# **How to Choose the Redington Behemoth 11/12 Fly Reel**
As an angler, selecting the right fly reel is crucial for a successful fishing experience. The **Redington Behemoth 11/12 Fly Reel** is a popular choice among saltwater and big-game anglers due to its durability, smooth drag system, and affordability. However, choosing the right reel requires understanding its features and how they align with your fishing needs. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know before purchasing the **Redington Behemoth 11/12**.
## **1. Understanding the Behemoth’s Key Features**
### **Durable Construction**
The **Behemoth 11/12** is built with a **machined aluminum frame and spool**, ensuring strength and corrosion resistance—essential for saltwater fishing. Its **sealed drag system** prevents water and debris from affecting performance, making it ideal for harsh environments.
### **Smooth Drag System**
One of the standout features is its **fully sealed carbon fiber drag**, providing **up to 20 lbs of stopping power**. This is critical when battling large fish like tarpon, permit, or striped bass. The drag adjustment is smooth and consistent, preventing sudden jerks that could break your leader.
### **Large Arbor Design**
The **large arbor** allows for **faster line retrieval**, reducing slack when fighting strong fish. It also helps prevent line memory, ensuring smoother casts and better control.
### **Weight and Balance**
Weighing **9.4 oz**, the Behemoth 11/12 is relatively lightweight for its size. However, pairing it with a properly balanced rod is essential for comfort during long casting sessions.
## **2. Who Should Use the Behemoth 11/12?**
This reel is designed for **serious saltwater and big-game anglers**. If you’re targeting:
– **Tarpon**
– **Permit**
– **Striped Bass**
– **Salmon/Steelhead (heavy setups)**
– **Offshore species (tuna, dorado, etc.)**
…then the **Behemoth 11/12** is an excellent choice. However, if you primarily fish small streams or light freshwater species, a smaller reel (like the Behemoth 7/8) may be more suitable.
## **3. How to Pair It with the Right Rod & Line**
### **Rod Selection**
The **Behemoth 11/12** pairs best with:
– **11 or 12-weight rods** (ideal for big saltwater species)
– **Fast-action rods** (for powerful, long-distance casting)
– **Graphite or composite rods** (for sensitivity and strength)
### **Line Choice**
– **Saltwater floating lines** (for flats fishing)
– **Intermediate/sinking lines** (for deeper water)
– **Backing capacity**: The reel holds **300+ yards of 30lb Dacron**, ensuring you have enough line for long runs.
## **4. Price & Value Compared to Competitors**
The **Redington Behemoth 11/12** is priced competitively (typically **$200-$250**), making it an affordable alternative to high-end reels like the **Hatch Finatic** or **Nautilus NV-G**. While premium reels offer slightly smoother drags, the Behemoth delivers **90% of the performance at half the price**, making it a favorite among budget-conscious anglers.
## **5. Maintenance Tips**
To keep your **Behemoth 11/12** performing at its best:
– **Rinse with freshwater** after saltwater use.
– **Occasionally grease the drag system** (though it’s sealed, maintenance extends lifespan).
– **Check for line wear**—replace backing if frayed.
## **Final Verdict: Is the Behemoth 11/12 Worth It?**
If you need a **durable, high-capacity fly reel** for big fish without breaking the bank, the **Redington Behemoth 11/12** is an outstanding choice. Its **sealed drag, strong construction, and smooth performance** make it a reliable tool for serious anglers.
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**Tight lines!** 🎣