Redington has a few brand-new releases designed to celebrate the season, including an update to their Spey lineup with two new rods and a brand-new reel. We’ve been really excited to get our hands on these, and they make a great addition to the Redington lineup.
Redington Classic Spey Reel
We'll start with the reel.
The Redington Classic Spey Reel builds on the popularity of the Classic Trout Series, which was exceptionally popular throughout the year. We had a hard time keeping those reels in stock, and now Redington has taken that same aesthetic and concept and scaled it up for two-handed rods.
The Classic Spey is a wider-drum reel designed to accommodate the larger lines and additional backing you need for Spey fishing. It is available in Trout Spey sizes as well as larger full-Spey sizes capable of balancing rods up to the 8/9-weight range.
Visually, these have that classic look, with a really nice traditional aesthetic and a prominent click-and-pawl-style sound. The large, wide drum provides plenty of line capacity, while the additional weight helps balance the longer rods that these reels are designed to be paired with.
It's a simple, classic-looking reel that makes a lot of sense for anglers who appreciate traditional Spey tackle but still want something built around the practical demands of modern two-handed fishing.
Redington Classic Spey Rod
To go along with the reel, Redington has introduced the new Classic Spey Rod.
The Classic is positioned as the entry point in the new lineup, but don't let that designation fool you. This is a very nice-feeling rod with a deep-flexing, moderate action that makes it particularly forgiving and easy to cast.
That type of action lends itself especially well to shooting heads and Skagit-style lines. The rod loads deeply and provides plenty of feedback, making it a comfortable option for anglers who are newer to Spey casting or simply prefer a slower, more relaxed casting stroke.
The Classic Spey is available in a wide range of configurations, from Trout Spey models all the way up to longer, heavier rods for larger rivers and bigger fish.
If you're looking for a forgiving, easy-casting two-handed rod with a traditional feel, the Classic is definitely worth a look.
Redington Olympus Spey Rod
For something a little higher up the range, Redington has also introduced the Olympus Spey.
The Olympus has a really attractive deep green finish and uses a higher-modulus blank with Nano Resin technology. The result is a lighter, more refined construction that feels a little crisper than the Classic.
You'll notice that difference particularly in the tip. The Olympus is a little lighter and faster, giving it more responsiveness and a bit more speed through the casting stroke.
That said, it isn't an overly stiff or demanding rod. It still has a forgiving feel and plenty of flex, but it responds a little more quickly and precisely than the Classic.
Redington has also stepped up the components here, with higher-grade cork and guides, along with some really nice cosmetic touches. The composite cork accents give the rod a classic appearance.
Like the Classic, the Olympus is available from Trout Spey through heavier line weights, so there's a configuration for everything from smaller two-handed trout applications to larger steelhead and salmon fishing.
A Nice Step Forward
We've always liked the previous generation of Redington rods, but after getting our hands on these new models, we think these are a really nice step forward.
The Classic brings a forgiving, deep-loading action that makes it particularly approachable and well suited to Skagit-style casting, while the Olympus adds a little more refinement, speed and responsiveness for anglers looking for a higher-end option.
Paired with the new Classic Spey reel, Redington now has a really compelling selection of two-handed gear for the upcoming steelhead season.
If you're getting ready for Spey season this fall, these are definitely worth checking out.
You can find the new Redington Classic Spey Reel, Classic Spey Rod and Olympus Spey Rod in the shop or online now.
