Hatch Outdoors – Iconic 9 Plus Fly Reel
Kerry Willcox The Hatch Outdoors Iconic 9 Plus Fly Reel is a high-performance, large-arbor fly reel designed for serious anglers targeting big fish, particularly in saltwater or heavy freshwater applications. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its features and why it stands out:
Key Features:
1. Durable Construction
– Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum for lightweight strength.
– Ceramic drag system (Hatch’s “Power Matrix” design) provides smooth, consistent drag even under heavy loads.
– Sealed stainless steel bearings for corrosion resistance (critical for saltwater use).
2. Drag Performance
– Up to 25 lbs of drag pressure (adjustable via a sealed, infinite-click knob).
– Instant anti-reverse (no backplay) for quick hooksets.
3. Large Arbor Design
– Faster line retrieval and reduced line memory.
– 9+ size balances capacity with weight (holds 9–12 wt lines with backing).
4. User-Friendly Design
– Tool-free disassembly for easy maintenance.
– Ambidextrous (convertible left/right retrieve).
– Distinctive Hatch aesthetics (sleek, modern look with signature anodized colors).
5. Saltwater Ready
– Fully sealed drag and internals to resist sand, grit, and saltwater corrosion.
Ideal Use Cases:
– Saltwater species: Tarpon, permit, bonefish, GT, tuna.
– Big freshwater game: Steelhead, salmon, large trout, pike/muskie.
– Offshore/surf casting where high drag and durability are critical.
Competitors & Comparisons:
– Tibor Everglades: Similar saltwater focus but heavier; Hatch offers smoother drag.
– Nautilus NV-G: Comparable drag performance, but Hatch has a more robust build.
– Lamson Litespeed: More affordable but lacks the drag power of the Iconic 9+.
Pros & Cons:
– Pros: Ultra-smooth drag, bombproof construction, easy maintenance, stylish.
– Cons: Expensive (retails ~$800–$900), slightly heavier than some competitors.
Final Verdict:
The Hatch Iconic 9 Plus is a top-tier reel for anglers who demand reliability and power in extreme conditions. If you’re chasing hard-fighting fish and need a reel that won’t fail, it’s worth the investment.
Would you like recommendations for matching rods or line setups?