Hi All,
Getting back into carping after a 20 year break and need some advice regarding what set up to get, I have been doing plenty of research but am struggling to make any decisions! I intend to fish mostly small waters and prefer to stalk and remain as mobile as possible (I also have limited storage space at home). I will only fish two rods max and have so far narrowed it down to either the 3 piece Harrison stalker (2.75 t.c) 0r the DYMAG stalkers (would probably get one of each test curve of these), I have also considered the Scopes but cant seem to find an honest review anywhere, would appreciate opinions on these rods from people that have used them. As for reels I already have a 4000 size baitrunner so may get another one of these unless there are any other options that would be better? landing net I was thinking either the JohnsonRoss two piece or maybe the Sonik recon one which packs down really small (can't really justify the price of the DYMAG net or the Scope net). I am not really going to be doing full night sessions anytime soon so was thinking of standalone bite alarms rather than ones with a receiver as may not need these for much of the fishing I will be doing anyway, again recommendations greatly received. Would also appreciate any advice on what rig bits, line etc I should be getting to start with! Apologies for the epic post but the more I look into it the more confused I am getting!
Regards
J
Getting back into carping after a 20 year break and need some advice regarding what set up to get, I have been doing plenty of research but am struggling to make any decisions! I intend to fish mostly small waters and prefer to stalk and remain as mobile as possible (I also have limited storage space at home). I will only fish two rods max and have so far narrowed it down to either the 3 piece Harrison stalker (2.75 t.c) 0r the DYMAG stalkers (would probably get one of each test curve of these), I have also considered the Scopes but cant seem to find an honest review anywhere, would appreciate opinions on these rods from people that have used them. As for reels I already have a 4000 size baitrunner so may get another one of these unless there are any other options that would be better? landing net I was thinking either the JohnsonRoss two piece or maybe the Sonik recon one which packs down really small (can't really justify the price of the DYMAG net or the Scope net). I am not really going to be doing full night sessions anytime soon so was thinking of standalone bite alarms rather than ones with a receiver as may not need these for much of the fishing I will be doing anyway, again recommendations greatly received. Would also appreciate any advice on what rig bits, line etc I should be getting to start with! Apologies for the epic post but the more I look into it the more confused I am getting!
Regards
J
In reply to Post #1
I don't know much about short rods but you seem to have that covered anyway. As for reels/buzzers I'd look at the okuma inception 6000. Lovely little reel. My mate had some on a set of scopes. Buzzer wize you could do a lot worse than the new Fox mini micron. Small, compact and loud. £30 each also helps. Sonik do a net that packs down to 30inches, the extractor recon. Single sticks and a small tackle bag and a bait bucket is all you really need. We are all guilty of carrying too much gear.
I don't know much about short rods but you seem to have that covered anyway. As for reels/buzzers I'd look at the okuma inception 6000. Lovely little reel. My mate had some on a set of scopes. Buzzer wize you could do a lot worse than the new Fox mini micron. Small, compact and loud. £30 each also helps. Sonik do a net that packs down to 30inches, the extractor recon. Single sticks and a small tackle bag and a bait bucket is all you really need. We are all guilty of carrying too much gear.
In reply to Post #1
Forget scopes or anything Nash overpriced junk there are a lot of far better tackle out there Cotswold pace compacts great reviews or the Harrison you mentioned but I had them when first came out lot of messing about with three piece sold them there is the fox explorer or sonik xtractor 4000 is a bit small imo daiwa emcast is good or emblem 25a if u want to go cheaper then the daiwa ninja lt is good or if u don't mind paying the daiwa castzem if you want a rucksack I've had them all the most comfortable is the esp camo just a basic sack but good landing net u need a two piece handle if stalking you don't need to pay dymag prices there's loads out there
Forget scopes or anything Nash overpriced junk there are a lot of far better tackle out there Cotswold pace compacts great reviews or the Harrison you mentioned but I had them when first came out lot of messing about with three piece sold them there is the fox explorer or sonik xtractor 4000 is a bit small imo daiwa emcast is good or emblem 25a if u want to go cheaper then the daiwa ninja lt is good or if u don't mind paying the daiwa castzem if you want a rucksack I've had them all the most comfortable is the esp camo just a basic sack but good landing net u need a two piece handle if stalking you don't need to pay dymag prices there's loads out there
In reply to Post #3
Had all of the rods you've mentioned in the original post and they are all beautiful bits of kit but because i like to leave everything set up ready to go i found the harrisons and dymags a bit of a faff due to them being 3 piece. Its all relative though as in real terms its seconds to sort the sections out but when there's a proper one tearing up an edge spot it feels like a lifetime haha! I had some scopes which were very nice but i just didn't get the feel for them and i snapped a tip on a cast which rocked my confidence in them so i "down graded" to some pace compacts and couldn't be happier. They are certainly right up there with the scopes in terms of capability but a little bit more budget friendly, the build looks great too. I honestly don't think you will go wrong with any of the gear you've mentioned and there's no doubt the harrison and dymag rods will outlive all of the telescopic type rods and they are gorgeous bits of kit especially the dymag but the convenience of a 2 piece pack down swings it for me.
Had all of the rods you've mentioned in the original post and they are all beautiful bits of kit but because i like to leave everything set up ready to go i found the harrisons and dymags a bit of a faff due to them being 3 piece. Its all relative though as in real terms its seconds to sort the sections out but when there's a proper one tearing up an edge spot it feels like a lifetime haha! I had some scopes which were very nice but i just didn't get the feel for them and i snapped a tip on a cast which rocked my confidence in them so i "down graded" to some pace compacts and couldn't be happier. They are certainly right up there with the scopes in terms of capability but a little bit more budget friendly, the build looks great too. I honestly don't think you will go wrong with any of the gear you've mentioned and there's no doubt the harrison and dymag rods will outlive all of the telescopic type rods and they are gorgeous bits of kit especially the dymag but the convenience of a 2 piece pack down swings it for me.
In reply to Post #2
I'm looking at that net myself just need to find one in my local shops first
I'm looking at that net myself just need to find one in my local shops first
In reply to Post #4
I wouldn't say you down graded to pace tbh I think you are looking at the price difference it's that scopes are overpriced and pace are at the right price glad you like them you did the right move
I wouldn't say you down graded to pace tbh I think you are looking at the price difference it's that scopes are overpriced and pace are at the right price glad you like them you did the right move
First time out with the new pace compacts in 10ft 3lb for me this weekend, they are very nice rods. I have them in a fox r series 12ft 3 piece 3 rod bag which is 135cm in length. As someone else said, rods with more than two pieces are a pain to keep packing down when rigged up, not impossible - just a faff.
I got a sabre carbon 2 piece net which fits in the pocket on the rod bag perfectly, seems good for the money and has a decent quality soft green mesh.
I got a sabre carbon 2 piece net which fits in the pocket on the rod bag perfectly, seems good for the money and has a decent quality soft green mesh.
In reply to Post #3
There Dwarfs are OK. Once you have
Had the tip section inexplicably snap.
Fine after that. Bit shorter and beefier 😂
There Dwarfs are OK. Once you have
Had the tip section inexplicably snap.
Fine after that. Bit shorter and beefier 😂
If the budget stretches to it what about the century CQ set up - comes with the net and bag made to measure. Have only ever seen good reviews on them.
In reply to Post #7
Nice buzz bar set up. Are they the Korda black Singlez?
Nice buzz bar set up. Are they the Korda black Singlez?
In reply to Post #10
Those are jag black sticks with 5" and 6" two rod bars
Those are jag black sticks with 5" and 6" two rod bars
Thanks for all the replies gents, much appreciated. I was not aware of the cotswold compact rods and will take a closer look at them, although I would prefer a 9ft rod. The century CQ had caught my eye but I was a bit put off by the test curve of 3.5 lb which seems a bit much for the type of fishing I will be doing most of the time (dropping in under the tip, freelining, floating crust etc) although it may be useful in some situations with heavier leads, really snaggy swims or at longer range. Dare I say I may end up with non -matching rods! (which actually doesn't bother me) As for budget I will fork out for quality knowing that I won't be replacing them any time soon assuming they are up to the job of course.
Some interesting food for thought on the, alarms, reels and landing nets.
Could do with some decent abrasion resistant line that sinks quickly. Was thinking of the GardnerGR60 based on what I've read but not used it myself, always used to use maxima back in the day.
Hook recommendations would be appreciated as well, I do not remember there being quite so much choice in the 90s!
Thanks
J
Some interesting food for thought on the, alarms, reels and landing nets.
Could do with some decent abrasion resistant line that sinks quickly. Was thinking of the GardnerGR60 based on what I've read but not used it myself, always used to use maxima back in the day.
Hook recommendations would be appreciated as well, I do not remember there being quite so much choice in the 90s!
Thanks
J
In reply to Post #1
I've recently swapped to 10ft 3.25tc sonik xtractors and have had a fair few fish on them. Only up to 18lb but they've handled them like a champ, I've had to give a few of them quite a lot of stick as I'm fishing tight to snags but again, no issues. They are a bit on the pokey side but that's expected with a short stiff rod.
I have them paired with okuma 6000 inc reels loaded with cm90 12lb, I swapped the xtractor reels for these (the xtractor reels are £25 reel marked up to £50+). The xtractors did the job but the okumas are so much more reel for the money. Highly recommend them. I've never had a fishing line more supple than cm90 and it sinks well too.
I'm hopefully joining a 24 acre club water in the area soon and I'm honestly not sure if I'll go back to my 12ft rods after using this newer setup. The 2 rods, retaining sling, dwarf telescopic net, throwing stick and storm poles all fit in my TA quiver and comes out at just a metre in length. I sold my barrow so walking about with this setup is a lot less heft than my old one.
I've recently swapped to 10ft 3.25tc sonik xtractors and have had a fair few fish on them. Only up to 18lb but they've handled them like a champ, I've had to give a few of them quite a lot of stick as I'm fishing tight to snags but again, no issues. They are a bit on the pokey side but that's expected with a short stiff rod.
I have them paired with okuma 6000 inc reels loaded with cm90 12lb, I swapped the xtractor reels for these (the xtractor reels are £25 reel marked up to £50+). The xtractors did the job but the okumas are so much more reel for the money. Highly recommend them. I've never had a fishing line more supple than cm90 and it sinks well too.
I'm hopefully joining a 24 acre club water in the area soon and I'm honestly not sure if I'll go back to my 12ft rods after using this newer setup. The 2 rods, retaining sling, dwarf telescopic net, throwing stick and storm poles all fit in my TA quiver and comes out at just a metre in length. I sold my barrow so walking about with this setup is a lot less heft than my old one.
In reply to Post #13
Thanks for the suggestions I will checkout the soniks, the line and the okuma reels. Certainly got some more research to do
Cheers
J
Thanks for the suggestions I will checkout the soniks, the line and the okuma reels. Certainly got some more research to do
Cheers
J
Also worth considering what you want from the rods. You can save a hell of a lot of weight and space by tying your 12ft rods to a landing net handle, using old shoe laces. And only taking stuff you need in a small rucksack. Personally dont get this 9/10ft rod craze.
In reply to Post #15
The waters I will be fishing are all pretty small including canals so I won't need to hit big distances and the shorter length will help in the tighter swims where a 12ft rod would be a hinderance. I generally prefer to keep mobile and find the fish where possible, heaving around loads of gear and being stuck in one swim just doesn't appeal to me. I also have limited storage space at home. From experience with the other types of fishing I do I find casting accuracy is better with shorter rods. Rod styles go through phases when I first started Carping in the late 80s rods were generally 11 ft and much lighter test curves than nowadays, so a 12ft 3lb test curve rod was also a latest craze at some point. In beach fishing, which I also do, the latest fashion is for much longer rods 14-15ft rather than 12 ft which was the norm a decade ago but again all depends on the style of fishing you do.
The waters I will be fishing are all pretty small including canals so I won't need to hit big distances and the shorter length will help in the tighter swims where a 12ft rod would be a hinderance. I generally prefer to keep mobile and find the fish where possible, heaving around loads of gear and being stuck in one swim just doesn't appeal to me. I also have limited storage space at home. From experience with the other types of fishing I do I find casting accuracy is better with shorter rods. Rod styles go through phases when I first started Carping in the late 80s rods were generally 11 ft and much lighter test curves than nowadays, so a 12ft 3lb test curve rod was also a latest craze at some point. In beach fishing, which I also do, the latest fashion is for much longer rods 14-15ft rather than 12 ft which was the norm a decade ago but again all depends on the style of fishing you do.
In reply to Post #3
I have to agree with that in terms of Nash gear.
Shocking quality, overpriced. I am surprised it sells tbh. Maybe it's just well marketed to the kids.
I have to agree with that in terms of Nash gear.
Shocking quality, overpriced. I am surprised it sells tbh. Maybe it's just well marketed to the kids.
In reply to Post #15
I'm fishing an old quarry at the moment with tiny swims you couldn't swing a cat in. I had one session with my 12ft rods and they were not only horrible to use there but also an absolute nightmare to carry around with through all the narrow gaps. There is a market for them and a practical reason for some even if they are fashionable.
I'm fishing an old quarry at the moment with tiny swims you couldn't swing a cat in. I had one session with my 12ft rods and they were not only horrible to use there but also an absolute nightmare to carry around with through all the narrow gaps. There is a market for them and a practical reason for some even if they are fashionable.
In reply to Post #18
Fashionable maybe but short rods for carp are not a new idea. Chris Yates caught the former British record on a 9ft 11 cane rod in 1980 and that was built by Richard Walker in the 50s!
Fashionable maybe but short rods for carp are not a new idea. Chris Yates caught the former British record on a 9ft 11 cane rod in 1980 and that was built by Richard Walker in the 50s!
In reply to Post #12
For hooks all I use these days are Gardner muggas. Perfect for bottom baits ,wafters or pop ups. Sting, reliable and sharp out of the packet.
For hooks all I use these days are Gardner muggas. Perfect for bottom baits ,wafters or pop ups. Sting, reliable and sharp out of the packet.
In reply to Post #1
I'd get a full Dymag setup including the rod bag and net. The whole concept is exceptional. It's certainly not cheap, but high quality craftsmanship never is.
I'd get a full Dymag setup including the rod bag and net. The whole concept is exceptional. It's certainly not cheap, but high quality craftsmanship never is.
In reply to Post #21
I'm seriously considering the rods, not sure about the net which I'm sure is superb but the price tag puts me off compared to some of the other options out there.
Any idea how the dymag stalkers compare to the Harrison stalkers in terms of playing action?
I'm seriously considering the rods, not sure about the net which I'm sure is superb but the price tag puts me off compared to some of the other options out there.
Any idea how the dymag stalkers compare to the Harrison stalkers in terms of playing action?
In reply to Post #22
I'm sure they are the same blank
I'm sure they are the same blank
In reply to Post #22
I've not tried the Harrison's for a comparison so I can't say. Although Dymags are on Harrison blanks, they're to Dymags own spec from what I gather with a 1k weave. I loves my Dymags, coupled together with SS2600's, it's the tits. One hand casting, no problem. They are through action. Had cats to 35lb on them and they handled moggies without a hitch, and if you've ever had a reasonable size cat, you'll know how insanely hard they fight.
Net wise, you could buy a JRC two piece net that would fit in the Dymag side compartment. I didn't go for the Dymag net at first and instead got the JRC one which is very well made, nice and stiff unlike many other nets out there. Then I went all fancy pants and brought the Dymag net...well bling. The one thing I would say that's very good with the Dymag net is that you can get the extension which is great for when you're fishing high banks etc which is the only stalking net I know of that does this and that's super compact.
JRC two piece landing net: https://www.anglingdirect.co.uk/jrc-stealth-landing-net-42
I've not tried the Harrison's for a comparison so I can't say. Although Dymags are on Harrison blanks, they're to Dymags own spec from what I gather with a 1k weave. I loves my Dymags, coupled together with SS2600's, it's the tits. One hand casting, no problem. They are through action. Had cats to 35lb on them and they handled moggies without a hitch, and if you've ever had a reasonable size cat, you'll know how insanely hard they fight.
Net wise, you could buy a JRC two piece net that would fit in the Dymag side compartment. I didn't go for the Dymag net at first and instead got the JRC one which is very well made, nice and stiff unlike many other nets out there. Then I went all fancy pants and brought the Dymag net...well bling. The one thing I would say that's very good with the Dymag net is that you can get the extension which is great for when you're fishing high banks etc which is the only stalking net I know of that does this and that's super compact.
JRC two piece landing net: https://www.anglingdirect.co.uk/jrc-stealth-landing-net-42
In reply to Post #24
Thanks for the reply, do you have the 2.75 tc? I was thinking of one of each tc but wasn't sure if I may be a bit under gunned with the 2.25 which I was thinking to use as a dedicated freelining and surface rod (and maybe even for twitching sprats for pike in the winter). That JRC net looks perfect for what I need.
I am going to get some build options priced up, the Dymag brochure is a little sparse on details so will fire him an email to see what guides he has etc.
Thanks once again for all the replies gents.
Cheers
J
Thanks for the reply, do you have the 2.75 tc? I was thinking of one of each tc but wasn't sure if I may be a bit under gunned with the 2.25 which I was thinking to use as a dedicated freelining and surface rod (and maybe even for twitching sprats for pike in the winter). That JRC net looks perfect for what I need.
I am going to get some build options priced up, the Dymag brochure is a little sparse on details so will fire him an email to see what guides he has etc.
Thanks once again for all the replies gents.
Cheers
J
In reply to Post #25
Personally I'd get both the same test curve, though it's all very personal. I've got the 2 3/4 and love them for small waters or tight swims. They're the perfect stalking rod for me.
There are other options out there. Century do a small rod. One of my mates raves over his set
I'd call the guy at Dymag if you get the chance. It might take a while to get to speak to him as he is very busy and it's not his day job from what I gather. Don't get disheartened if it takes ages to contact him as some do from what I've read. Just leave a message or two on his phone and I'm sure he'll get back to you soon enough. He is decent to deal with and not a knob.
Personally I'd get both the same test curve, though it's all very personal. I've got the 2 3/4 and love them for small waters or tight swims. They're the perfect stalking rod for me.
There are other options out there. Century do a small rod. One of my mates raves over his set
I'd call the guy at Dymag if you get the chance. It might take a while to get to speak to him as he is very busy and it's not his day job from what I gather. Don't get disheartened if it takes ages to contact him as some do from what I've read. Just leave a message or two on his phone and I'm sure he'll get back to you soon enough. He is decent to deal with and not a knob.
Hi All,
Got offered a pair of Harrison stalkers in good condition for a decent price so that's rod and reels sorted thanks for the advice. Now onto a rucksack or carryall. I have a drennan roving ruckbag which is the perfect size but has begun to fall apart after a few months use so got to get something else but not sure which just needs to hold a flask some food and a few bits of end tackle. I have the korum accessory chair and bag which far to big and heavy for what I need so was looking a using a bait bucket as a seat. Any recommendations greatly appreciated.
Cheers
J
Got offered a pair of Harrison stalkers in good condition for a decent price so that's rod and reels sorted thanks for the advice. Now onto a rucksack or carryall. I have a drennan roving ruckbag which is the perfect size but has begun to fall apart after a few months use so got to get something else but not sure which just needs to hold a flask some food and a few bits of end tackle. I have the korum accessory chair and bag which far to big and heavy for what I need so was looking a using a bait bucket as a seat. Any recommendations greatly appreciated.
Cheers
J
In reply to Post #27
id go thinking anglers for your rucksack, ive had mine a year and use it every week and its never missed a beat.
compact but well laid out, and you've got the buckles on the top to attach a roll up mat.
id go thinking anglers for your rucksack, ive had mine a year and use it every week and its never missed a beat.
compact but well laid out, and you've got the buckles on the top to attach a roll up mat.
In reply to Post #28
Thanks for the suggestion, I will check that out now.
Thanks for the suggestion, I will check that out now.
In reply to Post #27
I have a Miltec rucksack for short sessions. It's got loads of pockets as it's based on a military rucksack. Well made and robust and it was only £32!
I have a Miltec rucksack for short sessions. It's got loads of pockets as it's based on a military rucksack. Well made and robust and it was only £32!
In reply to Post #29
The korum compact ruck bag is worth a look, I've got a ruck bag and agree it's too big for short trips, I use it as a long session carryall
I'm happy sitting on a bucket when I'm roving and just want to take the load off now and again, but for trips longer than say 6 hours I take a lightweight camping chair. You can get them in aldi occasionally or amazon, usually under £20, weigh under a kilo and fold up tiny. Just a slight step up from a bucket but easier on my back for sure
The korum compact ruck bag is worth a look, I've got a ruck bag and agree it's too big for short trips, I use it as a long session carryall
I'm happy sitting on a bucket when I'm roving and just want to take the load off now and again, but for trips longer than say 6 hours I take a lightweight camping chair. You can get them in aldi occasionally or amazon, usually under £20, weigh under a kilo and fold up tiny. Just a slight step up from a bucket but easier on my back for sure
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