The ECHO composite large arbor reel is manufactured in Denmark to rigid quality standards by one of Europe's premier reel makers. The large arbor design picks up line faster than standard reels and includes stainless steel and anodized components to help make it impervious to the harsh conditions found in rivers and oceans. The composite material used in the spool and body has an exceptional weight to strength ratio and includes graphite fibers to help resist impact better than metal reels. The ECHO reels give you exceptional long-lasting performance for an incredible price.
On the Water:
I received two Echo fly reels in May of 2006. I first used the reels as past of my testing for the new Airflo fly lines. The first feature that got my attention was the light weight. After several hours of casting fly lines, the light weight and resulting good balance, did not leave my arm or shoulder in discomfort. My good experience with the line testing convinced me to use them on my charter boat and observe the performance and record remarks made by my clients who would use them. Every one of my clients shared at least one common remark; wow, this reel is so light in my hand. Other comments were; Is this reel expensive(?) and I would inform them, no, it’s less than $70 bucks, and they would say; where can I get one!
Throughout the early spring and summer no less than a few hundred fish were landed with the Echo reels without any mechanical problems. I am always diligent about equipment maintenance and flush my reels and rods with copious amounts of fresh water after each outing. And on a regular basis, inspect and lube the drag and clutch assembly.
The Echo 6/9 weight reels are designed for medium sized gamefish and as such, the small SS/Teflon washer disc drag system does not allow for an infinite resistance range, but is sufficient to handle stripers and blues up to 20 pounds. Anything larger required “palming” the spool.
Overall, I have been pleased with the Echo reels and will continue using them as I get into the Fall salmon and steelhead season. I fully expect the reels to perform equally well in the freshwater environment as they have in the salt.
Echo 6/9 Specifications
Line capacity
WF8 w/20lb - 175 yds.
Line Weight
For use with lines 6-9 wt
Weight
5.6 oz
Spool width
1 1/8"
Diameter
3.90"
Material
Graphite Fiber
MSRP
$69.95 reel, $39.95 for spool
Echo 6/9
Performance
I have used (2) Echo reels most all of this summer on my charter boat without mechanical problems. Many of my clients remarked about the light weight and price.The disc drag resistance range is somewhat limited and at times too light for hard running large fish.
4.2
Price
This reel at $69.95 is within everyones budget.
4.7
Features and Construction
Teflon/SS disc drag washers, sealed bearings, no slip clutch, easy right/left hand conversion, low maintenance and anodized parts.
4.3
Application
The Echo 6/9 fly reels are well suited to fishing in fresh or saltwater environments for medium sized species.
4.3
Score:1-5(5=highest)
Total Score
4.375
Plus
Minus
Quality
Price
Conclusion:
The overall design and mfg quality are very good and at the low sticker price, a “reel” good deal!
