Are you a new angler looking for affordable gear that performs well? Choosing your first fly fishing setup can feel complicated and overwhelming. Fly rods come with many confusing specifications like weight (wt), action, and length.
Many beginners seek a high-value kit that doesn’t force them to spend a fortune. This is where the Redington Crosswater Fly Fishing Combo comes in. It is frequently recommended as an excellent, entry-level option. But does this popular budget outfit truly live up to the hype? We took a deep dive to find out.
What is the Redington Crosswater Fly Fishing Combo? (Overview and Key Specs)
A basic fly fishing combo should include the rod, the fly line, and a reel. The Redington Crosswater Combo provides everything you need to start fishing right away.
Defined Components of the Crosswater Outfit
The outfit includes a graphite rod and a Crosswater reel. The reel comes pre-spooled with RIO Mainstream WF fly line. The combo typically also provides a leader. It comes packed in a cordura rod tube or case for transport and storage. The rod also includes alignment dots for easy section setup.
Recommended Beginner Specifications (9-foot 5-weight)
For versatility across different waters and species, the 9-foot 5-weight model is highly recommended for beginners. The 4-5 weight range is considered the universal rod for many angling situations. This size works well for species like trout, panfish, and smaller bass.
The Redington Crosswater rod has a medium-fast action. This action is ideal for new anglers.
Analyzing the Performance of the Crosswater Rod Action and Castability
The Redington Crosswater is engineered for novice anglers looking to build casting skills.
Rod Action and Feel
The rod is marketed as having medium-fast action. However, many testers find the rod leans slightly toward the medium side. This moderate action makes the rod forgiving. It allows beginners to easily feel the rhythm required for a good cast. This stiffness, paired with flexibility, helps prevent snapping the fly off during aggressive motion. The rod felt like an “extension of my hand” to one reviewer.
Short Distance Accuracy (Under 40 Feet)
The Crosswater truly excels at short distances, generally 30 feet or less. It allows for soft and accurate presentation of dry flies and nymphs. The rod’s sensitivity is impressive for an entry-level option. Roll casts and traditional casts are simple to execute. This accuracy is better than almost every other entry-level rod used by one reviewer.
Long Distance Casting and Power Limitations
On calm days, users report hitting 60 to 70-foot casts easily. The rod loads well and shoots line efficiently. However, the rod struggles when casting past 50–60 feet, especially in strong winds. When attempting longer casts or using heavier streamer patterns, the rod can show some tip wiggle and lose backbone.
Assessing the Quality of the Redington Crosswater Fly Fishing Combo Components
Rod Build Details and Durability
The Crosswater rod is constructed with performance graphite. It features alignment dots for quick and easy setup. The rod uses a durable anodized machined aluminum reel seat. This detail makes it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use. The cork grip is generally comfortable for full days on the water.
Crosswater Reel Functionality
The included Crosswater reel is functional but basic. It is made from a plastic or polymer material. Because of its material, it is considered lightweight. For trout fishing, the reel often functions mainly as a line holder. The drag system is generally described as straightforward and easy to adjust. Some users have noted the drag can struggle to hold well, especially on larger fish.
The Included Fly Line: A Must-Upgrade Component
The combo comes pre-spooled with RIO Mainstream WF fly line. The consensus among many anglers is that this included line is very poor quality. It is often described as stiff, easily kinked, and possessing significant memory (coils).
A poor fly line, which lacks smoothness and energy transfer, can ruin the casting experience. It is widely recommended that owners of the Redington Crosswater Combo immediately upgrade the fly line. Upgrading the line can make a massive difference in performance. I recommend RIO Gold fly lines series
Comparing Crosswater to Other Budget Fly Fishing Combos
The Crosswater is often cited as the best budget fly rod available. It offers great value, typically costing between $139.95 and $190 for the 4-piece outfit.
| Combo Feature Comparison | Redington Crosswater | Orvis Clearwater (Upgrade) | Echo Base Lift Kit (Competitor) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP (Approx.) | $139.95 – $190 (Combo) | $429 (Outfit) | $199 (Kit) |
| Warranty (Rod) | Limited 1-Year (Defects Only) | 25-Year Warranty (Covers Accidental Damage) | Lifetime Rod Warranty |
| Best For | Absolute best budget rod/backup rod | Superior performance and longevity | Best overall value |
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Crosswater vs. Orvis Clearwater (The Warranty Factor)
The Orvis Clearwater is a premium beginner option often compared to the Crosswater. The primary differentiator is the warranty coverage. The Redington Crosswater Combo carries only a limited 1-year warranty against defects. In contrast, the Orvis Clearwater outfit features a powerful 25-year warranty. This Orvis warranty covers accidental breakage, requiring only a $60 handling fee.
For beginner anglers who may break their first rod, the Orvis warranty provides superior coverage. The Orvis Clearwater is considered a nicer rod overall.
Crosswater vs. Echo Base/Lift (Value and Longevity)
The Echo Base Kit is another strong contender for beginners. Like the Clearwater, the Echo Base offers a lifetime warranty on the rod. This is a major advantage over the limited coverage of the Crosswater. Echo’s warranty process is often praised for being simple and quick. However, the Crosswater often wins on price point, sometimes retailing cheaper than the Echo options.
Understanding the Redington Crosswater Warranty and Customer Support
Crosswater Limited Warranty Details
Redington generally offers a lifetime warranty on its rods. However, the Crosswater Series is specifically excluded from this coverage. The Crosswater is covered only by a limited one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. This requires dated proof of purchase. It explicitly does not cover damage resulting from misuse, neglect, or accidental breakage.
Far Bank (Redington’s Parent Company) Customer Service
Redington is owned by Far Bank Enterprises. If a repair or replacement is needed, you must send the entire product, freight paid and insured, to Far Bank’s location in Bainbridge Island, Washington.
Experiences with the Far Bank warranty process have often been negative. Customers have reported lengthy waiting periods, sometimes weeks or months, and poor communication during the process.
Final Analysis
The Redington Crosswater Fly Fishing Combo is highly versatile and offers outstanding value for its price. The rod itself is forgiving, easy to cast, and performs accurately at the short-to-moderate distances beginners typically fish. It’s an excellent choice as a primary beginner rod or a reliable backup rod.
The primary downside is the quality of the included fly line, which should be replaced immediately for optimal performance. Prospective buyers should also be aware of the limited 1-year warranty on this series, which is significantly less comprehensive than competitors like Orvis or Echo.
If you are budget-conscious and willing to upgrade the fly line, the Crosswater is a fantastic way to start your fly fishing journey.
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FAQs About the Redington Crosswater Fly Fishing Combo
What fish species can I target with the Redington Crosswater?
The recommended 9-foot 5-weight model is best suited for targeting trout and panfish. It is versatile enough to handle smaller bass, but it is not powerful enough for larger species or heavy saltwater fishing.
Is the Redington Crosswater a good fly rod for beginners?
Yes, the Crosswater is highly recommended for beginners. It is built with a forgiving medium-fast action and is easy to manage and cast. It allows new anglers to focus on mechanics and build solid casting skills.
Does the Redington Crosswater Combo come with a good fly line?
No. The Rio line included is widely regarded as poor quality, stiff, and prone to memory (kinks or curls). Most experienced anglers recommend replacing the included fly line immediately to improve the casting experience.
What type of action does the Redington Crosswater have?
The rod is advertised as having medium-fast action. However, its feel often leans more toward the medium side. This action is ideal for beginners, offering sufficient stiffness to throw line while remaining flexible enough to prevent break-offs.
Is the Crosswater rod covered by a lifetime warranty?
No. The Crosswater Series is specifically excluded from Redington’s standard lifetime warranty. It is only covered by a limited one-year warranty against manufacturer defects in materials and workmanship. This limited warranty does not cover accidental damage.
