Lamson Speedster 3.5 Fly Reel 8／9 Weight with Rio WF 9F bonefish line
Steve Kerr The Lamson Speedster 3.5 Fly Reel paired with a RIO WF9F Bonefish Line is a solid setup for saltwater or heavy freshwater fly fishing, particularly targeting species like bonefish, permit, or large trout. Here’s a breakdown of the components and their suitability:
1. Lamson Speedster 3.5 Fly Reel
– Size: 3.5 (ideal for 8/9-weight rods).
– Drag: Lamson’s fully sealed conical drag is smooth, reliable, and corrosion-resistant—great for saltwater.
– Construction: Machined 6061-T6 aluminum, lightweight yet durable.
– Spool Design: Large arbor for fast line retrieval and reduced memory.
– Weight: ~5.6 oz (balances well with 9-wt rods).
– Pros: Affordable, low-maintenance, excellent drag for the price.
– Cons: Not as sealed as high-end reels (e.g., Nautilus, Abel), but still solid for most conditions.
2. RIO WF9F Bonefish Line
– Weight: 9-weight floating line (WF = Weight Forward).
– Taper: Optimized for quick, long-distance casts in windy conditions.
– Core: Low-stretch for better hook sets.
– Coating: Saltwater-resistant for durability.
– Best For: Bonefish, permit, redfish, and other fast-moving saltwater species.
Ideal Use Cases
– Saltwater flats: Bonefish, permit, tarpon (smaller specimens).
– Big freshwater: Large trout, bass, pike, or light salmon/steelhead.
– Windy conditions: The WF9F line helps punch through wind.
Potential Upgrades
– Backing: Add 20-30 lb Dacron or gel-spun (150+ yds for bonefish runs).
– Leader: 9–12 ft fluorocarbon (8–12 lb for bonefish, heavier for permit/tarpon).
– Reel Care: Rinse after saltwater use to prolong life.
Alternatives to Consider
– Reel: Nautilus CCF-X2, Orvis Hydros SL (if you want a more sealed drag).
– Line: Scientific Anglers Amplitude Bonefish (if you prefer textured lines).
Final Verdict
This is a great mid-range setup for anglers targeting bonefish or similar species. The Speedster 3.5 offers a reliable drag, while the RIO line is purpose-built for fast, accurate casts. If fishing in harsh saltwater environments frequently, consider a reel with even better sealing (e.g., Lamson Litespeed or Vanquish).
Would you like recommendations for a rod to pair with this combo?