Sage 2250 Fly Reel Review

We loved Sage's 1880. While not the prettiest reel, it virtually re-defined entry level quality for fly reels. When it was discontinued, we were a little sad, but excited to see the new replacement. When they based the 2200 series on the acclaimed 4200 series, it was sure to be a winner. How great is the Sage 2250? Read on to find out. 5-Weight Challenge Full Results

WEIGHT

5.1 ounces. Average.

DRAG

While the 2250 is based on the very successful 4250, the drag system is a bit different. While it's still pretty smooth, the 2250 has markedly less drag than its big brother. at 1.4 lbs, it's one of the weakest in the test.

Sealed?

Sure is.

DRAG TEST GRAPH

SOUND

The 2250 sounds very similar to the 4250. It's nice, but not best in class.

SPOOL & RETRIEVAL RATE

The 2250's spool also differs a little from the 4250. It's got a slower retrieve at only 7.5 inches per turn, and it's also a little wider. This gives it a little more volume, that no one really needs a the expense of a faster retrieve with less chance of pile up. The 2250 holds an estimated 190 yards of backing.

LOOK & FEEL

The 2250 follows in the footsteps of the 1850 in that it's a painted, cast reel, made overseas. That's not really a good thing. Painted reels just don't look or feel as nice as machined-anondized reels. That said, it is more modern and more interesting than the 1850 was, and looks cooler than the similarly priced Orvis Access.

Ergonimics

Handle: The handle on the 2250 is fine - a little longer would have been ideal, but it's not bad. Drag Knob: It's hard for most people to imagine getting excited over a drag knob, but it's one of the 2250's best and most innovative features. It's huge, textured, and very easy to grab and adjust. Spool Change: Quick change spool is very easy to use, but not as easy as a one-button release.

The Drop

Below Average. As with most cast reels, the 2250 did very well against divoting, but the paint was easily removed when we dragged the reel across the pavement. Having also fished this reel in the past, I can tell you that the finish does not hold up well in real life either. Worse, the frame bent when it was dropped and the reel was no longer usable.

WARRANTY

Lifetime to the original owner + $30 Price: $140

CONCLUSION

Is the 2250 a cheap version of the 4250? Yes and no. Where the 4250 was very good in virtually every category, the minor changes that were made to the design of the 2250 were just enough to knock it out of one of the top spots overall. That said, it's price makes the 2250 simply irresistible. For another affordable trout reel worth a look, see our Lamson Remix S review. Get yours here.

PROS

• Drag knob is a solid upgrade from the 4250
• Fast retrieve
• Amazing price

CONS

• We wanted more drag strength
• Painted finish was not built to last