Title: Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel Review: The Ultralight Contender
Why the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel?
When it comes to finding a solid 2/3 weight fly reel, options are surprisingly limited. You need something ultralight, simple, and dependable—no frills, just performance. That’s exactly why I picked up the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel for my creek setup. After a year of using the Redington Rise on my 4-weight, I had zero hesitation giving the Zero a shot. And let me tell you—I’ve been absolutely thrilled with it.
First Impressions
Right out of the box, the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel feels like it was designed for minimalist anglers who prioritize weight savings and simplicity. It’s one of the lightest reels in its class, thanks to a unique die-cast construction process that trims weight without sacrificing strength.
Key Features:
Weight: Only 2.7 ounces, making it one of the lightest fly reels available.
Drag System: Click-and-pawl drag for a classic feel and easy maintenance.
Large Arbor: Faster line retrieval and reduced line memory.
Material: Die-cast construction for a balance of durability and weight savings.
Aesthetic Choices: Available in multiple matte finishes.
On-the-Water Performance
Let’s talk about real-world use. The Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel shines when paired with a lightweight fly rod, making it a perfect match for small streams and creeks. Its click-and-pawl drag system keeps things simple while still providing just enough resistance to handle feisty trout.
The large arbor design makes line retrieval quick, which is especially useful when you’re managing delicate presentations in tight quarters. And because this reel is so light, it helps maintain a perfectly balanced setup—key for those long days of casting.
What I Love About This Reel
Featherlight Feel – At just 2.7 ounces, the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel disappears in your hand.
Minimalist Simplicity – No overcomplicated features. Just smooth performance.
Affordable – Compared to other ultralight reels, the price is hard to beat.
Durability – Die-cast construction holds up well under normal use.
Potential Drawbacks
No reel is perfect, and the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel is no exception. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
Plastic Clicker Mechanism – While it keeps the weight down, some users have raised concerns about long-term durability. I admit I broke one recently - my favorite one actually - not my fav for any other reason than I had some of my favorite catches while using it. Now, I took a hard fall and the reel took all of the weight on my right side. It snapped the handle clear off. I am only mentioning this as a potential drawback because I am not fully convinced that if it were any other plastic material, it wouldn’t have broken. I guess that it still would have - or at least bent into an unusable position.
Drag System is Basic – If you’re targeting bigger fish, you might want a reel with a more robust drag system. I snagged some 22” browns using this drag system. I mean, we are using a 2wt so 22” is pushing the limits of both the reel and rod. It worked beautifully.
How It Compares to Other Reels
I’ve used a handful of ultralight reels, and the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel stands up well against pricier options. Compared to the Orvis Battenkill II, which has a more refined click-and-pawl system, the Zero is significantly lighter and more budget-friendly. If you’re all about weight savings and simplicity, the Zero is hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
For anglers who love small water and ultralight setups, the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel is an excellent choice. It’s lightweight, reliable, and performs exactly as expected. While it may not be the best reel for bigger fish or those who need an adjustable drag, it’s absolutely perfect for creek fishing and chasing small trout. If you’re looking for an affordable, well-balanced, and ultra-light reel, the Redington Zero 2/3 Fly Fishing Reel is a winner.