Budget Fly Reels: You Don’t Need to Break the Bank to Catch Fish – The Wading Room

There are a couple of key things to consider when evaluating a budget fly reel, or for that matter any reel.

Firstly, consider the construction. Most budget reels are die-cast, meaning molten metal is poured into a mould. This is cheaper than machining a reel from a solid block of aluminium, but die-cast reels are generally less durable and precise. If dropped on rocks, they’re more likely to break or deform. Some brands use pressure casting or incorporate machined components, which can improve quality.

Secondly, assess the drag system. Is it sealed or unsealed? Sealed drags offer better protection against grit, salt, and water, requiring less maintenance. Unsealed drags work fine but need more regular cleaning. Crucially, the drag needs to be smooth. A jerky drag can lead to snapped tippets. This ties into startup inertia — the initial resistance before the spool starts spinning smoothly under drag. Low startup inertia is vital, especially when using light tippets for spooky fish. A reel that takes too much force to get going can instantly break that fine connection.

Our course, matching your fly reel to the specific type of fishing you’ll be doing is crucial for success and enjoyment on the water, and it is important to keep this in mind as you are evaluating any reel.

For example, for delicate presentations to spooky trout in small streams around NSW or Victoria, the priority is often a reel with very low startup inertia – that initial resistance before the drag engages smoothly — to protect light tippets. In this scenario, massive backing capacity or immense stopping power is less critical. Conversely, if you’re targeting larger, faster species like Australian salmon off the beaches, kingfish in Sydney Harbour, or even hefty Murray cod in inland rivers, the focus shifts dramatically. You’ll need a reel with ample backing capacity and, most importantly, a strong, reliable drag system capable of slowing powerful runs without seizing or failing. Furthermore, fishing saltwater environments demands reels built with corrosion-resistant materials and ideally sealed drag mechanisms to protect against the damaging effects of salt and grit, ensuring longevity and consistent performance trip after trip.

With those points in mind, let’s look at my three favourite budget champions often found at Australian fly shops.

Redington Behemoth

Construction: Die-cast aluminium with a unique, aggressive look.

Drag: Carbon fibre drag system, known for being incredibly powerful for its price point – strong enough for bigger species like Murray cod, Aussie salmon, or even smaller pelagics.

Pros: Unmatched stopping power in the budget category, very affordable, durable finish for a diecast reel.

Cons: It’s relatively heavy compared to others (only slightly), the drag (while powerful) might have slightly higher startup inertia than the other reels, and being die-cast, it’s less impact-resistant than machined options.

Sizes: Available in four colours (Black, Bronze, Gunmetal and Olive Drab Green) and five sizes from a 4/5, 5/6, 7/8, 9/10 and 11/12

I personally fish a Behemoth in both the 5/6 and 7/8 sizes in both fresh (carp and bass) and saltwater (general estuary, salmon and small pelagics) and I am really impressed with this reel. Yep, the startup inertia could be a little better but other than this, the stopping power of the drag is awesome.

Lamson Liquid S

Construction: Pressure-cast aluminium frame and spool. Lamson uses a process that results in a higher quality finish and potentially better durability than standard die-castingDrag: Features the same CNC-machined conical drag system found in Lamson’s more expensive reels. This drag is renowned for its smoothness and low startup inertia.

Pros: Excellent, smooth, reliable drag performance that punches well above its price, lightweight, and great value.

Cons: The pressure-cast construction isn’t as bombproof as a fully machined reel; aesthetics are functional rather than fancy.

Sizes: Available two colours (Smoke and Daybreak) and four sizes; 3+, 5+, 7+ and 9+

For exceptional value, keep an eye out for the Lamson Liquid S Reel Set, which includes the reel and two spare spools in a practical case: perfect for carrying different line types.

Orvis Clearwater II

Construction: Die-cast aluminium with a durable powder-coat finish. The design of this reel has been recently updated so make sure you’re looking at the latest model.Drag: Carbon-to-stainless, sealed disc drag. It’s a very reliable and smooth system suitable for most trout, carp and general freshwater applications.

Pros: Backed by Orvis’s excellent reputation and customer service, solid all-around performance, good value, pairs aesthetically and functionally well with the popular Orvis Clearwater rods.

Cons: Die-cast construction limits ultimate durability, the drag might not have the raw power of the Behemoth or the refined smoothness and low startup inertia of the Lamson Liquid S’s conical system.

Sizes: Available in two colours (Charcoal and Dark Pine) and three sizes; 3/5, 5/7 and 7/9

Like the Lamson, the Clearwater is also available in a multipack.

Choosing Your Budget Champion

There’s no single “best” budget reel — it depends on your priorities. If you need maximum stopping power for bigger fish and don’t mind the weight, the Behemoth is hard to beat for the price. If your priority is the smoothest drag with low startup inertia for protecting light tippets, the Lamson Liquid S (especially in a value set) is arguably the class leader. If you value brand reputation, reliable all-around performance, and perhaps already own other Orvis gear, the Clearwater is a safe and dependable choice.

Ultimately, any of these reels will successfully hold your line and help you land fish. Consider your main target species, the conditions you fish in, and try to handle them in a local Australian fly shop if possible.

A massive thanks to Mal from The Wading Room Blog for sharing with us at BWCflies.

The Wading Room Blog