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You are comparing the KastKing vs redington fishing reel options for different angling styles. Both brands build durable reels for fresh and saltwater use. The main difference lies in the fishing method. KastKing offers a baitcasting reel with magnetic braking and high gear ratios. Redington provides a fly reel with a large arbor design for line retrieval. You need to choose based on your rod type and casting needs.
Fishing Type
Baitcasting
Fly
Gear Ratio
7.2:1
not listed
Max Drag
17.64 lb
Super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag
Weight
12.6 ounces
10.4 ounces
Braking System
Auto-Adjustment Magnetic Braking
Large arbor design
Choose the first if
- You prefer baitcasting reels with magnetic braking for long casts.
- You need a high gear ratio for fast line retrieval.
- You want a reel with a flipping switch for precision pitching.
Choose the second if
- You use fly fishing rods and need a large arbor spool.
- You prioritize a lighter reel weight for extended casting sessions.
- You want a multipurpose reel for both freshwater and saltwater fly fishing.
Verdict
Choose the KastKing MegaJaws Elite if you need the precision and power of a baitcasting reel with magnetic braking. Pick the Redington Behemoth if you are set up for fly fishing and want a lightweight, large-arbor design. Your choice depends entirely on whether you cast with bait or fly.
KastKing vs Redington: Spec Comparison
Fishing method
Edge: Tie
You must choose the right reel for your casting style. KastKing offers the MegaJaws Elite, a baitcasting reel designed for flipping, pitching, and drifting baits. Its magnetic braking system adapts to spool speed to minimize backlashes. Redington provides the Behemoth, a fly fishing reel built for freshwater and saltwater use. Fly fishing requires a different technique than baitcasting. The Behemoth features a large arbor spool for speedy line retrieval. You cannot use these reels interchangeably. Your choice depends entirely on whether you cast lures or fly line. This fundamental difference dictates all other specifications you will review.
Drag strength
Edge: Tie
Drag power determines how well a reel handles strong fish. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite provides a maximum drag of 17.64 lb using a triple carbon disc drag. This system offers consistent pressure during long fights. The Redington Behemoth features a super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag package. Redington claims this is the most powerful drag in its class for fly reels. The exact poundage is not listed in the specifications. Fly reels often prioritize smoothness over peak maximum drag. Both reels use carbon fiber for durability. You need sufficient drag to stop a running fish without breaking your line.
Build material
Edge: Tie
Construction materials affect weight and corrosion resistance. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite uses a CNC aluminum frame with a carbon side cover. This combination keeps the reel light at 12.6 ounces while maintaining rigidity. The Redington Behemoth uses a unique die-cast construction. It also features a durable, interlocking large-arbor spool design. The Behemoth weighs 10.4 ounces. Aluminum frames are common in baitcasting reels for strength. Die-cast bodies are standard in fly reels for cost and weight balance. Both designs aim for durability in saltwater and freshwater environments. The materials chosen suit their respective fishing methods.
Weight
Edge: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
Reel weight impacts casting comfort and fatigue. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite weighs 12.6 ounces. This weight is typical for a feature-rich baitcasting reel with magnetic braking. The Redington Behemoth weighs 10.4 ounces. Fly reels are generally lighter than baitcasting reels of comparable size. The Behemoth is sized for a 5-weight trout rod. Lighter reels allow for all-day casting without strain. The KastKing is slightly heavier due to its aluminum frame and complex braking system. You should hold the reel to feel the balance. Weight preference is subjective but affects long-term comfort.
Hand orientation
Edge: KastKing MegaJaws Elite Baitcasting Reel
Retrieve direction matters for your dominant hand. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite is specified as a Right Hand retrieve. This means you crank the handle with your right hand while holding the reel with your left. The Redington Behemoth does not list a specific hand orientation in the provided data. Fly reels are often available in both configurations. You must check the specific model details if you need a left-hand retrieve. Using the wrong hand orientation can cause discomfort. The KastKing data is explicit here. The Redington data requires verification. This is a critical fit for your personal preference.
Line capacity
Edge: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
Capacity determines how much line you can store. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 holds 200 yards of 20 lb backing. This is suitable for medium-sized saltwater species. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite does not list line capacity in the data. Baitcasting reels typically hold less line by volume but use thicker braid. The Behemoth’s large arbor design aids in line retrieval and reduces memory. You need enough backing for running fish. The specific capacity of the KastKing is unknown from the data. You must rely on the Redington’s stated 200 yards for comparison. This is a clear spec advantage for Redington in this dataset.
Which KastKing or Redington reel suits you
Anglers targeting bass with flipping techniques
Our pick: KastKing MegaJaws Elite Baitcasting Reel
The KastKing MegaJaws Elite includes a dedicated flipping switch. This feature lets you press the thumb bar to release line and stop instantly when released. It pairs with a 7.2:1 gear ratio for fast retrieval. The magnetic braking system adapts to spool speed, minimizing backlashes during short, precise casts required for flipping and pitching in heavy cover.
Fly fishermen needing large arbor retrieval
Our pick: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
The Redington Behemoth features a large arbor spool designed for speedy line retrieval and reduced line memory. It holds 200 yards of 20 lb backing in the 7/8 size. The super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag package provides strong stopping power. This reel is built for both freshwater trout and saltwater species, offering versatile performance across different environments.
Users prioritizing smooth casting distance
Our pick: KastKing MegaJaws Elite Baitcasting Reel
KastKing includes a Low Friction Tapered Vortex line guide. This funnel-shaped ceramic guide reduces line friction to improve casting distance. Combined with the AMB System and spool bearings, it supports smooth long casting. The CNC aluminum frame and carbon side cover keep the weight manageable while providing the structural rigidity needed for consistent control during extended fishing sessions.
KastKing MegaJaws Elite Baitcasting Reel
Best for: versatile baitcasting with magnetic braking
- Gear Ratio
- 7.2:1
- Max Drag
- 17.64 lb
- Bearing Count
- 11+1
- Drag Type
- triple carbon disc drag
- Frame Material
- CNC aluminum
- Hand Orientation
- Right Hand
This baitcasting reel features a 7.2:1 gear ratio and 11+1 bearings for smooth retrieval. It includes a magnetic braking system to reduce backlashes and a flipping switch for precise line control. The CNC aluminum frame supports a 17.64 lb max drag. It weighs 12.6 ounces. This setup suits anglers who need versatile performance for flipping, pitching, or bottom fishing in various conditions.
- 11+1 bearing count for smooth casting
- 17.64 lb max drag capacity
- 7.2:1 gear ratio for retrieval speed
- Magnetic braking system reduces backlashes
- Flipping switch for precise line release
- Heavier at 12.6 ounces compared to lighter options
- 7.2:1 gear ratio is slower than 9.1:1 variants
- Right hand orientation limits left-handed users
- You want a magnetic braking system for longer casts
- You need a flipping switch for precise line control
- You prefer a CNC aluminum frame for durability
- You require a left-hand retrieve configuration
- You need a gear ratio faster than 7.2:1
- You prefer a reel lighter than 12.6 ounces
Verdict: KastKing MegaJaws Elite Baitcaster offers a 7.2:1 gear ratio and 11+1 bearings for smooth performance. It fits anglers who value magnetic braking and a flipping switch for versatile fishing techniques.
Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
Best for: multipurpose freshwater and saltwater fly fishing
- Line Capacity
- 200 yards / 20 lb
- Reel Weight
- 10.4 ounces
- Use
- Saltwater, Freshwater
- Rod Type
- Fly
- Combo Type
- Fly Fishing
- Dimensions
- 5.5 × 5 × 3.5 inches
This Redington Behemoth fly reel features a carbon fiber drag system and a large-arbor spool. It weighs 10.4 ounces and holds 200 yards of 20 lb backing. The die-cast construction offers durability for both freshwater and saltwater use. You get a twin molded handle with an ergonomic grip. This setup suits anglers seeking a multipurpose reel for trout or bigger game.
- Super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag package
- Large arbor design for speedy line retrieval
- Durable die-cast construction
- Twin molded ergonomic handle grip
- Suitable for saltwater and freshwater
- Heavier build at 10.4 ounces
- Standard 200 yard backing capacity
- Limited to fly rod applications
- You need a multipurpose reel for trout or saltwater
- You prefer a large arbor for faster line retrieval
- You want a durable die-cast construction
- You require a baitcasting reel
- You need a lighter weight under 10 ounces
- You prefer a smaller size like 5/6
Verdict: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel fits anglers who need a durable, multipurpose fly reel with a strong carbon fiber drag. It is ideal for targeting trout or saltwater species with a 5-weight rod or larger.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | KastKing MegaJaws Elite Baitcasting Reel | Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel |
|---|---|---|
| Gear Ratio | 7.2:1 | – |
| Max Drag | 17.64 lb | – |
| Bearing Count | 11+1 | – |
| Drag Type | triple carbon disc drag | – |
| Frame Material | CNC aluminum | – |
| Line Capacity | – | 200 yards / 20 lb |
| Reel Weight | – | 10.4 ounces |
| Hand Orientation | Right Hand | – |
| Use | – | Saltwater, Freshwater |
| Rod Type | – | Fly |
| Combo Type | – | Fly Fishing |
| Weight | 12.6 ounces | 10.4 ounces |
| Dimensions | – | 5.5 × 5 × 3.5 inches |
| Size | Right Hand | 7/8 |
| Color | Dark Galaxy | Black |
| Model | KK-MJE BC-2 | 5-5506R78B |
Frequently asked questions
Which reel has a higher gear ratio?
The KastKing MegaJaws Elite features a 7.2:1 gear ratio. This specification allows for faster line retrieval compared to standard fly reels. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel does not list a gear ratio in its published data. You should choose the KastKing model if rapid retrieval is a priority for your fishing technique.
How much does the Redington Behemoth weigh?
The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel weighs 10.4 ounces. This weight contributes to its balance when used with a 5-weight rod or larger. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite Baitcasting Reel is slightly heavier at 12.6 ounces. You can use these figures to determine which reel feels better in your hand during long casting sessions.
Does the KastKing reel use magnetic braking?
Yes, the KastKing MegaJaws Elite includes a magnetic braking system. This mechanism adapts to spool speed to help minimize backlashes during casts. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel relies on a carbon fiber drag system instead. You should select the KastKing option if you prefer magnetic control over your casts.
What material is the KastKing frame made of?
The KastKing MegaJaws Elite has an aluminum frame. This material choice supports the reel's durability and structural integrity. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel data does not specify the frame material. You can rely on the aluminum construction of the KastKing reel for a sturdy build suitable for versatile fishing techniques.
Is the Redington Behemoth suitable for saltwater?
The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel is listed for both saltwater and freshwater use. It features a strong carbon fiber drag for durability in these environments. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite is described as versatile for baitcasting but does not explicitly list saltwater compatibility in the provided specs. You should use the Redington reel for saltwater applications.
What is the bearing count for the KastKing reel?
The KastKing MegaJaws Elite contains 11 plus 1 bearings. This configuration is designed to provide smooth performance during retrieval and casting. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel data does not include bearing information. You can expect a smooth operation from the KastKing reel based on this bearing specification.
Does the KastKing MegaJaws have a flipping switch?
Yes, the KastKing MegaJaws Elite includes a dedicated flipping switch. This feature allows you to press the thumb bar to release line and stop instantly. It is designed for techniques like flipping and pitching. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel does not include this specific feature in its specifications.
What are the dimensions of the Redington Behemoth?
The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel measures 5.5 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 3.5 inches in height. These dimensions help it fit comfortably on a 5-weight rod or larger. The KastKing MegaJaws Elite data does not provide specific length, width, or height measurements. You can use these size details to check compatibility with your rod.
