Hi
I wonder if anyone's got some suggestions as I'm finding it difficult deciding on a suitable 12ft rod for a specific target this Winter. The target is 50lb+ with some possible friends in the mid 40's and although I once had an accidental nail-biting 38 on a 1.25 JW Avon rod, I'd like to give myself less heart failure moving into uncharted territory. My longer-range options are sorted but I'm looking for a 12ft rod with a very cushioning forgiving action for contact in the margins (no tight space restrictions) at about 4-20 yards, either freelined on the bottom or with a light bomb onto a silt bottom, with no real snag issues.
I've considered everything from 2nd hand Hutchy Dream makers, TH MK 1 1.75's, Century Fat Boy Slims and even considering an ESP MK2 floater, because I just can't seem to find anything current that has a more through action.
I'm thinking maybe 2.5 - 2.75 tc would be best.
I've got 9ft margin rods (Scopes and FS E class bank creepers at 2.25) that I use on smaller waters for smaller fish, but feel I might be a bit undergunned with them. I've heard that the FS E Class Gold 2.75 is a bit more 'through' action.
I'd appreciate any input now I've just got Christmas clearance from my long-suffering partner.
All the best
I wonder if anyone's got some suggestions as I'm finding it difficult deciding on a suitable 12ft rod for a specific target this Winter. The target is 50lb+ with some possible friends in the mid 40's and although I once had an accidental nail-biting 38 on a 1.25 JW Avon rod, I'd like to give myself less heart failure moving into uncharted territory. My longer-range options are sorted but I'm looking for a 12ft rod with a very cushioning forgiving action for contact in the margins (no tight space restrictions) at about 4-20 yards, either freelined on the bottom or with a light bomb onto a silt bottom, with no real snag issues.
I've considered everything from 2nd hand Hutchy Dream makers, TH MK 1 1.75's, Century Fat Boy Slims and even considering an ESP MK2 floater, because I just can't seem to find anything current that has a more through action.
I'm thinking maybe 2.5 - 2.75 tc would be best.
I've got 9ft margin rods (Scopes and FS E class bank creepers at 2.25) that I use on smaller waters for smaller fish, but feel I might be a bit undergunned with them. I've heard that the FS E Class Gold 2.75 is a bit more 'through' action.
I'd appreciate any input now I've just got Christmas clearance from my long-suffering partner.
All the best
In reply to Post #1
Torrix 2.5lb
Torrix 2.5lb
In reply to Post #1
I can certainly vouch for Century FatBoySlims as I had a set of 2.75lb & they were an absolute joy to play fish on close in or on small waters.
I can certainly vouch for Century FatBoySlims as I had a set of 2.75lb & they were an absolute joy to play fish on close in or on small waters.
In reply to Post #1
Harrison multi carp 2.25
Absolutely perfect for that scenario
Harrison multi carp 2.25
Absolutely perfect for that scenario
In reply to Post #1
I'm hoping my 2lb infinity super slims will be perfect for the same kind of fishing lol
I'm hoping my 2lb infinity super slims will be perfect for the same kind of fishing lol
I am a Harrison fan admittedly, the kiddie for this has been touted before as a Baby ballista circa 2.5lb. They are supposed to be the nuts for this scenario 👌
In reply to Post #6
Baby ballista indeed although they are 11ft in any tc or as stated multi carp , i would also add the accurix
Baby ballista indeed although they are 11ft in any tc or as stated multi carp , i would also add the accurix
In reply to Post #1
I have both a pair of 2 1/4tc Multicarp and three 2.5tc Baby Ballistas and both are great close range rods. For ultimate close quarters control and forgiveness it would have to be the Multicarp though.
I have both a pair of 2 1/4tc Multicarp and three 2.5tc Baby Ballistas and both are great close range rods. For ultimate close quarters control and forgiveness it would have to be the Multicarp though.
The 2.5 accurix has got to be a contender
In reply to Post #1
Is this for real??
Is this for real??
Baby ballista are famously good - but 11 foot.
If you have they money then buy some FS es or R1 Light etc. However ...
... this won't be popular, if you want a nice close range rod then buy something cheap with a test curve of below 3lb, My £25 JRC 2.75lb Defenders were terrible rods in many ways but they were perfect for close range as they were nice and soft.
If you have they money then buy some FS es or R1 Light etc. However ...
... this won't be popular, if you want a nice close range rod then buy something cheap with a test curve of below 3lb, My £25 JRC 2.75lb Defenders were terrible rods in many ways but they were perfect for close range as they were nice and soft.
In reply to Post #1
Free spirit CTX..in 2.5 tc....this is a lovely rod,...its all I use these days,from down the edge,up to 80 yards...lovely rods...
I like the length as it enables me to place my traps in slightly deeper margins,feeling the lead and bait down so to speak..
Free spirit CTX..in 2.5 tc....this is a lovely rod,...its all I use these days,from down the edge,up to 80 yards...lovely rods...
I like the length as it enables me to place my traps in slightly deeper margins,feeling the lead and bait down so to speak..
In reply to Post #1
Acurix in 2.75 are great, I wouldn't mind a set of 2.5lb tc though mind.
Acurix in 2.75 are great, I wouldn't mind a set of 2.5lb tc though mind.
In reply to Post #1
I have a pair 12 ft multi carp ready next week full cork 👍perfect for what you want , dont know why these are overlooked these days .
I have a pair 12 ft multi carp ready next week full cork 👍perfect for what you want , dont know why these are overlooked these days .
In reply to Post #14
I think the accurix are recommended as a more modern version, but personally I'd take the multi carp, chimera or ballista over them. (tin hat at the ready)
I think the accurix are recommended as a more modern version, but personally I'd take the multi carp, chimera or ballista over them. (tin hat at the ready)
In reply to Post #1
Armalite in either 2.25 or 2.5tc
Armalite in either 2.25 or 2.5tc
In reply to Post #15
Have said it before and will say it again would take a ballista over anything.
Have said it before and will say it again would take a ballista over anything.
In reply to Post #1
I've personally got a pair of ESP MK2 floater rods, now use them for most of my surface & ' normal' boilie fishing.
Put the pleasure back into playing fish on balanced tackle.
Great value for money.
I've personally got a pair of ESP MK2 floater rods, now use them for most of my surface & ' normal' boilie fishing.
Put the pleasure back into playing fish on balanced tackle.
Great value for money.
Easy, Century Armalite mk3 or NG 2.75lb, I love the mk2 NG for intimate waters with big fish as long as they are not not snaggy..
In reply to Post #10
Cheers for all the replies.
I've looked at so many options in the past weeks I've lost the plot, so this helps to gradually narrow it down a bit and keeping an eye on Ebay.
Good to hear that ESP Floaters make the switch to bottom baits as I haven't got a dedicated floater rod and it could double up.
Which bit is unreal Hu? The size of the targets or the flukey JW Avon bit?
Personally, I can't imagine what a 50 would feel like. I've only had 2 real whoppers in 45 years and it was a bit of an unexpected religious experience on both occasions. I've recently seen what looked like a small horse's head coming out at dawn a few times and it was mindblowing at 150 yards on the far margins, so I've got to have a crack at it.
Gotta dream big to keep meself warm once the nights get black and cold. That and download plenty of movies.
Cheers for all the replies.
I've looked at so many options in the past weeks I've lost the plot, so this helps to gradually narrow it down a bit and keeping an eye on Ebay.
Good to hear that ESP Floaters make the switch to bottom baits as I haven't got a dedicated floater rod and it could double up.
Which bit is unreal Hu? The size of the targets or the flukey JW Avon bit?
Personally, I can't imagine what a 50 would feel like. I've only had 2 real whoppers in 45 years and it was a bit of an unexpected religious experience on both occasions. I've recently seen what looked like a small horse's head coming out at dawn a few times and it was mindblowing at 150 yards on the far margins, so I've got to have a crack at it.
Gotta dream big to keep meself warm once the nights get black and cold. That and download plenty of movies.
In reply to Post #2
Torrix 2.5 lbs for sure
Torrix 2.5 lbs for sure
In reply to Post #20
You saw a small horse stick it's head out at 150 yards?
You saw a small horse stick it's head out at 150 yards?
In reply to Post #22
In reply to Post #20
Personally I wouldn't take the chance with a floater rod, I have used the ESP mk11 for bottom fishing and thought it was a bit lightweight even though had fish to 28, def wouldn't want to be playing a potential 50+ on one, I'd want that in the net without any messin about!
Personally I wouldn't take the chance with a floater rod, I have used the ESP mk11 for bottom fishing and thought it was a bit lightweight even though had fish to 28, def wouldn't want to be playing a potential 50+ on one, I'd want that in the net without any messin about!
In reply to Post #24
Thanks, that makes sense.
Overall, the Harrisons and Centurys highlighted seem to fit the description of a 1st option, although a 2nd hand single rod around £200 is all I could stretch to atm until work is a bit more secure, also on a 2 rod lake it'll be 1 in close 1 out - further out being either my Prologic Quasar K1 or Shimano 50Cal - both 2.75. Searching for bargains on e bay means I've got a right old mix of rods and I haven't had a 'set' for some time.
If the rona calms down next year I might be looking to get a custom.
In the meanwhile does anyone know about the 'vintage' Century Ultimate Carp 12' 2.75lb from the 90's -
8 rings to 30mm - 2 rings on the butt section which might suggest it has a through-ish action.
Other than that - anyone have any thoughts on -
Hutchinson MKII Dream Maker 2.75 12ft
Terry Hearn MK1 2.75 12 ft
Free Spirit e class gold 2.75
Thanks, that makes sense.
Overall, the Harrisons and Centurys highlighted seem to fit the description of a 1st option, although a 2nd hand single rod around £200 is all I could stretch to atm until work is a bit more secure, also on a 2 rod lake it'll be 1 in close 1 out - further out being either my Prologic Quasar K1 or Shimano 50Cal - both 2.75. Searching for bargains on e bay means I've got a right old mix of rods and I haven't had a 'set' for some time.
If the rona calms down next year I might be looking to get a custom.
In the meanwhile does anyone know about the 'vintage' Century Ultimate Carp 12' 2.75lb from the 90's -
8 rings to 30mm - 2 rings on the butt section which might suggest it has a through-ish action.
Other than that - anyone have any thoughts on -
Hutchinson MKII Dream Maker 2.75 12ft
Terry Hearn MK1 2.75 12 ft
Free Spirit e class gold 2.75
In reply to Post #25
The Hutchinson rods I had years ago were the Dream maker Enigma's 2.75lb 12', really fantastic rods and I really regret selling them to buy a set of Torrix's, the fish playing action was perfect on these, brilliant small water rods.
E class gold not in the same league though, nowhere near. Played with a mates with a huge sturgeon and didn't like them, or the fish tbh! Much preferred my Hi's at the time, (which I still use often) but of course much more ££.
The TH rods are great, all Drennan rods are brilliant for the money imo.. While I've never used the TH range, I do have (too) many Drennan feeder/float rods and love them all..
The Hutchinson rods I had years ago were the Dream maker Enigma's 2.75lb 12', really fantastic rods and I really regret selling them to buy a set of Torrix's, the fish playing action was perfect on these, brilliant small water rods.
E class gold not in the same league though, nowhere near. Played with a mates with a huge sturgeon and didn't like them, or the fish tbh! Much preferred my Hi's at the time, (which I still use often) but of course much more ££.
The TH rods are great, all Drennan rods are brilliant for the money imo.. While I've never used the TH range, I do have (too) many Drennan feeder/float rods and love them all..
In reply to Post #25
There are bargains to be had - last year I bought 3 x 2.75lb century NGs for £110. Well used but in good nick, have had many a good fish on them.
There are bargains to be had - last year I bought 3 x 2.75lb century NGs for £110. Well used but in good nick, have had many a good fish on them.
In reply to Post #28
Baby ballistas. Have a set for a very similar scenario. Would happily fish those rods almost anywhere.
Baby ballistas. Have a set for a very similar scenario. Would happily fish those rods almost anywhere.
In reply to Post #1
I'll buy the rods for you if you tell me where the lake is 😂
I'll buy the rods for you if you tell me where the lake is 😂
In reply to Post #30
In reply to Post #31
Century X Lite 12ft 2.75lb, really nice playing rods but with enough backbone to stop a bus if needed.
Century X Lite 12ft 2.75lb, really nice playing rods but with enough backbone to stop a bus if needed.
My profile picture is of an English fifty caught next to a tree that a storm had brought
I freelined a bait down on a margin ledge it was quite literally under my rod tip
the rod I used was a Century NG 2.75lb it was wonderful like a bungy cushioning and then stopping the fish from going into the tree and all without ripping the hook out
as that would of happened if I were daft enough to be using silly stiff 3.5lb rods
EDIT out of interest my PB is 68lb a French fish also using the 2.75lb Century NGs and a big winter cat !! that should not have been in the lake lol poxy things
I freelined a bait down on a margin ledge it was quite literally under my rod tip
the rod I used was a Century NG 2.75lb it was wonderful like a bungy cushioning and then stopping the fish from going into the tree and all without ripping the hook out
as that would of happened if I were daft enough to be using silly stiff 3.5lb rods
EDIT out of interest my PB is 68lb a French fish also using the 2.75lb Century NGs and a big winter cat !! that should not have been in the lake lol poxy things
In reply to Post #31
Watch out for Capt. Ahab
Watch out for Capt. Ahab
In reply to Post #1
Find yourself some Baby Ballista 2.5lb, they'll be perfect for your needs
Find yourself some Baby Ballista 2.5lb, they'll be perfect for your needs
Mk1 armalites
In reply to Post #1
Have you considered free spirit ES mate these are a lovely players rods and just keep on bending and never had a hook pull using these, brilliant rods
Have you considered free spirit ES mate these are a lovely players rods and just keep on bending and never had a hook pull using these, brilliant rods
In reply to Post #1
Free Spirit ES, 12ft 2 3/4. END OF... had mine years, do margins to mid range brilliantly, very forgiving and great for zig fishing with the 2ft extensions. I can't say I have never had a hook pull using them, as frankly to say that is stretching the truth. But, they are very good under the rod tip and certainly reduce the propensity for hook pulls. For everything but distance fishing, they are IMHO the best rod on the market. I have Castizm QD's on mine, which balance them beautifully. Had mine built by Vic Gibson with full duplon , so look good too... can't recommend them highly enough and paired with my 12ft hi sive ER's, that's everything covered. i'd also recommend the 10ft hi s 2 3/4, I have three of those which I use on smaller waters and margin work - very similar to the ES but in a shorter package.
Free Spirit ES, 12ft 2 3/4. END OF... had mine years, do margins to mid range brilliantly, very forgiving and great for zig fishing with the 2ft extensions. I can't say I have never had a hook pull using them, as frankly to say that is stretching the truth. But, they are very good under the rod tip and certainly reduce the propensity for hook pulls. For everything but distance fishing, they are IMHO the best rod on the market. I have Castizm QD's on mine, which balance them beautifully. Had mine built by Vic Gibson with full duplon , so look good too... can't recommend them highly enough and paired with my 12ft hi sive ER's, that's everything covered. i'd also recommend the 10ft hi s 2 3/4, I have three of those which I use on smaller waters and margin work - very similar to the ES but in a shorter package.
In reply to Post #38
Are the es a better playing rod than the 2.5 hi s? I went to buy some of them years back and ended up getting chimeras, I found the hi s had a pretty crap playing action tbh
Are the es a better playing rod than the 2.5 hi s? I went to buy some of them years back and ended up getting chimeras, I found the hi s had a pretty crap playing action tbh
In reply to Post #39
Take a look at the S range (not s- lite)
Good info about the Fs rods:
Free spirit
Take a look at the S range (not s- lite)
Good info about the Fs rods:
Free spirit
Had ES for last 9 years.
Great rods, used them upto 80 yards, fish to low 40's.
Would not use anything else unless fishing at long range.
Mark Tunney built mine.
Great rods, used them upto 80 yards, fish to low 40's.
Would not use anything else unless fishing at long range.
Mark Tunney built mine.
In reply to Post #1
Well, after much deliberation I've decided I'll probably get a Harrison Multi carp made up sometime in the new year when I have the funds, as I just haven't seen anything on ebay that really took my fancy or was in my price range. I've never had a custom, so it'll be a bit special.
A turn up for the books was that my E Class Gold bank creeper pond rods were actually 10ft and 2.5lb tc, so would be an option, but... I've not experienced anything over 20lb on them and my gut feeling tells me I want 12ft for a bit more control, so...
I've dug out one of my old 2001 Fox Rangemaster MK1's at 2.5lb. Tried and tested to very mellow 39lb-er, in the past. I only ever lost a few on these, and can only remember a hookpull or two at longer range.
I tested it recently at a different lake and had a very feisty 27lb common from close range. It's got much more of a progressive action than I remembered, with 7 guides of 30mm to 12mm. The rod's got some ******** as this was one of the fiercest angriest fish I've ever had. It was really really pissed off and as fast as a much smaller fish. Hopefully, the big old lady I'm going for will be a bit more mellow and should be slow and steady, from what I've heard from other capters, if I'm lucky enough to make contact that is. It's a big shallow lake with no snags. I think I'm making the right decison until I can get the new rod.
All this planning and it'll probably be bream all Winter.
Thanks for all the generous info. I've always learnt a lot on this forum.
All the best!
Well, after much deliberation I've decided I'll probably get a Harrison Multi carp made up sometime in the new year when I have the funds, as I just haven't seen anything on ebay that really took my fancy or was in my price range. I've never had a custom, so it'll be a bit special.
A turn up for the books was that my E Class Gold bank creeper pond rods were actually 10ft and 2.5lb tc, so would be an option, but... I've not experienced anything over 20lb on them and my gut feeling tells me I want 12ft for a bit more control, so...
I've dug out one of my old 2001 Fox Rangemaster MK1's at 2.5lb. Tried and tested to very mellow 39lb-er, in the past. I only ever lost a few on these, and can only remember a hookpull or two at longer range.
I tested it recently at a different lake and had a very feisty 27lb common from close range. It's got much more of a progressive action than I remembered, with 7 guides of 30mm to 12mm. The rod's got some ******** as this was one of the fiercest angriest fish I've ever had. It was really really pissed off and as fast as a much smaller fish. Hopefully, the big old lady I'm going for will be a bit more mellow and should be slow and steady, from what I've heard from other capters, if I'm lucky enough to make contact that is. It's a big shallow lake with no snags. I think I'm making the right decison until I can get the new rod.
All this planning and it'll probably be bream all Winter.
Thanks for all the generous info. I've always learnt a lot on this forum.
All the best!
In reply to Post #42
For me, it is the best rod for that situation. Mine has a centrepin on most of the time and has landed 50+lb cats in tricky spots, hardly giving line once you get the initial run under control.
Older designed blanks seem better for that sort of fishing, even modern "players rods" seem to lean towards crispness when casting over having the ability to keep absorbing sudden lunges, even when you don't think it can bend any more. Just for that reason you might find your old fox better than a lot of modern rods.
For me, it is the best rod for that situation. Mine has a centrepin on most of the time and has landed 50+lb cats in tricky spots, hardly giving line once you get the initial run under control.
Older designed blanks seem better for that sort of fishing, even modern "players rods" seem to lean towards crispness when casting over having the ability to keep absorbing sudden lunges, even when you don't think it can bend any more. Just for that reason you might find your old fox better than a lot of modern rods.
This message has been suppressed by a moderator.
In reply to Post #44
You like collecting nice rods 
You like collecting nice rods
In reply to Post #45
You,d be amazed at my collection but never sell any of the collection !
You,d be amazed at my collection but never sell any of the collection !
In reply to Post #44
Is that the pair that are listed as being 2 1/2lb TC? Harrison state that the Multicarp has a maximum TC of 2 1/4lb TC, the 2 1/2 would be a Ballista blank which is quite different.
Is that the pair that are listed as being 2 1/2lb TC? Harrison state that the Multicarp has a maximum TC of 2 1/4lb TC, the 2 1/2 would be a Ballista blank which is quite different.
In reply to Post #47
It should read 2.25lb t.c ! Yes totally different thanks for that.
It should read 2.25lb t.c ! Yes totally different thanks for that.
In reply to Post #47
It'd be a ballista slim (if they still make them) which is actually very similar
It'd be a ballista slim (if they still make them) which is actually very similar
In reply to Post #49
No they dont make them anymore , they do make a ballista in 2 .5 lb t.c
No they dont make them anymore , they do make a ballista in 2 .5 lb t.c
In reply to Post #50
Ah ok, didn't know that
I can't decide between the torrix or ballista in 2.5 to replace my chimeras. I also can't decide whether to do the front knob in Cork or a fancy bit of hardwood
I might even get some dark cork and do the same design
Ah ok, didn't know that
I can't decide between the torrix or ballista in 2.5 to replace my chimeras. I also can't decide whether to do the front knob in Cork or a fancy bit of hardwood
I might even get some dark cork and do the same design
In reply to Post #48
2 1/4tc Multicarp are a joy to use, I'd have thought that you'll sell those easily.
2 1/4tc Multicarp are a joy to use, I'd have thought that you'll sell those easily.
In reply to Post #52
Yeah superb rods , unfortunately most want 3.25 t.c and above these days ! Also they want stuff for **** all !
Yeah superb rods , unfortunately most want 3.25 t.c and above these days ! Also they want stuff for **** all !
In reply to Post #51
I would go for cork as when the blank is under strain the cork will flex easily, you can get some nifty looking cork these days.
I would go for cork as when the blank is under strain the cork will flex easily, you can get some nifty looking cork these days.
In reply to Post #53
Do harrison still make the blanks designed for cat rods jeff? 5lbers or something iirc
Do harrison still make the blanks designed for cat rods jeff? 5lbers or something iirc
In reply to Post #54
It's the bit over the ash hoods Jeff, that convert the screw up dps to a kdps. Flex won't matter as its separated from the blank. I'll do some in the hardwoods with some detailing but if it looks a bit much I might do the two tone cork, it'd be easier for the rod builder that way as it won't be easy to alter the bore if necessary
It's the bit over the ash hoods Jeff, that convert the screw up dps to a kdps. Flex won't matter as its separated from the blank. I'll do some in the hardwoods with some detailing but if it looks a bit much I might do the two tone cork, it'd be easier for the rod builder that way as it won't be easy to alter the bore if necessary
In reply to Post #55
Yes Ian They do a 10ft ballista 5lb t.c cat blank and a 10ft and 12ft 5lb torrix cat blanks
Yes Ian They do a 10ft ballista 5lb t.c cat blank and a 10ft and 12ft 5lb torrix cat blanks
In reply to Post #56
Ah yes you told me before thats what you are doing , did you not manage to get the reel seats ? Im pretty sure hopkins holloway have got them in now ?
Ah yes you told me before thats what you are doing , did you not manage to get the reel seats ? Im pretty sure hopkins holloway have got them in now ?
In reply to Post #58
Yeh the seats were easy to come by, it was this part I couldn't find in the UK, or even a mention of it anywhere
Yeh the seats were easy to come by, it was this part I couldn't find in the UK, or even a mention of it anywhere
In reply to Post #52
yeah if its the advert o have seen on ebay yeah, if it were for 3 they would have sold by now
as others have mentioned people want things for naff all :/
as a point of interest would a 2.25 be able to lob a xs pva bag ?
yeah if its the advert o have seen on ebay yeah, if it were for 3 they would have sold by now
as others have mentioned people want things for naff all :/
as a point of interest would a 2.25 be able to lob a xs pva bag ?
In reply to Post #60
Rrp on factory rods are £250 each .Not a blank to be chucking pva bags.
Rrp on factory rods are £250 each .Not a blank to be chucking pva bags.
In reply to Post #60
Not those rods, other 2.25 rods are used for floodwater barbel fishing with big leads tho.
The multi carp are best with sub 2oz leads imo
Not those rods, other 2.25 rods are used for floodwater barbel fishing with big leads tho.
The multi carp are best with sub 2oz leads imo
In reply to Post #62
Yep chimera no 3 12ft 2.25 tc which are still available.Used these with 6oz leads for barbel.
Yep chimera no 3 12ft 2.25 tc which are still available.Used these with 6oz leads for barbel.
In reply to Post #59
Tackle24de should have those and post them over mate. Can't say I've seen them here either
Tackle24de should have those and post them over mate. Can't say I've seen them here either
In reply to Post #61
fair enough,
i like the lighter action rods, tbf it would only be 25-30 yds max but point taken.
would imagine that a barbel rod would be more suitable as they have a differing action
fair enough,
i like the lighter action rods, tbf it would only be 25-30 yds max but point taken.
would imagine that a barbel rod would be more suitable as they have a differing action
In reply to Post #65
Pretty sure a 2.25 anglers workshop baby sniper would put an extra small solid bag more than double that.
Razorback will confirm it, but I know he'd happily ‘lob' a fair sized lump of lead with them.
My favourite blank that falls into this category is the 11' 4 piece 1.5 Avon. Had carp over 30 on mine and some real scraps in the tropics on 12lb mono/30lb braid bubble float fishing the reef, there used to be an online review by a chap catching 60lb cats with them too.
2.25 torrix is a lovely rod as well
Pretty sure a 2.25 anglers workshop baby sniper would put an extra small solid bag more than double that.
Razorback will confirm it, but I know he'd happily ‘lob' a fair sized lump of lead with them.
My favourite blank that falls into this category is the 11' 4 piece 1.5 Avon. Had carp over 30 on mine and some real scraps in the tropics on 12lb mono/30lb braid bubble float fishing the reef, there used to be an online review by a chap catching 60lb cats with them too.
2.25 torrix is a lovely rod as well
In reply to Post #66
Anglers Workshop Baby Snipers are built on 2.25tc Torrix blanks.
Anglers Workshop Baby Snipers are built on 2.25tc Torrix blanks.
In reply to Post #67
After 2 weeks with multiple phone calls (leaving voice mails) emails and text messages I gave up trying to get a set of a baby snipers, wanted a set of 3 but didn't get a single response. The info I got on them was mind blowing, for a 2.25lb rod it was almost ridiculous 😄
Apparently Kev is about to/has retired 🤷♂️
After 2 weeks with multiple phone calls (leaving voice mails) emails and text messages I gave up trying to get a set of a baby snipers, wanted a set of 3 but didn't get a single response. The info I got on them was mind blowing, for a 2.25lb rod it was almost ridiculous 😄
Apparently Kev is about to/has retired 🤷♂️
In reply to Post #66
thats interesting to note
perhaps if i will the lottery i will treat myself to 3 and keep one as a spare
thats interesting to note
perhaps if i will the lottery i will treat myself to 3 and keep one as a spare
In reply to Post #64
Any idea why? I know they're popular in the states, it seems a simple thing to hide the thread.
I think I've got some on the way, I found a few places with the 18 size but I need to use 20 size seats really or the inserts will be a bit sketchy, either really thin walls or a pretty tight bore which I don't want on bendy rods. By the time the timber has been stabilised there isn't much flex in it.
It won't be long before I refurb my multi carp to match, Tom did bloody well sorting the seats, but with a pin on I end up with two fingers on the threads which gets uncomfortable in a long battle, the varnish is starting to get a bit scruffy now and one guide looks bent and a few worn so it's nearly time
Any idea why? I know they're popular in the states, it seems a simple thing to hide the thread.
I think I've got some on the way, I found a few places with the 18 size but I need to use 20 size seats really or the inserts will be a bit sketchy, either really thin walls or a pretty tight bore which I don't want on bendy rods. By the time the timber has been stabilised there isn't much flex in it.
It won't be long before I refurb my multi carp to match, Tom did bloody well sorting the seats, but with a pin on I end up with two fingers on the threads which gets uncomfortable in a long battle, the varnish is starting to get a bit scruffy now and one guide looks bent and a few worn so it's nearly time
In reply to Post #51
I have the Torrix in 2.5 TC and they are superb having had fish to 31lb on them, it was a joy.
I have the Torrix in 2.5 TC and they are superb having had fish to 31lb on them, it was a joy.
In reply to Post #71
Do you use light leads much? I'm looking for something close to my chimeras
, they were great for flicking tiny leads, sub 1.5oz, but also pretty good stepping into a cast with 2.5oz plus a small mesh bag. I think the ballista would be closest but lose a little in casting, torrix might be better casting but lose a little in playing action.
I'm not sure it's practical to try both with the rod builder in the near future
Do you use light leads much? I'm looking for something close to my chimeras
, they were great for flicking tiny leads, sub 1.5oz, but also pretty good stepping into a cast with 2.5oz plus a small mesh bag. I think the ballista would be closest but lose a little in casting, torrix might be better casting but lose a little in playing action.I'm not sure it's practical to try both with the rod builder in the near future
mk 1 terry Hearn rods..12ft 2.9tc.
In reply to Post #61
Update..
Hope everyone's staying safe and managing to get to the bank for a bit.
Glad you sold the rods, Jeff.
Lockdown has scuppered my plans due to travel restrictions, but I've managed to pick up a very tidy MK1 Terry Hearn 2lb9oz nice and cheap. In the meanwhile I can give it a warm-up at my local pond and try and wake up the big Grass Carp, who usually comes out once a year. There's some big Perch in there too so I'll dig out my float rod and prawn coqtails.
Thanks once again for the info. Wet and warm on Thursday!
Update..
Hope everyone's staying safe and managing to get to the bank for a bit.
Glad you sold the rods, Jeff.
Lockdown has scuppered my plans due to travel restrictions, but I've managed to pick up a very tidy MK1 Terry Hearn 2lb9oz nice and cheap. In the meanwhile I can give it a warm-up at my local pond and try and wake up the big Grass Carp, who usually comes out once a year. There's some big Perch in there too so I'll dig out my float rod and prawn coqtails.
Thanks once again for the info. Wet and warm on Thursday!
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