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When you compare OKUMA vs redington fishing reel options, you are looking at two distinct approaches to gear. Both brands offer durable construction and reliable performance for serious anglers. The main difference lies in their intended use. OKUMA focuses on trolling with line counting features. Redington targets fly fishing with large-arbor designs. You should choose based on your specific fishing style and target species.
Use
Trolling
Saltwater, Freshwater
Rod Type
not listed
Fly
Reel Weight
14.6 ounces
10.4 ounces
Line Capacity
290 yds/12 lb
200 yards / 20 lb
Drag System
Carbonite, ratcheting drag star
Carbon fiber, super-heavy duty
Choose the first if
- You need a line counter for precise trolling depth management.
- You prefer a reel with a mechanical stabilizing system for heavy loads.
- You want a model designed specifically for cold water trolling applications.
Choose the second if
- You use fly rods and need a large-arbor spool for quick retrieval.
- You want a lighter reel that weighs under 11 ounces.
- You need a multipurpose reel suitable for both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Verdict
Choose the OKUMA Cold Water Linecounter if you require precise line measurement and dedicated trolling power. Pick the Redington Behemoth if you prioritize a lightweight fly reel with a large-arbor design for faster line retrieval. Your choice depends entirely on whether you are trolling with heavy gear or fly fishing with lighter setups.
OKUMA vs Redington Reel Specs
Intended Use
Edge: Tie
You need to match the reel to your fishing style. The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel is designed specifically for trolling. It features a mechanical line counter that measures in feet, helping you track depth and distance precisely while dragging lures. The Redington Behemoth Fly Fishing Reel serves both freshwater and saltwater environments. Its large arbor design aids in speedy line retrieval and reduces line memory, making it versatile for casting flies to trout or larger species. One is a specialized trolling tool, while the other is a multipurpose fly reel.
Weight
Edge: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
Weight affects how long you can hold the rod comfortably. The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel weighs 14.6 ounces. This adds some heft, which can help with casting heavy trolling weights and provides stability when fighting big fish like salmon or walleye. The Redington Behemoth Fly Fishing Reel is lighter at 10.4 ounces. This reduced weight is beneficial for fly fishing, where you cast repeatedly. Less weight reduces fatigue during long days on the water. You get a lighter tool from Redington, while Okuma offers more mass for power applications.
Drag System
Edge: Tie
The drag system controls how line releases when a fish runs. Okuma uses a multi-disc, Carbonite drag system paired with an aluminum ratcheting drag star. This setup delivers up to 20 pounds of stopping power and allows for precision settings. It is built for smooth, line-peeling runs. Redington employs a super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag package. This design brings strong drag strength and reliability. The Behemoth combines this heavy-duty drag with a unique die-cast construction. Both use carbon fiber for durability and performance, but Okuma emphasizes precision adjustment while Redington focuses on raw power and reliability.
Line Capacity
Edge: Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel
Line capacity determines how much line you can hold on the spool. The Okuma Cold Water model listed holds 290 yards of 12-pound test line. This ample capacity suits trolling applications where you need significant line out. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 model holds 200 yards of 20-pound test line. This capacity is sufficient for many freshwater and light saltwater fly fishing scenarios. Okuma provides more total yardage for its specific line weight. Redington offers a balance of capacity and line strength for fly fishing needs. You choose based on how much line you typically use.
Physical Dimensions
Edge: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
Size impacts storage and compatibility with your rod. The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel measures 6.5 inches in length, 4.5 inches in width, and 3.5 inches in height. Its bulk accommodates the line counter mechanism and large gears. The Redington Behemoth Fly Fishing Reel is more compact at 5.5 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 3.5 inches in height. The smaller profile fits better with fly rods, which are typically lighter and more delicate. Okuma is larger to house its trolling features. Redington is streamlined for fly fishing ergonomics. You select the size that fits your rod handle and storage space.
Which reel fits your style
Troll for salmon or steelhead
Our pick: Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel
You need precise depth control. The Okuma CW-153D includes a mechanical line counter measuring in feet. Its 14.6-ounce weight and 20-pound drag system handle heavy trolling loads. The Carbonite drag provides smooth resistance for big fish. This reel is built specifically for tracking line depth in cold water conditions.
Fly fish for trout or saltwater
Our pick: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
You need a versatile fly reel. The Redington Behemoth 7/8 fits 5-weight rods. It holds 200 yards of 20 lb backing. The large arbor spool speeds up line retrieval. Its carbon fiber drag offers strong stopping power. The die-cast body works for both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Angler wanting lightweight gear
Our pick: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel
Weight matters for long days. The Redington Behemoth weighs 10.4 ounces. This is lighter than the Okuma option at 14.6 ounces. The reduced weight helps reduce fatigue. You still get a robust carbon fiber drag system. The large arbor design aids in quick line pickup without adding bulk.
Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel
Best for: cold water trolling with line counters
- Drag Type
- ratcheting drag star
- Line Capacity
- 290 yds/12 lb
- Reel Weight
- 14.6 ounces
- Use
- Trolling
- Dimensions
- 6.5 × 4.5 × 3.5 inches
- Weight
- 14.6 ounces
The OKUMA Cold Water CW-153D is a trolling reel designed for cold water conditions. It weighs 14.6 ounces and holds 290 yards of 12 lb line. The reel features a mechanical line counter with anti-fogging technology and a multi-disc Carbonite drag system. This setup provides smooth power for big fish. It suits anglers who need precise line management and reliable cranking strength.
- Lightweight 14.6-ounce aluminum build
- Mechanical line counter measures in feet
- Multi-disc Carbonite drag system for smooth runs
- Anti-fogging Clear View Technology on counter housing
- Lower line capacity of 290 yards compared to larger models
- Heavier than the Redington Behemoth fly reel
- Limited to trolling applications only
- You need a mechanical line counter for precise trolling
- You target salmon, steelhead, or walleye in cold water
- You prefer a lightweight reel under 15 ounces
- You primarily use fly fishing techniques
- You require a fly reel for freshwater casting
- You need a reel for warm water species
Verdict: OKUMA Cold Water CW-153D Trolling Reel is a specialized tool for anglers who require precise line measurement and heavy drag power in cold water environments. It fits those who prioritize mechanical counters and lightweight aluminum construction for trolling.
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
The Redington Behemoth 7/8 fly reel features a large-arbor spool and a carbon fiber drag system. It weighs 10.4 ounces and holds 200 yards of 20 lb backing. This multipurpose reel suits both freshwater trout and saltwater applications. The die-cast construction and ergonomic twin handle provide reliable performance for various fishing conditions.
- Super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag package
- Large arbor for speedy line retrieval
- Die-cast construction with interlocking spool
- Twin molded ergonomic handle grip
- Heavier build at 10.4 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Standard 200-yard backing capacity for 7/8 size
- Limited color options restricted to Black, Gunmetal, and O.D Green
- You need a multipurpose reel for freshwater and saltwater use
- You prefer a large-arbor design for reduced line memory
- You want a durable die-cast construction for heavy-duty drag
- You require a lightweight reel under 10 ounces
- You prefer a smaller size for lighter 5-weight rods
- You need a reel with a line counter feature
Verdict: Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel fits anglers seeking a durable, multipurpose fly reel for saltwater and freshwater use. Its large-arbor design and heavy-duty drag suit those targeting larger species or needing reliable performance in varied conditions.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel | Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel |
|---|---|---|
| Drag Type | ratcheting drag star | – |
| Line Capacity | 290 yds/12 lb | 200 yards / 20 lb |
| Reel Weight | 14.6 ounces | 10.4 ounces |
| Use | Trolling | Saltwater, Freshwater |
| Rod Type | – | Fly |
| Combo Type | – | Fly Fishing |
| Dimensions | 6.5 × 4.5 × 3.5 inches | 5.5 × 5 × 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 14.6 ounces | 10.4 ounces |
| Size | CW-153D; 290 yds/12 lb | 7/8 |
| Color | Gray | Black |
| Model | CW-153D | 5-5506R78B |
Frequently asked questions
Is OKUMA better for trolling than Redington?
OKUMA offers specialized trolling reels with integrated line counters. The Okuma CW-153D measures line depth in feet, which is critical for cold water trolling. Redington focuses more on fly fishing applications. If you need precise depth tracking while trolling, OKUMA provides the specific mechanical tools required for that technique.
Does Redington make reels for saltwater fly fishing?
Yes, Redington designs fly reels suitable for saltwater environments. The Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel features a large-arbor design and heavy-duty drag system. These specs help anglers handle larger species and varied conditions. It serves as a multipurpose option for both freshwater and saltwater fly fishing scenarios.
Which reel is lighter, the Okuma CW-153D or Redington Behemoth?
The Redington Behemoth 7/8 Fly Reel is lighter. It weighs 10.4 ounces. The Okuma CW-153D Trolling Reel weighs 14.6 ounces. The weight difference reflects their different purposes. The Okuma reel includes mechanical components for line counting, adding to its overall mass compared to the fly reel.
Can I use the Okuma CW-153D for fly fishing?
No, the Okuma CW-153D is designed specifically for trolling. It features a mechanical line counter and heavy drag power suited for trolling loads. It does not match the specifications required for fly fishing. You should choose a dedicated fly reel, such as the Redington Behemoth, for that style.
What size options are available for the Redington Behemoth?
The Redington Behemoth is available in size 7/8. This model is identified by the model number 5-5506R78B. The size indicates its capacity and suitability for specific rod weights. It is built to handle multipurpose demands in both freshwater and saltwater settings.
Does the Okuma CW-153D have a line counter?
Yes, the Okuma CW-153D includes a mechanical line counter. It measures line in feet, allowing you to track depth and distance accurately. This feature is essential for cold water trolling where precise depth control is necessary. It helps you maintain the correct lure depth for salmon or steelhead.
Is the Redington Behemoth durable for heavy use?
The Redington Behemoth is built for durability in varied conditions. It features a heavy-duty drag system suitable for larger species. The large-arbor design aids in line retrieval and reduces memory. These construction details support reliable performance in both saltwater and freshwater environments over time.
