Review: Redington Trout Field Kit
Taylor Hutchinson 06.22.23
Getting started with fly-fishing gear can be overwhelming at first. Having a good friend or mentor is key when starting any new project or hobby. Gear recommendations are a high priority for those trying to get started. Even experienced anglers that are looking to get their spouse and friends into the sport need entry-level gear gift ideas. Enter the Redington Trout Field Kit.
The Redington Trout Field Kit is a combo rod, reel, and fly line setup that gives an angler everything they require, minus flies, to get started. It comes in Cordura hard carry case for travel and some 9’ 5x tapered leader. The rod is a 4-piece nine-foot in length 5 weight with medium-fast action paired with an anodized aluminum reel seat. Each rod comes with a die-cast aluminum RUN reel that has a large arbor design and carbon drag system. Rounding out the kit is the RIO GOLD trout fly line using RIO SlickCast coating for durability and a forward taper. Add some nippers, hemostats, and locally sourced flies to make a versatile trout fishing rig ready for the novice angler to start chasing trout.
This kit fits into several roles for the novice to master fly fisherman. Entry-level kits like these get a new angler excited to get started. As a novice, this makes a great starter kit to work on your fly-fishing fundamentals. Those who are more seasoned fly fishermen can find this to be a great backup setup or gift idea to get their spouse or friend into the sport. The aluminum construction lends itself to a lightweight design that is also built to last. The rod’s medium action and length are perfect for just about any trout fishing scenario. This design is also optimal for the novice angler to perfect their casting techniques. RIO’s SlickCast coating paired with the reel’s carbon drag system aids with line retrieval and stopping power. While the forward taper of the fly line makes casting nice and easy. Having a packable, ready to go to kit, for the impromptu weekend fishing trips is delightful to have at any level.
Working with this outfit was a natural fit in the North Georgia creeks and Western North Carolina rivers. The rod and reel combo inspired confidence when navigating narrow or wide waters. Whether throwing a dry dropper rig or nymphing this setup never felt inadequate. The carrying case enabled me to keep it stowed under my back seat or riding next to the Yeti GoBox. Each kit comes with a lifetime warranty and by searching online one can find the kit for around $350. The Redington Trout Field Kit is a heck of a value when it comes to fly-fishing gear.
An entry-level combo kit is nothing new when it comes to getting into most outdoor sports. This one particular offers value and versatility that any experience level can appreciate. Gear doesn’t make an angler better, but it does encourage and inspire us to get outdoors, which is well worth the price of admission.
