Often touted as one of the best rods around for trout, we’ve couldn’t wait to get our hands on it and write this Redington Classic Trout review. The Redington Classic Trout has a great (almost) fast action and is in my opinion one of my favourite not-so-expensive fly rods to use with a dry-dropper set-up.
Using the latest technology combined with the best traits of earlier trout fly fishing rods, Redington has created the masterpiece (and bargain!) that is the Classic Trout rod.
Redington Classic Trout For Sale
Redington Classic Trout Specs:
| Line Weight: 2 – 5 | Length: 7 – 9ft |
| Action: Medium | Handle: Cigar |
| Rod Weight: 2.2 – 2.9oz | Rod Tube: Ballistic Nylon Rod Tube |
| Color: Clay Brown | Sections: 4 |
| Warranty: Redington Lifetime Warranty | Country Of Manufacture: USA |
Overall Score
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Pros
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Amazing accuracy
- Astounding value for money
- Not just for beginners
Cons
- Doesn’t perform well in strong winds
- Not suited for casting long distances
Available Sizes
- 7′ 6″ 2 WT
- 7′ 6″ 3 WT
- 8′ 6″ 3 WT
- 8′ 0″ 4 WT
- 8′ 6″ 4 WT
- 9′ 0″ 4 WT
- 8′ 6″ 5 WT
- 9′ 0″ 5 WT
- 9′ 0″ 5 WT
- 9′ 0″ 6 WT
While the folks at Redington [1] have come up with a whole range of fly rods, this one really stands out when it comes to trout fishing (just as the name suggests it would!). The rod is available in line weights from 2wt to 6wt and ranges from 7’6” up to 9’.
Redington worked hard to create the perfect rod for keen trout anglers to use on small to medium sized trout rivers and streams. It really shines at distances under 50 feet. A powerful, long-distance rod it’s not, but that just means that it excels at what it does do well: namely, trout fishing on small streams.
It sells at a lower price point depending on where you buy. This is truly an amazing price for a great little workhorse trout rod.
Features and Benefits
Let’s dig in deep into the rod and explore the individual features and benefits. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking of buying one.
Moderate-Fast Action and Mix Flex
It has moderate-fast action with mix flex and quick loading. In practice, this translates to an easy, smooth cast, especially in the medium range of 30-40ft. When you hook a fish, it will bend deeply, protecting your tippet, reducing breakoff, and really allowing you to feel the fish at the end of your line.
When you use the Redington – Classic Trout rod, you’ll experience a heightened level of exhilaration that you just don’t tend to expect when fishing for smaller fish. Every tug, pull, and movement on your hook will travel right up this sensitive rod and be sure to get your adrenaline going!
Construction and Looks
The folks at Redington are harking back to an era of classic rods [2] with this model. The brown blank, silver detailing, and rosewood reel seat don’t quite scream modern and cool, but that’s because it’s a tribute to those great rods of yesteryear.
It has a real vintage feel, but the latest technology has been harnessed in the construction to get that impressive flex, accuracy, and smooth casting. Redington has used intermediate modulus graphite for just the right balance of strength and flex.
Alignment dots make it easy to put together and the titanium oxide stripping guides are hardwearing and durable. The cork handle is also high-quality and feels nice to the touch.
Great care has gone into making these, and they certainly compare to much more expensive models when it comes to the craftsmanship and construction.
A Joy To Cast
The Redington is very lightweight and comfortable to cast, all day long. You won’t suffer from fatigue with this rod as you may do when using stiffer or heavier rods.
Not only this, but it has a heightened sensitivity that really allows you to feel the load and unload easily, every single time you cast. You will undoubtedly become hooked to casting [3] with this rod.
Highly Specialized for Trout Fishing
Normally, highly specialized rods come with a hefty price, making them unattainable for your average angler. This rod can, however, be had for a very reasonable price.
Redington has worked their magic by reinventing the classic rods of the 1970s, with all the flex and accuracy you need to fly fish for trout. It’s the perfect combination for a day on a trout river.
Redington has achieved this with a progressive taper: the thickness and stiffness increase consistently from the tip to the butt, allowing it to bend deeply. This taper allows for easy casts at short distances and more power behind longer casts as it flexes further down towards the butt section and pings back, releasing built-up energy.
Small Stream Rod
The RCT really shines on smaller streams and creeks. While you might struggle on big rivers to cast over 50 feet, you’ll have no problems for shorter distances up to 45 feet.
The fine-tuning on this rod means that while accuracy and presentation come out top, it is surprisingly powerful for a small stream trout fly rod, too.
If you’re looking for something with amazing accuracy but a bit more power than the Redington CT, check out our Orvis Helios 3 review here!
Perfect for Dry Fly Fishing
While preparing for our Classic Trout review, we discovered that the CT really is perfect for dry flies. When you cast this rod, you can achieve an impressively natural presentation, landing the fly lightly and gently on the water.
Your dry flies will be so convincing that you’re almost guaranteed a bite: you’ll have no trouble catching fish with this beauty. If you need any inspiration as to which flies to use with this set-up.
On the other hand, don’t feel that you’re limited to just using dry flies. Try rigging up some smaller streamers or nymphs to change things up a bit – you’ll have just as much success!
Unbeatable Value for Money
Coming in at a great price, there really is nothing else that compares when it comes to value for money. This isn’t just a backup rod or one for beginners: Experienced fly fishermen often choose the CT over more expensive fly models.
A Great Choice for Beginners and Experienced Anglers Alike
When they see the price tag on the Classic Trout rod, many fly fishermen instantly write it off as ‘just a beginner rod’. This is a big mistake!
Although it may cost the same as many of the basic models out there, the Classic Trout is high-quality and carefully constructed. Redington really has done something miraculous here by creating a rod that will serve fisherman of all levels of prowess.
You could pick the CT up on your very first fishing trip and learn how to cast and fly fish with it, and it would still be serving you well 10 years later for trout. In fact, it’s an especially good choice for learning to cast, due to its heightened sensitivity – you can easily feel the load and unload.
But that doesn’t mean this rod is limited to beginners. Unlike many basic models, this isn’t one that you’ll want to upgrade after a year or two.
Redington Classic Trout Reviews
Don’t just take our word for it. Here are some other raving reviews of the rod that we’ve come across online!
Hard to beat for the price. And even for the experienced Angler…. As a backup their rods would be great! However as a main rod Redington would as well. Just great rods at the price.
The rod performs great. Even had a guide comment on how nice the action was. I like it better than my 3wt Sage LL. I can’t fault a Redington. They are a great entry rod or for an experienced caster.
Overall, I am confident in saying this is one the best rods I’ve fished (better than all my Dad’s expensive Loomis and Sage, and far and above any of the less expensive rods I’ve owned). I don’t find myself wanting anything more in a general use 5-weight.
Alternative Rods
If you’re not convinced about this fly rod, you can take a look at our Redington Predator review here. But still here are some other great alternatives to compare it to. Check out our reviews and see which one will suit you best!
Piscifun Sword Review
Pros
- Very cheap
- Ideal for beginners on a budget
- Compact 4-piece for easy travel
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- The 4wt may put some anglers off
- Not as durable as other higher quality brands
Available Sizes
- 9′ 0″ 5 WT
- 9′ 0″ 7 WT
If you’re looking for something similar at a lower price, you should definitely check out the Piscifun Sword. This is a real bargain which will open the door and allow almost anyone to give it a try. The Piscifun Sword rods range from a slow action 4 weight right up to a fast action 9 foot 9 weight.
The closest comparisons to the Redington CT are the 4wt Sword, designed for trout fishing on smaller streams and creeks, and the medium action 5wt, which can handle larger trout and bigger rivers. The main difference is the slow action of the 4wt: Despite being buttery smooth and light to cast, a slower action just isn’t for everyone.
The Piscifun Sword is definitely the best trout rod you’ll find the price. It’s well-made, but it probably won’t last you for life. Piscifun does offer friendly, helpful customer service: If anything does happen to it, they will be happy to repair it for a small fee or offer you a discounted replacement.
Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo Review
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Pros
- Has everything you need to get started
- Affordable price
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Need to buy tippet
- The reel isn’t very durable
- Slower action
If you’re just getting started with trout and need a complete package, make sure to check out the Wild Water Combo. It includes everything you need to get out on the water: a 4 piece rod, rod sock and case, large arbor reel, flies and fly box, and an instruction manual. It’s even pre-rigged with line, backing, and leader, so you really are ready to hit the river and get casting!
Buying a combo kit is less overwhelming than having to research, source, and buy each piece of equipment independently. The manual is also helpful when you’re just learning and getting your feet wet.
This flyfishing rod is well-made and will stand up to a fair amount of use. The reel has a smooth drag, and the whole pack is small enough to pack up and take with you when you travel. You get amazing value for your money and Wild Water also offers excellent, US-based customer service in case you do have any issues.
The Wild Water Combo is ideal for anyone looking to get started, or if you want to buy a complete set to introduce a friend or family member to the joy of catching trout. The slow action is great for smaller streams and rivers, but it won’t be well-suited to larger rivers or bigger trout specimens. If that’s what you’re after, look for a medium to fast action rod instead.
Fenwick HMG Review
Pros
- Smooth, consistent action
- Great casting
- Excellent presentation
- High-quality with superior craftsmanship
- Affordable price
Cons
- The grip handle is fairly small
Available Sizes
- 8′ 0″ 4 WT
- 9′ 0″ 5 WT
- 9′ 0″ 8 WT
Incredibly, the HMG by Fenwicks was the first ever graphite fly rod! Today, Fenwicks have brought their HMG models up to date with a redesign, making these medium-fast action rods ideal for both beginner and advanced fly fishers. The new look HMGs are attractive and sleek, with matte black blanks and matte smoke reel seats.
With a slightly faster action than the Redington, this might be for you if you naturally tend towards a quicker cast. The HMG comes in right around the same price point, depending on where you buy. It’s comfortable and lightweight, making it a good alternative to the Redington CT for all-day casting.
FAQ
Is the Redington Classic Trout good?
Yes, the Redington Classic Trout is a good rod. It is light and responsive, and it has a nice, smooth action that makes it easy to cast. It is also very durable and well-made.
What is the Redington Classic trout rod made of?
The Redington Classic Trout rod is made of a high modulus graphite blank, which gives it a light and responsive feel. It also features a stainless steel snake guides, which help to reduce friction and improve casting accuracy.
Do Redington fly rods have a lifetime warranty?
Yes, Redington fly rods come with a lifetime warranty. This covers any manufacturing defects, so if you experience a problem with your rod you can contact Redington for a replacement or repair.
Can you use the Classic Trout for saltwater fly fishing?
Yes, the Redington Classic Trout rod can be used for saltwater fly fishing. It is tough enough to handle the demands of casting and retrieving in saltwater conditions.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a reliable and consistent trout rod, you can’t go wrong with this Redington Classic Trout. We reviewed it for you to see if it really does live up to the hype – and we can safely say that it does!
For shorter distances and small rivers, there’s just nothing in this range that performs as well – and as an added bonus, it’s an incredible bargain! For the price, there really isn’t anything that compares to this rod. When you use this rod, you can perfect your cast, achieve a natural, convincing presentation, and catch more trout.
I hope you’ve found this useful. Let us know what you think in the comments below! Do you have it and love it, or are you tempted to buy one after reading more about it? I’d love to know!
