The Ultimate Guide to Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rods: A Must-Have for Fly Fishing Enthusiasts
Fly fishing is an art, and having the right rod can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and a memorable catch. The Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rod is a versatile and budget-friendly option that has earned a loyal following among anglers. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first fly rod or an experienced angler in need of a reliable backup, the Crosswater series delivers performance without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of Crosswater rods, how to choose the best one for your needs, our top five recommendations, and key buying considerations.
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Types of Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rods
The Crosswater CW7/8/9 series is designed for different fishing conditions and species:
– CW7 (7-weight): Ideal for medium-sized freshwater fish like bass and trout.
– CW8 (8-weight): A great all-around choice for larger freshwater species and light saltwater fishing.
– CW9 (9-weight): Built for heavy freshwater and saltwater applications, targeting big game fish.
Each model is available in various lengths (typically 9’ to 9’6”), allowing anglers to choose based on casting style and fishing environment.
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How to Choose the Right Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rod
1. Target Species – Smaller fish (trout, panfish) do well with a CW7, while CW8/CW9 handle bass, pike, and saltwater species.
2. Fishing Environment – Longer rods (9’6”) help with distance casting in open water, while shorter ones (9’) offer better control in tight spaces.
3. Skill Level – The Crosswater series is beginner-friendly but performs well for intermediates.
4. Budget – These rods are affordable, but consider whether you need a combo (rod + reel + line) or just the rod.
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Top 5 Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rods
1. Redington Crosswater CW7 Fly Rod Combo
Highlights: Complete starter kit with rod, reel, and line.
✅ Pros:
– Affordable all-in-one package
– Medium-fast action for smooth casting
– Lightweight and easy to handle
❌ Cons:
– Reel is basic (may need upgrading later)
Best for: Beginners and casual trout anglers.
2. Redington Crosswater CW8 Fly Rod (Standalone Rod)
Highlights: Versatile 8-weight for freshwater and light saltwater.
✅ Pros:
– Durable graphite construction
– Handles larger fish with ease
– Smooth, responsive casting
❌ Cons:
– Not ideal for heavy saltwater use
Best for: Anglers targeting bass, carp, and smaller saltwater species.
3. Redington Crosswater CW9 Fly Rod Combo
Highlights: Powerful 9-weight for big game fishing.
✅ Pros:
– Strong backbone for fighting big fish
– Includes pre-loaded fly line
– Great value for the price
❌ Cons:
– Heavier than lighter models
Best for: Anglers chasing pike, steelhead, or inshore saltwater species.
4. Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rod (4-Piece Travel Version)
Highlights: Break-down design for easy transport.
✅ Pros:
– Compact and travel-friendly
– Same performance as 2-piece models
– Cordura rod tube included
❌ Cons:
– Slightly less rigid than 2-piece rods
Best for: Traveling anglers and backpackers.
5. Redington Crosswater CW8 Fly Rod Outfit (Premium Kit)
Highlights: Upgraded reel and line for better performance.
✅ Pros:
– High-quality disc drag reel
– Includes premium floating line
– Balanced for smooth casting
❌ Cons:
– Pricier than the standard combo
Best for: Intermediate anglers wanting better components.
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Buying Considerations for Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rods
✔ Rod vs. Combo – Combos save money but may have lower-quality reels.
✔ Action & Flex – Medium-fast action is versatile for most anglers.
✔ Warranty – Redington offers a limited lifetime warranty.
✔ Try Before You Buy – Test casting different weights if possible.
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FAQ: Common Questions About Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rods
Q1: Is the Crosswater CW7 good for beginners?
A: Yes! It’s easy to cast and comes in affordable combos.
Q2: Can I use the CW8 in saltwater?
A: Light saltwater use is fine, but rinse it after each trip.
Q3: What’s the difference between 2-piece and 4-piece models?
A: 4-piece rods are more portable but may feel slightly less rigid.
Q4: Does the CW9 handle big fish well?
A: Yes, it’s designed for larger freshwater and saltwater species.
Q5: Is the included fly line good quality?
A: The standard line is decent, but upgrading improves performance.
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Final Thoughts & Where to Buy
The Redington Crosswater CW7/8/9 Fly Rod series offers excellent value for anglers at all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or need a reliable backup rod, there’s a Crosswater model to fit your needs.
Ready to make your next catch? Check out the latest deals on Redington Crosswater rods at trusted retailers like Amazon, REI, or Redington’s official website. Tight lines! 🎣
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