.
Q4: How does the drag perform on larger fish?
✅ A: The Large Arbor and Saltwater models handle bigger fish well.
Q5: Is the reel noisy?
✅ A: No, it operates smoothly with minimal sound.
—
Final Thoughts & Where to Buy
The Redington Crosswater Fly Reel is a fantastic choice for anglers at any level. Whether you’re chasing trout in a mountain stream or bonefish on the flats, there’s a Crosswater reel suited for your needs.
Ready to upgrade your fly fishing gear? Check out trusted retailers like Amazon, REI, or Redington’s official website for the best deals!
🎣 Tight lines and happy fishing! 🎣