Redington Vice Fly Rod Review

Is the Hype Real? Redington Vice Fly Rod Reviewed

The Redington Vice Fly Rod has been making waves in the fly fishing community, touted as an accessible yet high-performing fast-action rod. Redington promises a rod that bridges the gap between beginner-friendly casting and the responsiveness needed for experienced anglers, all at a price that won’t break the bank. Is this just marketing spin, or does the Vice truly deliver on its promises? This review aims to answer that question through in-depth analysis and real-world testing.

My journey to the Redington Vice Fly Rod started with a frustrating search for a reliable backup rod. I wanted something that could handle various freshwater conditions without sacrificing casting accuracy or feel. Many rods I considered were either too expensive for a “backup” or lacked the performance I needed for finicky trout.

Unboxing the Vice, I was immediately impressed with its clean aesthetics. The black anodized snake guides and laser-etched reel seat gave it a touch of class that belied its affordable price point. The four-piece construction and included Cordura rod tube also added to its appeal.

I considered the Orvis Clearwater and the Echo Carbon XL as alternatives. Both are well-regarded in the entry-level fly rod market. However, the Redington Vice Fly Rod’s fast action and sleek design swayed me.

My initial impression was a pleasant surprise. The rod felt well-balanced and the action seemed lively. I was excited to get it out on the water and put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redington Vice Fly Rod to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Redington Vice Fly Rod was on the Deschutes River in Oregon, known for its challenging currents and selective redband trout. I primarily fished nymphs and dry flies. The conditions were partly cloudy with a slight breeze, typical for a fall day on the Deschutes.

The Vice handled both nymphing and dry fly presentations with surprising ease. Its fast action allowed for tight loops and accurate casts, even in the wind. I quickly got accustomed to its responsiveness and found myself placing flies exactly where I wanted them.

One minor issue I noticed was a slight “tip bounce” during the initial casts. However, this quickly subsided as I adjusted my casting stroke. Overall, the first use was a positive experience, and the Redington Vice Fly Rod exceeded my initial expectations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use on various rivers and streams, the Redington Vice Fly Rod has proven to be a reliable and capable performer. It has withstood its fair share of bumps and scrapes without showing any significant signs of wear and tear. The Durable Cordura Rod Tube provides great protection during transport.

Maintenance has been a breeze. A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is all it takes to keep the rod in top condition. The anodized aluminum reel seat also resists corrosion, ensuring long-term durability.

Compared to some of my higher-end rods, the Vice doesn’t offer the same level of sensitivity. It holds its own and provides excellent performance for its price point. It has become my go-to rod for situations where I don’t want to risk damaging my more expensive gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Redington Vice Fly Rod

Specifications

The Redington Vice Fly Rod boasts a range of specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It is built with multi-modulus carbon fiber blanks, which provide a balance of power and sensitivity. The Rod’s Fast Action ensures quick line speed and accurate casting.

• Rod Type: Fly
• Length: 9ft
• Rod Action: Fast
• Power: Medium
• Number of Sections: 4 Pieces
• Line Weight: 5 wt
• Water Type: Freshwater
• Rod Material: Carbon Fiber
• Reel Seat: Anodized Machined Aluminum
• Included Accessories: Durable Cordura Rod Tube

These specifications translate to a rod that is well-suited for a variety of freshwater applications. The 9-foot length provides excellent reach, while the 5-weight line rating makes it ideal for trout, bass, and panfish. The four-piece design adds to its portability, making it easy to transport to remote fishing locations.

Performance & Functionality

The Redington Vice Fly Rod performs admirably in a variety of fishing scenarios. Its fast action delivers excellent line speed and allows for precise casts, even in windy conditions. The rod’s sensitivity allows anglers to detect subtle takes and react quickly.

While it might not offer the finesse of a high-end graphite rod, the Vice provides a remarkable balance of power and feel. It’s a versatile tool that can handle both delicate dry fly presentations and heavier nymph rigs. The rod is easy to load and cast, even for novice anglers.

One minor weakness is that the rod can feel a bit “tippy” when casting very light flies. Overall, the Redington Vice Fly Rod meets and exceeds expectations for a rod in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Redington Vice Fly Rod features a clean and modern design. The black anodized snake guides and laser-etched reel seat provide a sleek and sophisticated look. The rod feels well-balanced in hand and the grip is comfortable, even during extended fishing sessions.

The Anodized Machined Aluminum Reel Seat is both durable and corrosion-resistant. The Laser-Etched Model Reference on Reel Seat is a convenient touch for quick rod identification. The rod is user-friendly and requires minimal learning curve, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Durability & Maintenance

The Redington Vice Fly Rod is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The Carbon Fiber blank is both strong and flexible, and the anodized aluminum reel seat resists corrosion. With proper care and maintenance, this rod should last for many years.

Maintaining the Vice is simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The Durable Cordura Rod Tube provides excellent protection during storage and transport.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redington Vice Fly Rod comes with a Durable Cordura Rod Tube with built-in rod dividers. This provides excellent protection during transport and storage. While the rod itself doesn’t offer a wide range of customization options, the standard reel seat is compatible with most fly reels on the market.

Anglers can also customize the rod’s performance by choosing different fly lines and leaders. The Vice is compatible with a wide range of fly line types and brands. This allows anglers to fine-tune the rod’s performance to suit their specific fishing needs.

Pros and Cons of Redington Vice Fly Rod

Who Should Buy Redington Vice Fly Rod?

The Redington Vice Fly Rod is perfect for: beginner and intermediate anglers looking for a versatile and affordable fly rod, anglers who need a reliable backup rod, and those who fish in a variety of freshwater conditions. This rod offers a great balance of performance, durability, and value, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of anglers.

Who should skip this product? Advanced anglers who demand the ultimate in sensitivity and performance may find the Vice lacking compared to higher-end rods. Anglers who primarily fish for very large species, like salmon or steelhead, may also want to consider a heavier weight rod.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality fly reel is essential for balancing the rod and ensuring smooth line retrieval. A selection of different fly lines and leaders will allow anglers to customize the rod’s performance for various fishing situations.

Conclusion on Redington Vice Fly Rod

The Redington Vice Fly Rod is a solid performer that lives up to its reputation as an accessible and capable fast-action rod. Its combination of performance, durability, and value makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of anglers. While it might not offer the ultimate in sensitivity or finesse, it provides a remarkable balance of power and feel that is sure to impress.

At a price of $189.99, the Redington Vice Fly Rod offers exceptional value for the money. It’s a rod that anglers of all skill levels can appreciate, and it’s sure to provide years of reliable service.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Redington Vice Fly Rod to anyone looking for a versatile and affordable fly rod. It’s a true workhorse that can handle a variety of fishing situations with ease. If you’re looking to upgrade your fly fishing gear without breaking the bank, the Vice is definitely worth considering. Grab one today and experience the difference for yourself!