Waterworks-Lamson Litespeed F 4/5/6 Fly Reel Review
Updated: Jun 29, 2022
Intro/Specs/Craftsmanship
I have always viewed Waterworks-Lamson as one of the more innovative—or even daring—companies in fly fishing. Constantly thinking outside the box, their products often push the envelope of design and really set themselves apart from many others on the market. For example, remember the Center Axis integrated rod/reel they introduced a few years back? It doesn't get much more unique than that!
The new Litespeed F marks the sixth generation (where has the time gone?!) of the popular series. These reels are redesigned from the ground up and offer significant improvements in looks and function. So let's dig in deeper and take a closer look at my personal 4/5/6 model to critique its build quality and performance!
Reel Size: 4/5/6
Measured Weight: 3.65 ounces
Diameter: 3.75 inches
Spool Width: 1 inch
Machined/Cast: Machined
Arbor: Ultra-large
Backing Capacity (20 lb): WF6F / 125 yards
Drag Type: Conical (sealed)
Tested Max Drag: Approx 5 pounds
Spool Release: Pull apart
Reel Pouch Included: Yes
R/L Interchangeable: Yes
Spare Spool: $259.99
Available Colors: Fuego and Whiskey (tested)
Reel Price: $529.99
Fully machined and featuring an extremely open, airy design, the new Litespeed F is easily one of the most gorgeous reels I've ever owned. It's available in Fuego or Whiskey color schemes, the latter of which I purchased. The reel looks stunning in pictures but indeed looks even better in person!
I love a lightweight fly reel, especially for lighter line weights. The new F is larger in diameter than the now-discontinued G5 Litespeed, but weight has actually been reduced. To compare some of the specs (F vs. G5): diameter (inches) 3.75" vs. 3.63"; width 1.0" vs. 1.03"; weight (ounces) 3.65 vs. 4.19. Not only is the reel what I'd call an ideal size for its given line ratings, but it is now also one of the lightest reels available, period.
With this premium reel, I expected the build quality to be immaculate and precise. I'm happy to report that my Litespeed F indeed lives up to expectations by sporting tight tolerances, clean, smooth surfaces, and no harsh or sharp angles to the touch—two thumbs up!
Fishing/Testing
The drag system is comprised of Waterworks-Lamson's unique conical system, which generates friction from a pair of cones rather than typical round washers. You can check this out for a little more explanation of this proven drag system. But, all that aside, how does it function?
There's no better word to describe the drag other than smooth. No matter the setting, the drag kicks in without any blip of startup inertia and stays buttery as the line flows off the spool. This year, additions to the drag system include re-engineered drag seals for an even higher level of protection against grit and water. I've hardly torture-tested the reel thus far, but after several dunkings, the drag still operates perfectly.
Adjustment of the drag knob is easy due to its nice size, outer texturing, and the fact that it's not set into the frame very deep. The knob goes from zero to full drag in about two complete revolutions, and there are soft clicks/indents for each level of drag tension. Thanks to a new spring set, drag tension is accurate and linear throughout the various settings. While there's a hard stop on the bottom end of the drag knob's range, maxing out the reel takes a bit of muscle to force those last few clicks.
Incoming and outgoing clicks are modestly loud and exhibit a quality tone. The reel handle is on the basic side, but it's a perfect size and taper for maximum comfort. One thing I love most about the reel is that there's no slop to it. The frame and spool are bound together with a tight, precise feel, while the handle is equally as solid on its post. When cranking, this makes for an increasingly refined feel. For rapidly regaining loose line, the spool will also spin several times when quickly "slapped" on the rim.
Speaking of retrieving line, the F has a speedy pickup thanks to its 1-inch width and generous 3.75-inch diameter. Going by diameter alone, it surpasses other similar reels such as the Nautilus XM 4/5 (3.5 inches), Abel VAYA 5/6 (3.62 inches), and Galvan Torque T-5 (3.5 inches). However, the Ross Evolution LTX 5/6 beats it at 3.83 inches. Without checking every reel in existence, it's safe to say the Litespeed F is on the larger side.
Thanks to the "pull-apart" design of the spool and frame, no levers, tools, or buttons are involved when separating or joining them. The lack of any mechanism gives the reel an ultra-clean appearance and lets that cool "ninja star" (as I call it) at the spool's center stand out.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a premium trout-sized reel that's lightweight and performs at a high level, this one gets a big recommendation from me. While companies can sometimes disappoint or even downright fail when it comes to successfully improving a product, Waterworks-Lamson brought their A-game with the new Litespeed F!
Support Demystifly by Shopping Litespeed F Fly Reels at
