Redington Link 9' 5-Weight Fly Rod Review

New for 2013, the Redington Link replaces the CPX as Redington's "premier" rod. Redington has updated the look and feel of the rod, as well as boosting its casting performance. Enjoy the review? Buy it here. Here's what I was casting:

• Redington Link 9' 5wt
• Hardy Ultralite DD 4000
• Rio Gold WF5F

Fit and Finish

This is a good looking rod. There were three of us casting the Link and we all commented about how we liked the look of this rod. The blank itself is black with light blue lettering (which looks nice) and white alignment dots. Carbon fiber overlay not only gives it a nice visual touch, but is a factor in the rods construction/performance. The reel seat on the 5-weight seemed on the cheaper side, though it looks like as you step up in weight they add better construction. Cork seemed of OK grade.

Weight

The Redington Link is listed at 3.1oz. The rod is light, but not the lightest in its class. In hand, the swing weight felt felt light and had a good feel.

Distance

The Link's ability to cast longer distances was really dependent on double hauling. The rod has a decent amount of power, but doesn't exactly give you a lot feel while doing so. Long casts were possible but had to be based more on timing and creating line speed with hauling than they did on the response of the rod itself. It's taper gives it a smooth power so throwing longer didn't feel jerky, but it lacked any sort of noticeable action. It's stronger butt section not only helped with casting into the wind, but would certainly prove useful while fighting larger fish and lifting line off the water.

Accuracy

About as middle-of-the-road as one could imagine. The Link's construction gives it good power and a steady feel, but very little in the way of delicate presentation. At shorter distances it proved very average. It would seem that the Link would be better suited for medium to longer distances than delicate 20' casts.

Flex and Feel

The Link has a smooth feel. It doesn't feel overly powerful or stiff and no wet noodle either.

Nymphing

Digging larger fish out of deep pools would be a good task for the Link. The strong butt section and steady taper allows for good control over a nymph rig and aids in mending lots of line in heavier flows.

Streamers

The Link would be a good rod for streamer fishing. Above average power would help with heavier flies. It should make a good bonefish or striper rod in larger sizes as well…

Dry Flies

Dry flies are not the Redington Link's strong suit. I wasn't able to do much in terms of presenting a fly delicately.

Warranty

http://www.redington.com/support/warranty/

Price

$379

conclusion

Redington has put together a great new rod that's more than just a higher priced CPX. The Redington Link fly rod is a solid performer in the mid-priced category, but never let me forget it was, in fact, mid-priced.

Pros

• Decent power and smooth at long distances
• Lightweight but strong enough for fighting larger fish
• Great looks

Cons

• Doesn't stand out in any particular category
• Feel could be improved across all distances