I've been looking at getting new rods. And I've been thinking about the ones I've had in the past. The best ones I've had and regret selling where a pair of 12 foot 2 half test cure Bruce Ashby mirage rods. That won't an expensive rod as such at the time. But what a great rod. I've had more expensive rods which where ment to be better. But still don't some how match up to my old Ashby rods.
In reply to Post #1
3lb harrison chimeras
3lb harrison chimeras
In reply to Post #2
Harrison Ballista 12'6 3.5tc for range. Mk1 Daiwa Powermesh 11ft 2.25tc for short range/small waters.
I sold the Harrison's and regret it. Currently using Mk3 Hearn classics and yet to really put them through their paces.
Harrison Ballista 12'6 3.5tc for range. Mk1 Daiwa Powermesh 11ft 2.25tc for short range/small waters.
I sold the Harrison's and regret it. Currently using Mk3 Hearn classics and yet to really put them through their paces.
Well I have to admit to a bit of addiction to the old esp vertex rods, I've had them in various test curves and lengths, and I still use as my first choice rod the 3lb 12 foot version. I have looked at several much newer rods, harrison, free spirit and century but none come with the stiff butt and sensitive tip of the vertex, at least not in the lower test curves. Cannot see me changing now, getting to old.
2.75 century ng proper players rods
The 2.75lb t/c century C2s that I use now are probably the best overall.
A close second and by far the best value for money was a pair of berkley B3 MR rods - fantastic rods for the mpney and the funky reel seat made them stand out.
A close second and by far the best value for money was a pair of berkley B3 MR rods - fantastic rods for the mpney and the funky reel seat made them stand out.
In reply to Post #4
Another one for the Vertex's.
I too have had various TC's but for all round I like the 3.25TC's in 12' 9” length.
I had a thinning out about 4 years ago. My Hi S 3.5 50mm rung rods were sold and it didn't bother me in the slightest but I kept my 5 Vertex's
I've been looking for a single, pair , or set of three 3.75's for ages to complete my needs.
Anyone????
Another one for the Vertex's.
I too have had various TC's but for all round I like the 3.25TC's in 12' 9” length.
I had a thinning out about 4 years ago. My Hi S 3.5 50mm rung rods were sold and it didn't bother me in the slightest but I kept my 5 Vertex's
I've been looking for a single, pair , or set of three 3.75's for ages to complete my needs.
Anyone????
In reply to Post #1
Century NG 3.5lb cracking set was my biggest regret after I'd sold them
Century NG 3.5lb cracking set was my biggest regret after I'd sold them
Daiwa Akn 12su , 12ft 2,5lb. such a beautyful rod in eyery way
In reply to Post #9
Original Infinity 3.5LD.
Original Infinity 3.5LD.
In reply to Post #1
Harrison, loved my ballistas and now have aviator flex which are awesome
Harrison, loved my ballistas and now have aviator flex which are awesome
I know a couple of lads who still have and use their old rods. One has the magnum tapers in 3 1/2 test and the other is using some very old 3 1/2 NGs which proves, if it not broke don't fix it.
Ive had loads of rods predominantly by fishing different waters and fancying a change, nothing ventured, nothing gained. Out of all the rods, two I could keep forever after trying a few would be:
ESP Vertex. Had these for quite a few years, coupled with my infinity reels, just a joy to use. Loved the action, perfect for me, I hate through action, classic loops. Nice to play fish on, liked the handle, they just felt nice in the hand and with fish on. The only thing I was not keen on was the single legged guides on the tip but I am in no doubt these helped with the action
Free Spirit HiS 3 1/2lb with 50mm ringing. I've had the 40s and I found them a bit too stiff. Again, joy to use, similar to above, fantastic casting and playing action, as good as an all rounder could be for me, minimal bling, loved the tapered butt handle. Just not a massive fan of 50mm ringing
Been using some Century ADV1s in 3 1/4 test for last few years, very, very nice rods if I honest
Ive had loads of rods predominantly by fishing different waters and fancying a change, nothing ventured, nothing gained. Out of all the rods, two I could keep forever after trying a few would be:
ESP Vertex. Had these for quite a few years, coupled with my infinity reels, just a joy to use. Loved the action, perfect for me, I hate through action, classic loops. Nice to play fish on, liked the handle, they just felt nice in the hand and with fish on. The only thing I was not keen on was the single legged guides on the tip but I am in no doubt these helped with the action
Free Spirit HiS 3 1/2lb with 50mm ringing. I've had the 40s and I found them a bit too stiff. Again, joy to use, similar to above, fantastic casting and playing action, as good as an all rounder could be for me, minimal bling, loved the tapered butt handle. Just not a massive fan of 50mm ringing
Been using some Century ADV1s in 3 1/4 test for last few years, very, very nice rods if I honest
In reply to Post #12
Another vote for the Vortex 3lb. Will never sell mine.
Another vote for the Vortex 3lb. Will never sell mine.
In reply to Post #13
Vertex or Vortex??? Two different rods.
The Vertex is the old original ESP distance rod, not to be confused with the newer range of rods (including Vertex named coarse or match fishing feeder rods)
The Vortex is, I believe, a Shimano rod.
Typo or wrong rod?
Still if it's your favourite then it can't be the ‘wrong' rod
Vertex or Vortex??? Two different rods.
The Vertex is the old original ESP distance rod, not to be confused with the newer range of rods (including Vertex named coarse or match fishing feeder rods)
The Vortex is, I believe, a Shimano rod.
Typo or wrong rod?
Still if it's your favourite then it can't be the ‘wrong' rod
Daiwa AKNs. Amorphous. Still use them, lovely action rods.
Having owned dozens of rods over the last thirty years in my opinion Century and Harrison make the best carp rods.
However I don't think you have to pay an obscene amount of money for a good quality carp rod.
Having owned dozens of rods over the last thirty years in my opinion Century and Harrison make the best carp rods.
However I don't think you have to pay an obscene amount of money for a good quality carp rod.
In reply to Post #1
Harrison torrix 2 3/4lb t.c 12ft 40 mm ringing. What a fish playing tool!!!!
Harrison torrix 2 3/4lb t.c 12ft 40 mm ringing. What a fish playing tool!!!!
In reply to Post #1
Daiwa AKN 12H 2.75 Amorphous
and I Still use them no need ever to change them just perfection
and I also use Century NG`s 2.75lb
Daiwa AKN 12H 2.75 Amorphous
and I Still use them no need ever to change them just perfection
and I also use Century NG`s 2.75lb
Freespirit Hi s ives
Century 13ft 3lb tc NGs
Jack of all trades 👍
Jack of all trades 👍
Baby ballista 11ft 3lb t.c quality
12ft accurix superb fish playing tools
13ft 4lb ballista for big loch piking can hook fish 20 yards out without pulling hooks superb blanks
Original wychwood maximiser 12ft 3lb spd self builds , these were as good as anything i have used .
12ft accurix superb fish playing tools
13ft 4lb ballista for big loch piking can hook fish 20 yards out without pulling hooks superb blanks
Original wychwood maximiser 12ft 3lb spd self builds , these were as good as anything i have used .
In reply to Post #20
Probably my old Century Armalites 12ft 2.75lb TC , they chucked every weight you could load them up with , ram raider rods they were , awesome.
Probably my old Century Armalites 12ft 2.75lb TC , they chucked every weight you could load them up with , ram raider rods they were , awesome.
In reply to Post #10
Same as that, plus the 2.75lb. Not used owt else in 12ft for over 20yr and that won't change anytime soon.
Same as that, plus the 2.75lb. Not used owt else in 12ft for over 20yr and that won't change anytime soon.
In reply to Post #14
Doh. Vertex.
Doh. Vertex.
Original 13ft Nash pursuits 2.75lb were up the with the best I've ever used. Talk about punching out a 3oz lead! 
In reply to Post #24
Free spirit Xs corks 👍
Free spirit Xs corks 👍
In reply to Post #20
Another vote for the original SPD Maximiser blanks.....2.5lb version the best players rod I have used. I have had rods from all the big names Free Spirit, Harrison etc but these are special. Super accurate, no tip bounce and a lovely action.
Another vote for the original SPD Maximiser blanks.....2.5lb version the best players rod I have used. I have had rods from all the big names Free Spirit, Harrison etc but these are special. Super accurate, no tip bounce and a lovely action.
In reply to Post #1
Davis tackle avon special
Davis tackle avon special
Difficult choice between any of the Century rods I have owned:
Armalite mk.l 2.25lb
mk.ll 2.75lb
SP's in 2.75lb
NG's in 2.75lb
All a good rod to play fish on, and the SP's could push a 3oz lead a long, long way.
Armalite mk.l 2.25lb
mk.ll 2.75lb
SP's in 2.75lb
NG's in 2.75lb
All a good rod to play fish on, and the SP's could push a 3oz lead a long, long way.
In reply to Post #1
I'd never really owned "quality" rods before, but about 5 or 6 years ago I managed to pick up a set of 3 Free Spirit TS 11 footers. I absolutely loved them. About a year or so later I ran into financial difficulties and had to sell them.
As soon as I got back on my feet I went out and brought another 3 brand new. I still have them and will never sell them again. They are fantastic rods. I only ever fish with 11' rods, and the market is pretty limited for this length.
I'd never really owned "quality" rods before, but about 5 or 6 years ago I managed to pick up a set of 3 Free Spirit TS 11 footers. I absolutely loved them. About a year or so later I ran into financial difficulties and had to sell them.
As soon as I got back on my feet I went out and brought another 3 brand new. I still have them and will never sell them again. They are fantastic rods. I only ever fish with 11' rods, and the market is pretty limited for this length.
In reply to Post #20
Currently using the original wychwood SPD 2.5lb TC rods, love them. Had a set years ago but sold them, missed them, so searched for another set. 8 months later, I'm using them weekly.
Currently using the original wychwood SPD 2.5lb TC rods, love them. Had a set years ago but sold them, missed them, so searched for another set. 8 months later, I'm using them weekly.
In reply to Post #30
Original Daiwa Infinity X 12ft 2.75lbtc LD's were incredible rods. Always on the lookout for a decent set to have rebuilt as a little project (if anyone knows anyone selling any, or the 3.5lb's then I'll have them!)
Original Daiwa Infinity X 12ft 2.75lbtc LD's were incredible rods. Always on the lookout for a decent set to have rebuilt as a little project (if anyone knows anyone selling any, or the 3.5lb's then I'll have them!)
I have 3 left from 4 Wychwood Maximiser SPD's in 2.75, lovely rods.
Of all the rods I have owned 2.75 NG stands out the most, such a lovely rod to play fish on!!
In reply to Post #22
I used the 13' 3lb LD infinity x until trading them in for a set of 3.5 ESP Vertex, I was using big bags at the time. Both great fishing rods.
I used the 13' 3lb LD infinity x until trading them in for a set of 3.5 ESP Vertex, I was using big bags at the time. Both great fishing rods.
Depends on the era, early 80's KM1 from Simpson's of Turnford after fibre glass a major difference in casting and playing fish. Early 2000 Century NG 2.75tc fantastic players rods then lately Free Spirit 12.6 3.5tc Hi-s no one rod especially with changing technology
Michael
Michael
I've got a set of century focal system 12 foot 3lb test curve. Had them about 8 years. Still a very good rod. Very good for bag work. And chucking leads out at distance. But very fergiving rod for margin rod and playing fish under the rod tip. I'm now looking for new rods but don't really no what I won't
Century NCS 3.25 12ft , probably my favourite along with my Ballista 2.75 for closer work
In reply to Post #30
Where they mine ?
Where they mine ?
In reply to Post #38
Dont think so mate, bought them off carpyclarky on here
Dont think so mate, bought them off carpyclarky on here
In reply to Post #39
Yep i sold them to him 👍Think i had about 12 sets of factory build and around 50 blanks at one point.
Yep i sold them to him 👍Think i had about 12 sets of factory build and around 50 blanks at one point.
In reply to Post #40
best rods i ever owned rod hutchinson 12ft 2 1/2 tc horissions in 1991 ,were the bolloxs
best rods i ever owned rod hutchinson 12ft 2 1/2 tc horissions in 1991 ,were the bolloxs
In reply to Post #41
I had these in 2.75, still got one, pretty sure they are the amorphous akns, asked on another forum and put a photo up,and the opinion was they were definitely the 2.75 akns.
All the same, best rods ive had in 40 years
I had these in 2.75, still got one, pretty sure they are the amorphous akns, asked on another forum and put a photo up,and the opinion was they were definitely the 2.75 akns.
All the same, best rods ive had in 40 years
In reply to Post #42
3 AKN 12hs 2.75 TC ...And now 3 original Infinity Xs LD 3.5 TC ....Both fab and will never be bettered imho.....
3 AKN 12hs 2.75 TC ...And now 3 original Infinity Xs LD 3.5 TC ....Both fab and will never be bettered imho.....
Strange how it's predominantly older rods and not always the mega expensive rods that are being mentioned 
Hmmmmm....interesting
Hmmmmm....interesting
In reply to Post #44
Moral of the story... New rods don't necessarily make you enjoy your fishing more! Get out and make memories/catch PBs/enjoy nature etc. with your old rods.
Moral of the story... New rods don't necessarily make you enjoy your fishing more! Get out and make memories/catch PBs/enjoy nature etc. with your old rods.
Only one rod makes me truly happy, having said that it has got me into trouble a few times.
In reply to Post #46
was waiting for that
was waiting for that
Ive had stacks of good rods over the years but theres only one rod that i class as the best rod ive owned and and that was my shimano antares specialist rod.
My old overfit north western kevlites or my amporphous 12ft 2.75. Hard to choose between them really, the north westerns have a lovely through action.
In reply to Post #12
I agree with you Chris on ADV1 3 1/4 rods (I know Josh never liked them). To me they are great medium range rods. I have a set of 3lb graphene Century rods they are good for close range then Harrison 13' aviator plus for long range.
To my idea mine are are great for me.
Those old Diawa power mesh rods took some beating - I only had Avon version but they were good.
I agree with you Chris on ADV1 3 1/4 rods (I know Josh never liked them). To me they are great medium range rods. I have a set of 3lb graphene Century rods they are good for close range then Harrison 13' aviator plus for long range.
To my idea mine are are great for me.
Those old Diawa power mesh rods took some beating - I only had Avon version but they were good.
In reply to Post #49
Lovely rods the kevlites, had a 1.5lb t/c one.
Lovely rods the kevlites, had a 1.5lb t/c one.
I have the following still in use...
Century NG (NOT NG+)
12ft 3.5lb
12ft 2.25lb
Harrison
Accurix 12ft 3lb
all excellent rods. My favorite, probably the NG 2.25. the playing action on these is something else!
Just had the Accurix made for me - 3 fish in on these and I am loving them, I suspect these will run the NG 2.25 very close.. very very nice rods o use.
Not in use.
Daiwa Pro Carbon Carp 11ft 2.75lb - My first ever rods - spaghetti hoops! but great fun to use. I had these recently rebuilt with 30mm rings - 8 eyes in total, they bend through the corks!
Daiwa Whisker Kevlar 12ft 2.75lb - IIRC - I have not used these as much as I should do. I should maybe change that..
Century NG (NOT NG+)
12ft 3.5lb
12ft 2.25lb
Harrison
Accurix 12ft 3lb
all excellent rods. My favorite, probably the NG 2.25. the playing action on these is something else!
Just had the Accurix made for me - 3 fish in on these and I am loving them, I suspect these will run the NG 2.25 very close.. very very nice rods o use.
Not in use.
Daiwa Pro Carbon Carp 11ft 2.75lb - My first ever rods - spaghetti hoops! but great fun to use. I had these recently rebuilt with 30mm rings - 8 eyes in total, they bend through the corks!
Daiwa Whisker Kevlar 12ft 2.75lb - IIRC - I have not used these as much as I should do. I should maybe change that..
In reply to Post #52
Ahhh, those Daiwa Pro Carbon Carp rods, I had a set of 3 11ft 2.25lb tc rods which I used on the thames for carp. Lovely light rods and yes they did bend!!!
Ahhh, those Daiwa Pro Carbon Carp rods, I had a set of 3 11ft 2.25lb tc rods which I used on the thames for carp. Lovely light rods and yes they did bend!!!
I bought a set of inline rods from Daiwa, no rings just a hole near the reel which you threaded the line then a small ball at the tip. The line travelled through the blank.They felt ok to cast but as soon a you got weed in the tip they were useless. No wonder that idea never caught on.
Forgot about my Sabres lovely rods.
Forgot about my Sabres lovely rods.
In reply to Post #54
Interline, the sea fishing one for multiplier use were appalling but you didn't need to buy them to know that.
Interline, the sea fishing one for multiplier use were appalling but you didn't need to buy them to know that.
My old Free Spirit ES's are up there for me. Though my new ECU Empera's are shaping up nicely.
In reply to Post #57
Tart Beautiful looking rods those ECUs.
Tart
Beautiful looking rods those ECUs.
In reply to Post #16
I have a set of 12' torrix in 2.5 TC and agree they are superb rods for playing fish just enough grunt to turn a decent fish is needed.
However I wish my KM challenger 1s where not stolen as they where my favourite, could put a baited rig 150 yards. The Challenger 2 was dreadful in comparison.
I have a set of 12' torrix in 2.5 TC and agree they are superb rods for playing fish just enough grunt to turn a decent fish is needed.
However I wish my KM challenger 1s where not stolen as they where my favourite, could put a baited rig 150 yards. The Challenger 2 was dreadful in comparison.
I have a set of 3 Nick Buss 3.25 Custom built Century rods, absolutely what I require for all of my fishing now. I can not imagine me parting with these at any time in the coming years
I've had a set of 3 AKN12H's for 22 years now, I had them rebuilt a number of years ago & I could never part with them.
I have other sets of rods which get used a lot more, but the main reason is the thought of damaging my 'Morphs'...
I have other sets of rods which get used a lot more, but the main reason is the thought of damaging my 'Morphs'...
I've never really had any high end rods but my favourites were free spirit e class golds 12ft 3.25lb
Found them great for casting and playing fish.
Found them great for casting and playing fish.
Harrison chimeras are probably my favourite general use carp rods, with the Harrison multi carp being the best rod I've used for centrepin carping
In reply to Post #29
when the used daiwa powermesh 11ft 2.25lb spigots give up i will be in the market for something similar or the 11ft KS (but jesus they cost alot haha)
or more likely the chub 2.25
when the used daiwa powermesh 11ft 2.25lb spigots give up i will be in the market for something similar or the 11ft KS (but jesus they cost alot haha)
or more likely the chub 2.25
In reply to Post #44
And the lighter test curves which will be more of a joy to play fish on than most of the pokers people are now using
I'm sure carbon technology and rod design will have moved on a long way by now. Saying that, I would say Century were ahead of the game at the time, NGs 
And the lighter test curves which will be more of a joy to play fish on than most of the pokers people are now using
I'm sure carbon technology and rod design will have moved on a long way by now. Saying that, I would say Century were ahead of the game at the time, NGs
In reply to Post #65
It's the thicker walled carbon that's more akin to fish playing as the blanks have far more stretch as opposed to 'locking up' like modern thin walled, lighter carbon blanks.
My old 2.5 tips off my AK47's have been turned into 8.25ft rods that just keep going and keep giving loads more power as I can handle the shorter lever better. Believe me, nothing that swims in fresh water would be able to swim away from me if I didn't want it to. Certainly no carp anyway...
It's the thicker walled carbon that's more akin to fish playing as the blanks have far more stretch as opposed to 'locking up' like modern thin walled, lighter carbon blanks.
My old 2.5 tips off my AK47's have been turned into 8.25ft rods that just keep going and keep giving loads more power as I can handle the shorter lever better. Believe me, nothing that swims in fresh water would be able to swim away from me if I didn't want it to. Certainly no carp anyway...
In reply to Post #66
I'm not sure on that one, as I understood it when I bought my chimeras over the accurix, s and hi s I tried, the thicker diameter of the blank afforded thinner walls, which meant the other slimmer blanks with thicker walls locked up where the chimera just kept bending
I'm not sure on that one, as I understood it when I bought my chimeras over the accurix, s and hi s I tried, the thicker diameter of the blank afforded thinner walls, which meant the other slimmer blanks with thicker walls locked up where the chimera just kept bending
In reply to Post #67
Just going off what Kev showed me mate to be honest.
It's certainly true with my old AK47s qhich had really thick walls carbon on compound tapers. I can certainly attest to that as I managed shatter one half way up the butt section on a cast.
Just going off what Kev showed me mate to be honest.
It's certainly true with my old AK47s qhich had really thick walls carbon on compound tapers. I can certainly attest to that as I managed shatter one half way up the butt section on a cast.
In reply to Post #68
I'd imagine there are lots of ways to get the same characteristics, but manufacturers seem to prioritise casting and recovery
I'd imagine there are lots of ways to get the same characteristics, but manufacturers seem to prioritise casting and recovery
First proper rods I owned were the Powermesh 12ft 1.25 lb tc.Stopped smoking and drinking to save up for them.Loved those rods until I happened to see a N.W Kevlite.I was blew away and had to have a set.
Back off the fags n beer. Ordered 3 to my spec and since then nothing has ever matched them.
Sold them on to a mate when I was ill,who still uses them.
Currently using a set of FS specialist gold and happy enough with them but I do miss the NW's.
Back off the fags n beer. Ordered 3 to my spec and since then nothing has ever matched them.
Sold them on to a mate when I was ill,who still uses them.
Currently using a set of FS specialist gold and happy enough with them but I do miss the NW's.
In reply to Post #60
Also have a set of custom Nick Buss X-Lites and they're probs my fave all-rounders too. Class rods
Also have a set of custom Nick Buss X-Lites and they're probs my fave all-rounders too. Class rods
In reply to Post #69
Yeah them Ak47s were lovely rods with the twin tips. Both blanks had a a through action and they are still going today in 3.5tc guise albeit built a bit different to how they left the factory. Brilliant for lobbing 6- 8oz bags out 80yds to a ton and a real through action..
Yeah them Ak47s were lovely rods with the twin tips. Both blanks had a a through action and they are still going today in 3.5tc guise albeit built a bit different to how they left the factory. Brilliant for lobbing 6- 8oz bags out 80yds to a ton and a real through action..
In reply to Post #72
Anyone mentioned the ESP Mk1/2 terry hearn rods? Had a set of Mk1's, sold them, missed them thus bought a set of Mk2's, lovely rods.
Anyone mentioned the ESP Mk1/2 terry hearn rods? Had a set of Mk1's, sold them, missed them thus bought a set of Mk2's, lovely rods.
In reply to Post #1
Anything from the Silstar range
Anything from the Silstar range
In reply to Post #74
I've still got a silstar rod. It was my 1st proper rod. Had it about 35 years or so. Still in very good condition. 12 foot. Think 1 and 3 quarter test curve. I only use it for float fishing these days but have had loads of carp on it back in the day. Had the old Mitchell 300s reel on it.
I've still got a silstar rod. It was my 1st proper rod. Had it about 35 years or so. Still in very good condition. 12 foot. Think 1 and 3 quarter test curve. I only use it for float fishing these days but have had loads of carp on it back in the day. Had the old Mitchell 300s reel on it.
In reply to Post #74
I feel sorry for you if a silstar rod is the best carp rod you have owned .
I feel sorry for you if a silstar rod is the best carp rod you have owned .
In reply to Post #76
Agreed. I had some old silstar power wind years back, they were lovely rods. But anywhere near as good as any of my harrison? Nah, not a chance
Agreed. I had some old silstar power wind years back, they were lovely rods. But anywhere near as good as any of my harrison? Nah, not a chance
In reply to Post #76
The best rods you've ever owned aren't always the best spec'd but maybe the most cherished.
My Sportex Carbon Kevlar 12ft 2.25lb custom made by Tony Fordham served me very well and I suppose they would be the best rods I've ever owned. They are now owned by another person who appreciates them
The best rods you've ever owned aren't always the best spec'd but maybe the most cherished.
My Sportex Carbon Kevlar 12ft 2.25lb custom made by Tony Fordham served me very well and I suppose they would be the best rods I've ever owned. They are now owned by another person who appreciates them
In reply to Post #78
I had one of those sportex I used for floater fishing, should never have sold it
I had one of those sportex I used for floater fishing, should never have sold it
In reply to Post #78
I had a pair of them passed them on to my brother who sold them when he emigrated. Lovely rods.
I had a pair of them passed them on to my brother who sold them when he emigrated. Lovely rods.
In reply to Post #76
That's what I thought
Didn't they do a more expensive range though at one point, cant remember
That's what I thought
Didn't they do a more expensive range though at one point, cant remember
In reply to Post #76
I was taking the piss but thanks for taking the bait, I wasn't expecting to catch anything during lockdown 😂👍
That said as Chopper says back in the day they were quite nice.
Fortunately I've managed with top end custom made for many years, Torrix probably being my favourite in recent years.
I was taking the piss but thanks for taking the bait, I wasn't expecting to catch anything during lockdown 😂👍
That said as Chopper says back in the day they were quite nice.
Fortunately I've managed with top end custom made for many years, Torrix probably being my favourite in recent years.
In reply to Post #78
I have got 4 brand new sportex kevlar blanks to build up 12ft 2.25t.c, really good rods.
Silstar traverse x if i remember rightly were the best they produced, i would rate them as ***** at best.
I have got 4 brand new sportex kevlar blanks to build up 12ft 2.25t.c, really good rods.
Silstar traverse x if i remember rightly were the best they produced, i would rate them as ***** at best.
Lol, I had a pair of Silstar Traverse X 11 ft 1.75-2.0 tc, they took all the abuse I gave them, 4oz+ leads the lot!
In reply to Post #82
I cant brag. I had some DAM Des Taylor carp rods in 2/14 tc at one time
I cant brag. I had some DAM Des Taylor carp rods in 2/14 tc at one time
First i had were north westerns i used to get alot of stick as everyone on the syndicate were using tri-cast ultra light and later arrowlite , i then moved onto armalite 2.25 and then thankfully found harrisons and have never looked back.
In reply to Post #85
Leave des out of this. The all rounder was a peach of a rod!
My favourite coarse rod would probably be a Harrison 4 piece Avon, had mid 30s on mine no sweat.
Leave des out of this. The all rounder was a peach of a rod!
My favourite coarse rod would probably be a Harrison 4 piece Avon, had mid 30s on mine no sweat.
Apart from the horrible reel seat I loved my Mk1 Free Spirit E-Class 2.75's.
In reply to Post #87
To be fair they were decent at the time, although a 2oz lead and cast had the blank virtually bursting
First time I ever suffered a hook pull with these because the rod was too stiff and I opened the hook up
To be fair they were decent at the time, although a 2oz lead and cast had the blank virtually bursting
First time I ever suffered a hook pull with these because the rod was too stiff and I opened the hook up
In reply to Post #85
I wonder how many on here will own up to getting a set up from Argos or for the old timers Woolworth's
I wonder how many on here will own up to getting a set up from Argos or for the old timers Woolworth's
In reply to Post #90
Yep the woolys kit with a short fibreglass rod as a kid, the boat angling club I belonged to in the ninety s had an annual comp that you could only use these kits which were then sold in a local tackle shop, you'd be amazed at some of the fish landed on those rods.
Yep the woolys kit with a short fibreglass rod as a kid, the boat angling club I belonged to in the ninety s had an annual comp that you could only use these kits which were then sold in a local tackle shop, you'd be amazed at some of the fish landed on those rods.
In reply to Post #91
Little six foot Black solid glass spinning rod perfectly balanced with an Intrepid black prince and 12lb sylcast. Could bend it in a circle. Players rod. Bought from the Anglers Mecca, everybody say Amen, in Padgate Lane 60 years ago. What more could anybody want. I really wish I still owned it.
Little six foot Black solid glass spinning rod perfectly balanced with an Intrepid black prince and 12lb sylcast. Could bend it in a circle. Players rod. Bought from the Anglers Mecca, everybody say Amen, in Padgate Lane 60 years ago. What more could anybody want. I really wish I still owned it.
In reply to Post #90
I had a woollies 10' leger rod in maroon glass, it wasn't a bad stick tbf. I think they were Shakespeare blanks and back then Shakespeare were a major player.
I couldn't afford a Roy Marlow "Persuader"....
I had a woollies 10' leger rod in maroon glass, it wasn't a bad stick tbf. I think they were Shakespeare blanks and back then Shakespeare were a major player.
I couldn't afford a Roy Marlow "Persuader"....
In reply to Post #90
Used to by hooks to nylon from Woolworths for fishing the local river as a kid
Think about it, shopping with your mother, bag of pick and mix and a bit of fishing tackle, what more could a kid want
Used to by hooks to nylon from Woolworths for fishing the local river as a kid
Think about it, shopping with your mother, bag of pick and mix and a bit of fishing tackle, what more could a kid want
In reply to Post #94
A woolys rod and reel kit, most of the kids I went with like me started with hand lines.
A woolys rod and reel kit, most of the kids I went with like me started with hand lines.
Toss up between a pair of 12ft /2.75 Power mesh Euro rods (from float fishing for carp under the tip to wanging out a 3.5 oz lead) and Fox 11ft 1lb specialist... Again ultra versatile.. Trotting a stick float.. Barbelling or floater fishing. They are like rocking horse doo doo. Can't remember last time I saw one for sale( having said that someone's bound to look on fleabay and tell me there's one avail!)
Just had a look at the Fox Specialist its not an 11 ft rod..its a 12 . Apologies for the mistake
Just had a look at the Fox Specialist its not an 11 ft rod..its a 12 . Apologies for the mistake
In reply to Post #96
Do you mean the fox kevlar specialist multi? They did a specimen version as well with 1.25tc and 1.75tc Avon tops and a 1.5tc with quivers.
Do you mean the fox kevlar specialist multi? They did a specimen version as well with 1.25tc and 1.75tc Avon tops and a 1.5tc with quivers.
In reply to Post #93
You're right, they were.
You're right, they were.
If talking carp rods then ESP Tectrix in 2.75lb
In reply to Post #95
The old glass rods were bullet proof
The reels were utter cheap crap. I got some Prince Royals, they were not too bad
The old glass rods were bullet proof
The reels were utter cheap crap. I got some Prince Royals, they were not too bad
In reply to Post #95
The good old days.
My very first rod would have been a "Winfield" special.
Didn't matter that it was crap, I was only pulling out Gudgeon anyway.
Can still remember the excitement of visiting my local Woolies to see, and drool over, their latest gear.
A friend of mine, who was a bit older, started work and bought a Daiwa leger rod.
He became a demi god in our eyes.
The good old days.
My very first rod would have been a "Winfield" special.
Didn't matter that it was crap, I was only pulling out Gudgeon anyway.
Can still remember the excitement of visiting my local Woolies to see, and drool over, their latest gear.
A friend of mine, who was a bit older, started work and bought a Daiwa leger rod.
He became a demi god in our eyes.
Probably not the best quality rods I've owned but my favourite rods are the original Shimano diaflash in 2.5tc with 30mm ringing, I love playing fish on them,
I've not had many sets of rods and tend to look after my equipment, I've just purchased new rods and my previous purchase of rods was circa 20 years prior.....
I don't like selling my stuff either as "they will come in handy" one day.....
I've not had many sets of rods and tend to look after my equipment, I've just purchased new rods and my previous purchase of rods was circa 20 years prior.....
I don't like selling my stuff either as "they will come in handy" one day.....
I wonder nobody mentioned Jim Gibbinson Eclipse. Still have a set of 3 12ft 2,25 brand new. Would never use them but still one of my favourite rods ever made. Had a another pair back in the days and had to sell them.....
In reply to Post #97
Hi Goose...Its much later than the Kevlars. Gorgeous bottle green blank. Twin tip..1 standard avon, rated 1lb tc. The other a full section with a spliced in 1oz? quiver tip.
Forgot I had a pair of Drennan Distance years ago.. Really liked them .. I landed my 1st 20's on them. IMO they were let down by a 30mm butt ring going down to something like an 8 or 10 at the tip.....Replacing the 30 with a 40 would have been a vast improvement I reckon
Hi Goose...Its much later than the Kevlars. Gorgeous bottle green blank. Twin tip..1 standard avon, rated 1lb tc. The other a full section with a spliced in 1oz? quiver tip.
Forgot I had a pair of Drennan Distance years ago.. Really liked them .. I landed my 1st 20's on them. IMO they were let down by a 30mm butt ring going down to something like an 8 or 10 at the tip.....Replacing the 30 with a 40 would have been a vast improvement I reckon
In reply to Post #103
Great rods but they were built on harrison blanks so no surprise.
Great rods but they were built on harrison blanks so no surprise.
In reply to Post #96
The 1lb TC Fox Specialist is still my favourite chubbing rod. I've got one that's like new in my collection that has accounted for both of my pb chub. It gets used but treated like a classic car lol.
Carp wise I've always had a soft spot for a Daiwa Infinity blank.
The 1lb TC Fox Specialist is still my favourite chubbing rod. I've got one that's like new in my collection that has accounted for both of my pb chub. It gets used but treated like a classic car lol.
Carp wise I've always had a soft spot for a Daiwa Infinity blank.
My favourite ive used is my John Wilson 2pc Avon quiver with the half duplon/cork handle. It's been a mainstay for over 20 years. Used for everything from noddy bashing, quiver tipping rivers, floater fishing, stalking, and float fishing for carp in the margins. Had a reel seat fitted by percys in Lewes when the reel rings wouldn't grip the blank and reel seat anymore. He did an excellent job. The Avon section creaks too much now that I only use the quivertip section for the aforementioned tactics. This has started creaking too so perhaps it's time for a change or needs re-ringing?
However the favourite I've used which is not mine was my brothers diawa Avon barbel rod. Unbelievable playing action. I will try and dig out the model number.
However the favourite I've used which is not mine was my brothers diawa Avon barbel rod. Unbelievable playing action. I will try and dig out the model number.
In reply to Post #107
I have one. Brilliant rod
I have one. Brilliant rod
In reply to Post #108
I purchased a pair of daiwa carp rods 2nd hand about 20 years ago, they are supposedly 2 1/4 tc, im not sure of the model but they have brass ferrules, the action on them is superb for surface fishiing terrible for casting over a couple of ounces, they are great for freelining and small controllers, the action is nothing like todays rods and they have a lovely parabolic action, obviously they have softened over the years so much so that i havent used them for 5-6 years, they struggle with controlling fish much larger than 20lb. The best playing rod ive tried though.
I purchased a pair of daiwa carp rods 2nd hand about 20 years ago, they are supposedly 2 1/4 tc, im not sure of the model but they have brass ferrules, the action on them is superb for surface fishiing terrible for casting over a couple of ounces, they are great for freelining and small controllers, the action is nothing like todays rods and they have a lovely parabolic action, obviously they have softened over the years so much so that i havent used them for 5-6 years, they struggle with controlling fish much larger than 20lb. The best playing rod ive tried though.
In reply to Post #108
still got my set of diawa whisker Kevlar tournament 11'6" rods ( wtc3115 ) , absolutely skint me when I bought them as a youth, at the time they were another level slimness blank...great looking rod
still got my set of diawa whisker Kevlar tournament 11'6" rods ( wtc3115 ) , absolutely skint me when I bought them as a youth, at the time they were another level slimness blank...great looking rod
In reply to Post #110
That model code is for 11ft 2.25tc, fantastic rods.
That model code is for 11ft 2.25tc, fantastic rods.
In reply to Post #88
I have them Spod and in 3.25 and love them . But you're right about the reel seat. Had 6000t on them and they barely fit was gonna change the seat. But a love them apart from that . Used to have tamers donkeys years ago loved them too
I have them Spod and in 3.25 and love them . But you're right about the reel seat. Had 6000t on them and they barely fit was gonna change the seat. But a love them apart from that . Used to have tamers donkeys years ago loved them too
In reply to Post #1
Bruce Ashby 12 ft Invaders.
Bruce Ashby 12 ft Invaders.
In reply to Post #113
Kevin Baynes snipers built on Harrison blanks, I own a set of 3 big snipers which I use for 95% of my fishing, I also bought a set of baby snipers off Kev in 2007 and have only used once 
A close second is a pair of dymag rods I bought second hand but were like new, I had these stripped down and re rung again by Kev Baynes 
These rods are now in between the baby and the big sniper I suppose you could say I'm a sniper fan Kevin is now retired but boy could he build a rod
A close second is a pair of dymag rods I bought second hand but were like new, I had these stripped down and re rung again by Kev Baynes These rods are now in between the baby and the big sniper I suppose you could say I'm a sniper fan Kevin is now retired but boy could he build a rod
12ft Daiwa Basia 3.25t x45 Cork handles. Can cast it 180y and in my opinion lovely playing action. So light as well perfectly balanced with my z45 daiwa basiairs😜
Another vote for the old glass rods. Nostalgia is a winner.
My best modern rod is a KKARP (yeah I'd never heard of them either) that I bought from my local tackle shop. It was a demo that he was given so he sold it to me at a ridiculous discount. It really is very nice. A beautifully weighted rod in a kind of dark british racing green. I love it.
My best modern rod is a KKARP (yeah I'd never heard of them either) that I bought from my local tackle shop. It was a demo that he was given so he sold it to me at a ridiculous discount. It really is very nice. A beautifully weighted rod in a kind of dark british racing green. I love it.
In reply to Post #117
Bob Church boron float rods used to be dark racing green colour ... I had a spliced tip one ... was also a lovely rod and never seen many blanks that colour
Bob Church boron float rods used to be dark racing green colour ... I had a spliced tip one ... was also a lovely rod and never seen many blanks that colour
In reply to Post #37
Funny that I'm just about the same
12ft 3 1/4 century NCS
12 ft 3lb ballista slims
Funny that I'm just about the same
12ft 3 1/4 century NCS
12 ft 3lb ballista slims
Century ng 2.75 or my harrison aviator plus I'm using now
Whilst have had Torrix's and such like in the past, if I had to pick one set to use now (I dont have any at the min!!) it would be the old Wychwood Rapiers, bloody loved those rods!! 
In reply to Post #121
Kevin Baynes big snipers for majority of my fishing. Also have 3 baby snipers that my lad will start using. Wish I'd bought a couple of specialists before he hung the bobbins up. Top workmanship of Kev at the Anglers workshop 👍
Kevin Baynes big snipers for majority of my fishing. Also have 3 baby snipers that my lad will start using. Wish I'd bought a couple of specialists before he hung the bobbins up. Top workmanship of Kev at the Anglers workshop 👍
In reply to Post #122
Sure someone like kev Clayton could build you a set of you took yours as a pattern.
Sure someone like kev Clayton could build you a set of you took yours as a pattern.
In reply to Post #123
That's a good point.
Baines built rods to suit the individual buying them but even so, there can't have been too many permutations.
I wish other builders would pick up the gauntlet now vacant.
That's a good point.
Baines built rods to suit the individual buying them but even so, there can't have been too many permutations.
I wish other builders would pick up the gauntlet now vacant.
In reply to Post #116
You need to enter some comps because that make you a better caster than most tournament casters, who i know for a fact cant get 180 out of a Basia Rod!
You need to enter some comps because that make you a better caster than most tournament casters, who i know for a fact cant get 180 out of a Basia Rod!
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