Waterworks Lamson Fly Fishing Konic 2 Fly Reel

[alanb_ct]

I just bought a Waterworks Lamson Fly Fishing Konic 2 Fly Reel, and when I get it I'll post a review here. I have great luck with Lamson, and this seems to represent an amazing value. The reel incorporates the drag from their higher priced reels, but in a die-cast body. It's quite light for the size of the spool. I am pairing it with a Rio Gold line, that I will also review. Tight lines to all.

[FK]

Alanb,

I also purchased a Rio Gold line this weedend, in WF5F.

It will most likely end up on an old Ross Canyon 3 reel.

I did not have a chance to cast it today, with the heavy wind I stayed with the 6wt and streamers.

Regards,
FK

[alanb_ct]

OK, I just spooled up my new reel with the Rio Gold. I'll give a fishing report after using it this weekend, but here a few first impressions:

(1) A good value, definitely a perfect second/backup 5-6 weight reel,
(2) Almost the same size as my Litespeed 2,
(3) Lacks the hard, substantial edges we associate with fine machining (it's a cast reel),
(4) Drag appears to be identical to the Litespeed and has a very light setting, and
(5) Finish is sort of a pewter gray.

The reel will also accomodate a 6 weight line easily. I used 100 yards of Rio 20lb backing with the Rio Gold Line WF5F. The line has a similar mixed color scheme (pale yellow/olive) as the density-compensated lines, and that makes it easier to tell when the head is beyond the tiptop.

I am still carefully eyeing a Ross Rhythm 3.5 for my larger applications.

[AaronJasper]

When I get back from my trip I will let you use mine for a day. We can meet at the shop before my trip and just return it to the shop when you are done.

Aaron

[Dave]

Wow, that was perfect timing Alain, thanks for the report, you must have been writing as I sent you the pm asking about the new Konic. I look forward to hearing how it performs while fishing. As of last night, I'm a new Lamson fan, in addition to my Ross allegiance.

[Nymphmeister]

Cannot go wrong with that killer drag they have on all their reels. The Konic is die cast, but not "gravity feed" like most, but rather it is pressurized when they cast it, which apparently makes a stronger reel. Then they machine off a little metal to make it pretty, and voila, a Lamson reel for just over $100- isn't that so beautiful?

[alanb_ct]

The reel and line make an awesome combination. The action in the reel really reminds me of my Litespeed, with slightly cheaper elements (drag knob is flimsy plastic). The drag is super smooth.

The line is terrific, too, really very high floating and super slick. I like the color change and the line is easy to roll cast and shoot.

I highly recommend both products.

[Dave]

Alain, thanks for the reports! Great to hear both products get a thumbs up. The new Konic sounds like an incredible value, to say the least. Great to hear about the new Rio Gold, I've been awaiting to hear!

[paul young]

i recently bought a 3.5 konic and will test it this weekend. i'll post a report next week. i like the feel and appearance. hopefully some steelhead will help me test the drag....-Paul

[jhouseman]

I really believe the Konics are the best deal out today. I have my lake lines spread out over 10 of them! I also have a Velocity of which I love, but the functionality is identical. I used to have a grab bag of reels to cover my lake setup and none of them matched up to the Konic including: orvis, ross, phleugers, okumas, etc.- especially the Orvis Battenkill which gave me nothing but trouble.

I'm wondering how the Konic would hold up to salmon and/or saltwater. I need to find a cheap match for my 10wt this year.