Fenix HP25R V2 Review: The Ultimate Head Torch for Night Fishing
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Night fishing demands reliable, powerful lighting — and the Fenix HP25R V2 1600 Lumen Head Torch (£128.20) is built to deliver exactly that. Whether you're casting into darkness, tying rigs at 2am, or navigating a slippery riverbank, this headlamp sets the benchmark for serious anglers.
Night fishing demands reliable, powerful lighting — and the Fenix HP25R V2 1600 Lumen Head Torch (£128.20) is built to deliver exactly that. Whether you're casting into darkness, tying rigs at 2am, or navigating a slippery riverbank, this headlamp sets the benchmark for serious anglers.
Why the HP25R V2 Stands Out
The HP25R V2 sits at the top of Fenix's single lithium battery headlamp range — and it earns that position. The headline figure is 1,600 lumens, but what really impresses is how it sustains that output. Precision-engineered heat transfer from the LEDs into a cast aluminium head unit means the lamp doesn't throttle down after a few minutes like cheaper alternatives.
The rear-mounted 5,000mAh 21700 battery is a game-changer for anglers. It shifts the weight to the back of your head, dramatically improving balance and comfort during long sessions. It charges via USB-C in just 4 hours — the same cable as your phone.
Three LEDs, One Headlamp
The HP25R V2 features three independent LEDs:
- Main beam – high-powered spot for distance and navigation
- Flood beam – wide, even light for close-up tasks like baiting hooks or reading a bite alarm
- Red beam – preserves your night vision and avoids spooking fish
Each beam has its own switch and can be used individually or combined. For night fishing, the red mode alone is worth the price of admission.
Built for the Bank
Anglers don't fish in ideal conditions — and the HP25R V2 doesn't pretend otherwise:
- IP66 weatherproof — handles rain, spray, and condensation
- -35°C to +45°C operating range — from winter carp sessions to summer sea fishing
- 2m impact tested — survives drops on rocky ground
- 60° tilt mechanism — angle the beam exactly where you need it
- Dual lock-out (electronic + physical cover) — no accidental activation in your bag
- Reflective strips on the headband and battery box — added visibility on dark banks
- 4 helmet attachment hooks included — useful for boat anglers
Battery Flexibility
The HP25R V2 ships with a 21700 5,000mAh battery, but it can also run on an 18650 cell using the optional ALF-18 adapter — handy if you already have 18650 batteries in your kit.
Who Is It For?
The HP25R V2 is ideal for:
- Night carp anglers who need sustained brightness over long sessions
- Sea anglers fishing from rocks, piers, or beaches after dark
- Lure anglers who need a reliable, hands-free light for working lures and unhooking fish
- Outdoor enthusiasts — hiking, camping, and trail running
Also Worth Considering
If you're comparing options within the Fenix headlamp range, these are all in stock and worth a look:
- Fenix HM71R 2700 Lumen Headlamp – steps up to 2,700 lumens for maximum output; ideal for demanding conditions
- Fenix HM65R Shadow Master Headlamp – dual-beam with a compact form factor, great all-rounder for fishing and outdoors
- Fenix HM60R 1200 Lumen Headlamp – a step down in output but still very capable, and a solid mid-range choice
- Fenix HM60R Camo Carp Fishing Edition – same performance as the HM60R but purpose-built for carp and field sports anglers
Verdict
The Fenix HP25R V2 is a premium headlamp that justifies its price. The combination of sustained 1,600-lumen output, rear-mounted battery balance, IP66 weatherproofing, and USB-C charging makes it one of the best head torches available for serious night anglers. At £128.20, it's an investment — but one that will last seasons.
