Looking to upgrade my rods, I have free spirit ctx, I think 3.25 tc and they just don't have the backbone that I need with some fish.
The lake I fish is fairly shallow and the fish kite like mad to the snags and I need more stopping power, but without them being tip heavy rods without any flex!
What are my options around 200/250 a rod? The vast majority of my fishing will be on small UK waters - I don't need heavy casting rods for punching a bag out 200 yards+.
Thinking of maybe the free spirit s lites, in 3.5 tc? Anyone have these and can advise what they are like?
Or what other options do I have in that price range?
I've seen people say Greys aircurve but know nothing about them.
Also free spirit E class are a similar price but again don't know much about them.
Thanks 👍🏽
The lake I fish is fairly shallow and the fish kite like mad to the snags and I need more stopping power, but without them being tip heavy rods without any flex!
What are my options around 200/250 a rod? The vast majority of my fishing will be on small UK waters - I don't need heavy casting rods for punching a bag out 200 yards+.
Thinking of maybe the free spirit s lites, in 3.5 tc? Anyone have these and can advise what they are like?
Or what other options do I have in that price range?
I've seen people say Greys aircurve but know nothing about them.
Also free spirit E class are a similar price but again don't know much about them.
Thanks 👍🏽
In reply to Post #1
Personally I'd go for a lighter test curve rod if you don't need the casting power. You'll both be able to apply more pressure and the softer action will mimimise hook pulls in hit and hold situations.
If happy to look at 2nd hand rods you could probably get century NGs/harrison ballista or alike in bugdet.
Personally I'd go for a lighter test curve rod if you don't need the casting power. You'll both be able to apply more pressure and the softer action will mimimise hook pulls in hit and hold situations.
If happy to look at 2nd hand rods you could probably get century NGs/harrison ballista or alike in bugdet.
In reply to Post #1
for real stopping power go for a 10 footer 3lb / 3.25 and line with little stretch. You may find just spooling up with little stretch line or braid (if allowed) will eradicate your problem.
Have had the 12ft air curve in 3.5 and they were lovely rods, probably the best all rounder I've had. God knows why I moved them on.
for real stopping power go for a 10 footer 3lb / 3.25 and line with little stretch. You may find just spooling up with little stretch line or braid (if allowed) will eradicate your problem.
Have had the 12ft air curve in 3.5 and they were lovely rods, probably the best all rounder I've had. God knows why I moved them on.
In reply to Post #1
Have a look at Mark Tunley's EV range of rods . . .I have a set of the EV-3 110's and they are perfect for my needs. (3lb tc approx - 3oz ideal casting weight)
Was originally after a set of custom Harrisons but after a lot of conversation he actually convinced me that the EV's were definitely something I should consider . .
Quality blanks (without the label/price tag) and custom made without the leadtime - he even added some additional tweaks to my spec for free . . .they are medium action, crisp and accurate to cast as well as being soft enough in the top section to enjoy playing any large fish with confidence- IMHO great rods, great value.
Have a look at Mark Tunley's EV range of rods . . .I have a set of the EV-3 110's and they are perfect for my needs. (3lb tc approx - 3oz ideal casting weight)
Was originally after a set of custom Harrisons but after a lot of conversation he actually convinced me that the EV's were definitely something I should consider . .
Quality blanks (without the label/price tag) and custom made without the leadtime - he even added some additional tweaks to my spec for free . . .they are medium action, crisp and accurate to cast as well as being soft enough in the top section to enjoy playing any large fish with confidence- IMHO great rods, great value.
In reply to Post #2
Personally I'd go for a lighter test curve rod agree 100%
my 2.75lb Century NG s are fantastic snag rods and great stopping power !!
SIMPLE TEST for non believers
set up some scales use 3.5lb test rods see how much you can pull
then a thru action 2.75 rod and you will see how much more you can pull
Personally I'd go for a lighter test curve rod agree 100%
my 2.75lb Century NG s are fantastic snag rods and great stopping power !!
SIMPLE TEST for non believers
set up some scales use 3.5lb test rods see how much you can pull
then a thru action 2.75 rod and you will see how much more you can pull