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Waterworks-Lamson introduced the new version of the Litespeed for 2012 and we think this reel just keeps getting better and better.  Although most of the reel stayed the same as the previous version, a sleeker design, a different drag knob, and an integrated counterbalance to the reel handle are noteworthy changes.  The spools/reels of the new Litespeed are also compatible with the spools/reels of the previous Litespeed.

The Waterworks-Lamson Litespeed reel has been a long-time favorite among hardcore anglers. It is a great looking reel, but that just may be its least impressive feature. The Litespeed is a true larger arbor reel with ultimate retrieve speed. It's finish, called Hard Alox, is so tough it is unlike anything we have seen in reels in the past. At the heart of the Litespeed is a stainless steel roller clutch that engages instantly when the fish runs for cover. Add to this a conical drag element for an exceptionally smooth drag and then close the entire internal workings of the reel into a sealed housing to keep out water and sand. You are left with a sleek, extremely lightweight, dependable reel that delivers incredible performance at a very reasonable price point. We love this reel in every size, from the size 1 for 2- and 3-weight rods to the size 4 for Spey rods or on a 12-weight for tuna.

For more details on the Litespeed, please see Waterworks-Lamson's description below.

All reel capacities on the following chart are based on floating lines and 20 lb. backing except the Litespeed 3.5X and the Litespeed 4, which are based on 30 lb. backing.

• 1

  Spool Width

  1.10"

  Diameter

  3.25"

  Weight

  3.45 oz.

  Line Size

  1-3 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF3+50

• 1.5

  Spool Width

  1.10"

  Diameter

  3.25"

  Weight

  3.45 oz.

  Line Size

  3-5 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF4+100

• 2

  Spool Width

  1.10"

  Diameter

  3.50"

  Weight

  3.70 oz.

  Line Size

  4-6 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF6+100

• 3

  Spool Width

  1.25"

  Diameter

  3.75"

  Weight

  4.70 oz.

  Line Size

  6-8 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF7+150

• 3x

  Spool Width

  1.25"

  Diameter

  3.75"

  Weight

  4.70 oz.

  Line Size

  8 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF8+225

• 3.5

  Spool Width

  1.38"

  Diameter

  4.00"

  Weight

  5.40 oz.

  Line Size

  8-9 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF9+200

• 3.5x

  Spool Width

  1.38"

  Diameter

  4.00"

  Weight

  5.30 oz.

  Line Size

  9 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF9+250

• 4

  Spool Width

  1.50"

  Diameter

  4.50"

  Weight

  8.05 oz.

  Line Size

  10-11 wt

  Capacity (yds)

  WF10+250

Here is what Waterworks-Lamson has to say about their Litespeed reels:

The new Lamson Litespeed Hard Alox™ is a true large arbor reel with the same fully-sealed drag system that is used in the Waterworks ULA. Like the ULA, the Litespeed Alox is machined in the U.S. from barstock aluminum. By utilizing a more traditional structural design and foregoing the use of titanium we are able to offer a very fine, high performance large arbor reel at a value you would expect from Lamson. Lighter without sacrificing strength, the new Lightspeed Hard Alox will come in a close second to a corresponding Force reel in terms of retrieve rate and weight, and each shares our patented maintenance-free super smooth conical drag.