New Lamson Velocity V3.5 8/9 wt Fly Reel (not Sage, Orvis, Ross, Galvan)
The Lamson Velocity V3.5 in 8/9 wt is a high-performance fly reel designed for saltwater and large freshwater species. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its key features and suitability:
Key Features:
1. Sealed Drag System (Cobalt™)
– Fully sealed, corrosion-resistant drag for smooth performance in saltwater.
– Wide drag range (up to 20 lbs of max force) to handle powerful fish.
2. Lightweight & Durable Construction
– Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with a hard-anodized finish.
– Cold-forged spool for added strength and reduced weight.
3. Large Arbor Design
– Faster line retrieval and reduced line memory.
– Backing capacity: ~200 yds of 20 lb backing with an 8/9 wt line.
4. Instant Anti-Reverse & Reliable Engagement
– No backplay when fighting fish; smooth sealed bearing system.
5. Ergonomic Design
– Large, easy-to-grip handle (with a cork knob option).
– Balanced for heavier rods (8/9 wt).
6. Made in the USA
– Precision machining and rigorous quality control.
Ideal Use Cases:
– Saltwater: Tarpon, bonefish, permit, striped bass.
– Freshwater: Pike, musky, large trout, steelhead, salmon.
– Versatility: Works well with both floating and sinking lines.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|———-|———-|
| Superb drag smoothness | Higher price point than budget reels |
| Excellent corrosion resistance | Not the lightest reel in class (but durable) |
| Large backing capacity | Some prefer a louder click for bonefish |
| USA-made reliability | |
Competitor Comparison:
– Hatch Finatic 7+: More expensive, similar drag performance.
– Nautilus NV-G 8/9: Lighter, but less max drag force.
– Orvis Hydros SL: Cheaper, but not fully sealed.
Final Verdict:
The Velocity V3.5 is a top-tier reel for anglers needing a reliable, sealed drag system for demanding conditions. If you fish saltwater or target strong freshwater species, it’s an excellent choice. For lighter applications (e.g., trout), consider the 5/6 wt model.
Would you like recommendations for matching rods or lines?