Stillwater GT4000 Baitfeeder reel – now just £19.99
The Stillwater GT4000 Baitfeeder reel is one of the most popular reels of 2010 and now it’s even better value thanks to a £45 saving on the full RRP.
It’s a ‘hybrid’ reel that sits in-between a big carp reel and a match reel and borrows the best features from both areas – the power, spool size, and guts of a big carp reel, in the compact size of a match/feeder reel.
They have an RRP of £64.99 but were previously on sale for £29.99 which was incredible in itself, but we’ve managed to get you another £10 knocked off the previous selling price!
The 4000 size is perfect when shorter, lighter rods are being used for stalking carp and has found favour with commercial matchmen fishing tactics like the method feeder, PVA bags, pellet cones, and also specimen chub and barbel anglers.
The GT4000 features great line lay and a big spool for longer casts, and it also has bags of power for controlling big fish.
“When I first saw these reels earlier in the year I knew they would quickly become best-sellers, and I’ve not been wrong,” said Angling Times’ Steve Fitzpatrick.
“They simply tick all the boxes in terms of size, build quality, and with them on offer at £29.99 they were a great buy for all commercial match, pleasure, pike, and carp anglers.
“With a further £10 off the offer price this really is a deal not to miss out on.”
For more details on this great reel, click HERE
New fly fishing tackle offers are now online in our shop
SAVE £128 ON SHAKESPEARE STILLWATER FLY OUTFITS
Game anglers looking for a tackle bargain can now take advantage of our new reader offers shop with two new deals online today.
Recommended by the team at Trout Fisherman magazine, there are two Shakespeare Odyssey fly rod and reel outfits on offer, designed for catching trout from day ticket stillwaters.
The first set consists of a Shakespeare Odyssey 9ft 6/7wt rod, and to go with it you’ll receive an SGT2 reel plus spare spool, fly lines, backing, flies, a double sided, clear view fly box, tackle bag and landing net.
The second deal is a lightweight fly outfit and consists of a Shakespeare Odyssey 8ft 6in 5/6weight rod which is a great river rod which will also find favour with anglers who love fishing nymphs and dry flies on small stillwater pools.
Both sets have an RRP of £188, but are available to gofishingoffers.co.uk users for just £60 - a saving of £128!
Trout Fisherman editor Russell Hill said: “These sets are perfect for those intimate day ticket stillwaters, are deals no trout angler can’t afford to miss out on.”
The 8ft 6in 5/6 weight kit is available HERE
The 9ft 6/7 weight kit can be found HERE
Maver Abyss X rods selling like the proverbial hot cakes
Maver has reported record product sales for its new Abyss X rods, just three months after launching the budget-priced range at its September trade show.
As many manufacturers continue to struggle during the traditionally slow winter trading period, the Redditch-based company by contrast has been fighting to keep up with the unprecedented demand from customers for the nine-strong selection of match and feeder rods.
So much so, in fact, that orders for the Abyss X range over the past three months have outstripped sales of any rods that Maver has released in its history.
“They are selling like the proverbial hot cakes!” is how Maver supremo Phil Briscoe described the best start to a product launch that his company had ever seen.
“At the end of day, it’s as simple as this ¬ these rods have been grossly under-priced. When you look at their build quality, plus the high specifications of the fittings, and consider that all the blanks are constructed using the highest grades of carbon, with no added glass, they represent great value for money. My only concern is how long I can maintain the current prices,” added Phil.
The comprehensive series of Abyss X rods consists of five match rods and four feeder models. Six of the nine are built on two-piece blanks that look and feel ideal for targeting commercial fisheries using pellet waggler and Method feeder or straight lead tactics.
The three remaining rods have been designed as more traditional three-piece tools which, although perfectly-suited for commercials, will also be ideal for use on natural venues, such as rivers and larger lakes.
Designed for all levels of angling ability and subjected to months of thorough fieldtesting, the new Abyss X rods all boast impressively slim and light black and blue carbon blanks, quality line guides, graphite screw lock reel seat fittings, EVA and cork handles and folding hook keeper rings.
With a sweet through action and an impressive recovery speed, they really do look and feel like rods costing a great deal more than the asking price.
In a nutshell, it’s easy to see why Maver has scored a huge home run with the Abyss X range - they are quite simply unbelievable rods for the price!
12 Deals of Christmas – Treat yourself to a new year deal
There ise just one day left in Angling Times’ 12 Deals of Christmas – so it’s time to get your orders in quickly if you want your item to arrive before Christmas!
With the countdown now on to the December 18 closing date we’re urging anglers to order now or risk missing out on a dozen incredible deals on new tackle items.
There’s something for every angler on offer too with an limited deal on the new Avanti seatbox for just £200 (saving £800), carbon float and feeder rods for just £25 (saving £75), a twin top barbel rod for £15, plus loads of great stocking fillers, including a match reel and amazing tackle storage box sets from just a fiver.
Also online now is the new Avanti Electron Power Active 16m pole package – the UK’s best value 16m pole, plus a Van Den Eynde Winter Bait Pack for £10.
Order now at www.gofishingoffers.co.uk.
THE 12 DEALS OF CHRISTMAS
DEAL 1 – Van Den Eynde Winter Bait Pack for £10
Over £26 worth of Van Den Eynde and Bait-Tech soft boilies, Aqua Colour bait dyes, and Liquid flavourings - ideal for stillwaters.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 2 – CK Complete Storage boxes – prices from just £5
Two sizes of high density, storage boxes perfect for pole fishing rig bits, waggler float gear, feeders and leads, carp rig accessories, and sea terminal tackle. Supplied with hooklength boxes with rig boards, four multi-compartment rig accessory boxes, and 10 removable dividers.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 3 – Avanti GTR3000 Match reel for £5
A great stocking filler reel for float and feeder fishing. Comes with a spare spool too.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 4 - Carbon feeder rod for just £25!
A 12ft Power Feeder rod designed for fishing with groundbait, pellet, and method feeders on commercials.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 5 - Eurorunner Excel 500 carp and pike reel - £10
This is one of the UK’s biggest selling carp reels and it’s been revamped for 2011 with an improved freespool facility, more lightweight body and new front drag system.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 6 – £1,000 pole package for £200
Limited deal of just 200 poles, the new Electron Power Active 16m pole package has every extra you need. Loads of spare kits, a power No 4 section, butt extension, and holdall.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 7 – 13ft Carbon Power Waggler rod for £25
Get a full carbon, £100 float rod for just £25 while stocks last! Anglers who fish the rivers, or want to fish a float down the edge will love it!
ORDER HERE
DEAL 8 – Avanti seatbox and FREE wheelkit with bump bar
RRP £999.99 Limited offer price £200 – there are just 100 of these boxes up for grabs in a never to be repeated deal – make sure you get yours.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 9 – Margin Pole for £30
Avanti’s Hyperactive Power Margin is a real hit and hold pole for handling even the biggest carp at close quarters. Also fits the new 16m Avanti Electron Power Active pole – great for extra kits and spares!
ORDER HERE
DEAL 10 – Cyclotherm Hooded Fleeces
Described simply as the best fleeces you’ll ever buy for £20. Available in match blue or carpers green they are guaranteed to keep you warm this winter.
ORDER HERE
DEAL 11 – Fleece hat, gloves, and neckwarmer set for £5
What a terrific trio this is – a top quality beanie hat, fleece neckwarmer, and a pair of fleece gloves – a must-have for all winter fishing!
ORDER HERE
DEAL 12 – Twin Tip Specimen/Method rod – NOW £15
We’ve knocked another tenner off this £89.99 multi function rod – but stocks are strictly limited.
ORDER HERE
Save £800 on a new fishing seatbox system
Match tackle giants Avanti have launched a complete seatbox system this week and are billing it as the ‘box bargain of the season’.
And with £800 off the full RRP plus a wheelkit/barrow conversion kit thrown in for free it would be hard to argue!
The Avanti Modulite Deluxe seatbox is one of the most advanced systems on the market today, and is on sale for a special offer price of just £200 from www.gofishingoffers.com
Just 100 of these boxes will be up for grabs in a strictly limited offer – when they’ve gone, that’s it!
The Avanti Modulite Deluxe box system is based upon a ‘skeleton’ mainframe which is a solid base to build a box from and features fully customisable seat and drawers on top of the frame, plus a cassette style, slide out, stacking system below.
Underneath this is a sliding footplate which gives the box even more rigidity and comfort on the bank, with six adjustable legs providing stability on any terrain, plus the ability to bolt on accessories like pole and rod rests, keepnet arms, and side trays.
Angling Times’ Steve Fitzpatrick was the first to see this new box, and was impressed.
“You will not find a seatbox system as complete, well built, or practical as this anywhere for £200,” he admitted.
“Throw in the wheelkit/barrow conversion kit and you’ve got an easy to transport system too.
The Avanti Modulite Deluxe seatbox is just one of 12 Deals of Christmas on www.gofishingoffers.com this week.
There’s something for every angler on offer with carbon float and feeder rods for just £25 (saving £75), plus loads of great stocking fillers, including a match reel and amazing tackle storage box sets from just a fiver.
They’re all online now – get your order in quickly.
Sonubaits release bait range that's perfect for winter carp
Sonubaits Supercrush F1 Groundbait, F1 Soft Hooker Pellets and F1 Liquid Flavouring are the perfect combination for targeting shy-biting carp from commercials in the depths of winter.
Designed and field-tested by leading matchmen Tommy Pickering and Des Shipp, the groundbait is a sweet blend of fishmeals and crushed pellets boasting prolonged holding power, which is easy to mix and binds well to a Method feeder, while also breaking down quickly in even the coldest temperatures.
It can be used in the feeder, balled in or cupped in as slop and costs £5.99 per 2kg bag.
The hooker pellets are quite dark and oily, giving lots of leakage, and are also tough enough to be hair-rigged. The 4mm and 6mm versions are ideal for F1s, small carp and skimmers, the 8mm ones are for larger fish. They are supplied in a robust tub with a strong seal, which will keep them fresh for months after opening, and cost £2.99 per tub.
Finally, the company’s F1 liquid (£2.99 for 250ml) can either be added to the groundbait or used in a pellet pump to pull the fish back into your swim once the bites have dried up.
Drennan release fantastic new budget rod and reel range
Oxford-based tackle giant Drennan International has released a brand new budget level collection of rods and reels under the banner of ‘The Red Range’.
Representing superb value for money, the line-up features four new carbon rods costing just £49.95 each and two money-saving rear drag reels retailing for just £19.99 apiece.
The attractively-priced range of rods comprises a Carp Waggler (available in 11ft and 12ft) and a Carp Feeder (10ft and 11ft), which have been designed predominately as commercial fishery tools and aimed squarely at the newcomer or novice angler who can now buy a high quality Drennan-branded rod without breaking the bank. That said, the pair would also make great all-round coarse rods, suitable for everything from float fishing for tench in the spring to tip fishing for chub on winter rivers.
Both the Waggler and Feeder rods are constructed from two-piece dark maroon carbon blanks that enable them to be easily transported between sessions already made up.
The playing action on the rods is very similar ¬ progressive through the upper section, but soft enough to cope with big fish. The Carp Feeder rods come with two push-in quivertips rated at 2oz and 3oz.
The Red Range 6-30 sized Float and larger sized 6-40 Feeder reels are very similar in specification to Drennan’s highly successful and best-selling Series 7 reels that were launched earlier this year.
Each reel is supplied with two graphite spools that have been built to hold 100 m etres of line. Spools feature a depression and groove that allows the mainline to be attached to the spool and then loaded with mono without causing any snagging or bumping in the spool’s line-lay.
Interchangeable rubber line breaking strain grommets fit into a recess in each spool head, allowing you to instantly know what line you are using.
A demure red and black matt colour scheme betrays the reels’ modest pricing structure, as does their super-smooth six ball-bearing operation. A very positive chunky bail-arm with an oversized line roller, flat folding ambidextrous handle and push-button spools complete the list of features on the Red Range of reels that, like the Red Range rods, are sure to be flying off tackle shop shelves over the next few months.
Avanti launch Baby Freespool Match reel
Top match brand Avanti have launched a new Baby Freespool reel which bridges the gap between match and big carp reels.
The Stand & Deliver FS3000 is a match-sized reel which has all the benefits of a freespool facility normally found on bigger, heavier carp reels.
It’s a compact unit that packs loads of power through the gears, and is ideally suited for using on power float and feeder rods for tactics such as method feeder, straight bomb with pellets, small PVA bags on commercials, stalking, tench float fishing and even a spot of chub and barbel on the rivers.
The freespool system is multi adjustable and will allow you to fish bite and run style tactics without risking breakages. In fact, it’s a one-stop reel for the modern commercial fishery and allround angler.
RRP is £49.99 but you can get them from gofishingoffers.co.uk for just £10 plus p&p.
“For bomb, PVA bag, and method anglers this reel is a ‘must-have’ this season,” said Angling Times’ Steve Fitzpatrick.
Get your copy of 1000 Greatest Fishing Tips book for Christmas
The new 1000 Greatest Fishing Tips book, from the makers of Angling Times, is available now!
This fantastic book provides you with a wealth of fantastic fishing information, hints and tips to arm you with all the necessary info to get more from any fishing situation.
A copy could be yours in time for Christmas, if you order this week online right HERE.
The book costs £11.99, inclusive of postage and packing.
In the book you'll find tips to help you catch more carp, chub, bream, barbel, tench, roach, pike and perch - among other species - helping you to fill your keepnet or catch a bigger fish than ever before.
All the usual methods and techniques are covered, from using multiple rod set-ups and advanced bait tactics, right through to the simplest forms of fishing like freelining and surface fishing.
Angling Times editor Richard Lee said: "It's the most comprehensive collection of fishing tips ever put together - it's an absolute must for every coarse angler."
Wychwood Ruckman box – HALF PRICE DEAL!
Carp and pike anglers will love today’s new tackle deal on gofishingoffers.co.uk – a HALF PRICE Wychwood Maximiser Ruckman Box.
A great hybrid tackle item which many carp, pike, specimen, and pleasure anglers will love keeping next to their chairs or inside their shelters.
They sell for £79.99, but we’ve got a limited number for just £39.99 plus p&p – that’s half price.
It has all the benefits of a storage carryall bag with the strength of a sturdy aluminium frame to keep it rigid on the bank and provide a stable base for tackle storage, rig making and baiting up.
Lift the lid and there’s a drop in bivvy table for you to tie rigs while underneath is the main compartment which houses a large Wychwood tackle box with room for loads more gear, bait tubs, and even a few butties!
“This is a hard working tackle bag/box which will not only organise your tackle but make sure you can access it easily and transport it to the bank without breaking your back,” said Angling Times’ Steve Fitzpatrick.
The new Shimano Tribal Longcast carp rod really hits the mark
Launched earlier this year, the Shimano Tribal carp rods are thought by many top carp anglers to be the finest rods the company has produced to date.
There are three rods in the range - Carp, Longcast and Extreme - each of which is available in various test curves, and all of which have been manufactured using Shimano’s new HPC (high pressure carbon) procedure, hailed by many as a major breakthrough in rod design.
The process is claimed to improve the blank’s overall strength by more than 50 per cent - and without compromising its action.
Other new features on the Longcast rods include large diameter 50mm SiC butt guides that prevent ‘frap-ups’ (line wrapping around the butt guide on the cast), as well specially designed smooth-profile tip rings that prevent the reel line from catching during the cast.
Finished with an easy-grip handle that incorporates an oversized screw lock and 1k carbon reel seat, the thin profile of the demure blank matches elegantly with the sleek lightweight lined guides, giving the whole rod a modern-yet-classic understated look.
For the live test I had chosen to use the standard 12ft, 3lb test curve version of the Tribal Longcast range, as this length and test curve of blank is by far the most popular size of modern carp rods sold in this country today.
And, if they were going to prove to me that they are worth the £199 asking price, then they would need to be able to provide me with enough casting power to propel a good-sized lead and solid PVA bag a decent distance. All this while providing enough softness and subtlety to safely play out any double figure fish hooked at long range without ripping the hook out.
Carping in the colder water conditions of early winter can still be very productive, provided you adhere to a couple of golden rules.
First you will have to spend a little time finding them. Signs include any large flat spots, ‘bubblers’ and coloured areas of water, as well as the more obvious ‘head and shouldering’. In short, as long as you can find them and reach them, then they are most certainly still catchable in even the harshest of conditions.
The above scenario is exactly what happened when I took the Shimano rods with me to Peterborough’s prolific Maxey Lake, where I found the fish showing themselves at a range of between 90 and 100yds - perfect for seeing if the Longcast rods could really live up to their name. Both rods had been coupled with new Shimano Baitrunner XTR 1000 RA reels loaded with quick sinking 12lb Shimano Technium line.
The end rig incorporated a small brightly coloured hair-rigged hookbait, with a 3oz inline lead placed inside a small, solid PVA bag filled with pellets. Holding the rod directly above my head I pushed my weight forward, pulling my left hand quickly into my chest, while punching my right arm forward, causing the blank to fully compress and sending the payload sailing out across the water, hitting the 100yd mark with ease. First cast, and I was already mightily impressed.
In spite of its ‘grunt’, the tip of the rod was still soft enough to feel the weight of the bag hit the lakebed and before I even had the chance to bait up and cast out the second rod, I was in!
The Longcast handled the spirited fight of the upper double-figure common with aplomb, all the while plenty of feeling being transmitted through the blank, without it ever feeling sloppy or soft.
This was a scenario that was to be repeated a staggering 15 times over the next three hours, with the end result the same on each occasion. As the light began to fade, I packed up a tired, but very happy man.
My final verdict on the Shimano Tribal Longcast? In a nutshell, it’s a great-looking rod boasting impressive hidden reserves of power, yet one which still retains a superb fish-playing action that is perfectly matched to the rod’s test curve.
New miniature drop-off alarm set to take the predator world by storm
A new miniature drop-off bite alarm has hit the market, offering predator fishing fans a combination of perfect indication and superb value for money all in one neat and robust little package.
The super-lightweight and weatherproof ‘999 alarm’ has been invented and built by big eel supremo Barry McConnell and can be attached to either the fishing rod or bankstick via a small and easy-to-fit rubber bracket.
It comes with a red LED light, adjustable line clip and batteries, and works via a tilt-switch mechanism next to the line clip, which is attached in such a way that it is raised above horizontal. When the line is pulled out of the clip, or in the case of a drop-back bite, falls down, the movement of the flex activates the tilt switch and the LED alarm.
The indicator, which when attached to the rod tucks neatly out of the way and doesn’t hinder casting out or winding in, is particularly handy for roving and stalking sessions where the rod can simply be laid on the ground.
It will also find favour with boat anglers, where space aboard is often at a premium and the use of bank sticks is not an option.
The 999 alarm costs just £9.99 and is powered by two inexpensive hearing aid batteries (supplied, but replacements are widely available for around 30p each). To order, log on to www.zandavan.co.uk. A YouTube clip of how to use the alarms is also available to view on the website.
Packbaits revolutionary fishing bait 'will double catch rates'
Secret recipes capable of more than doubling the catch rates of some of the sport’s most popular baits are set to take the UK angling market by storm.
Packbaits is a concept used for many years by anglers in the United States.
The bait combines cheap ingredients found in high street shops, such as breakfast cereals, sweet soft drinks, rice and creamed corn, to create devastating groundbaits that can then be moulded around a fishing lead very much like a Method style of fishing, and has been responsible for tempting staggering hauls of carp to 2,700lb in a session on the other side of the Atlantic.
Now, after spending more than two years researching and field testing the bait in the US, carp angler Jason Cann and bait guru Frank Warwick are preparing to launch the phenomenon on the British market with a company that will create a range of baits catering for everyone, from specimen to commercial match anglers.
Jason has spent the last three months with a team of American anglers head to head field testing some of the UK’s most popular brands of boilies, pellets and artificial baits, against some of the 90 different mixes of Packbaits. According to the specimen anglers testing the baits in rivers around New York and the state of Carolina, the results have been astounding, filling the duo with the confidence to say that the new bait will improve catch rates across the board, and change the way that anglers think about bait for good.
“I fished a 24-hour pairs match against the Americans and in that time they had landed 45 fish using Packbaits to our seven,” said Jason. “I’d been using my best rigs, methods and baits that are tried and tested in the UK.
It was mind-blowing.
“This baiting concept has landed me English carp to 36lb and huge specimens in Europe to 66lb, but Packbaits aren’t just big-fish catchers. Match teams in the US have amassed huge weights of single-figure fish to over 2,700lb in 48 hours.
“I’ve spent two years perfecting every detail of this new project and I’m now almost ready to lift the lid on the UK version of the phenomenon that is Packbaits.”
Frank Warwick has been at the forefront of bait innovation for years, pioneering high-attract hookbaits such as ‘fluoro’ pop-ups and brightly-coloured artificial offerings - and the revolutionary new liquid hookbaits called Gel Baits.
“When I first saw Packbaits in action in the States I couldn’t believe my eyes. I threw all my spare clothes away, so I could cram enough of the ingredients into my case to bring home,” said Frank, who is launching the company to distribute Packbaits with Jason Cann.
“Anglers of all ages and abilities will be able to apply it to their fishing and I guarantee they will be amazed by the results.” The website packbaits.com is currently being set up, with an early 2011 launch date.
Angling Times editor field tests the new Frenzee bomb rod
When the first post arrived in the AT office - 9.30am on a wet Tuesday - there was little to quicken the heartbeat, and the best offer of the morning looked to be the first brew of the day from Doris on the tea urn.
Then behind me came the unmistakable squeak of the delivery trolley - front right has trouble with its bearings.
‘Angling Times - package from Frenzee!’ came the call. It was a big package too. This was no pole pot or accessory - judging by the cardboard coffin this was a stash of new rods.
I don’t test much gear these days - I’m too busy staving off the bean counters from accounts, or playing political correctness with Human Resources department (where did that lot creep up on the world from?) But as the cardboard casket was opened and the sleeved rods removed one by one, there were two pieces of carbon that caught my eye.
‘That’s definitely got my name on it!’ my eager mind announced as I hastily tried to plot how I could get my hands on it before realising I was actually the boss and greed had never stopped me before.
It was the latest 10ft bomb rod - super-sleek, stick-thin, and capable of sending headshakes through your arm as if they were electrified.
I’ve had a few bomb rods in my time. The orginal Sigma Wand from Shakespeare, then there was a little weapon from Wayahead, and the twin top
IM8 from Drennan. All superb pieces of kit in their day, but no longer in active service.
I kicked my chair away from the desk, careered across the corridor, and in one clean motion swept the rod from the arms of my features editor Steve Stones.
“I’d be leaving that one to me if I was you,’ came the order as I shuffled back to the computer.
“I’m going to catch roach on it - just like in the good old days,” I vowed.
And so the meticulous plan was hatched.
I’d teamed up the Frenzee Precision alongside some of the best products on the market today. A Daiwa TDR reel, loaded with the brilliant new Preston Innovations Power Max line in 4lb, a 16g Drennan maggot feeder, 0.11mm Reflo hooklength, and a size 18 B560 Kamasan wide-gape swept point hook.
I’d decided to target silverfish at my local carp water Bluebell Lakes, in Tansor. Bluebell is a favourite haunt of most of the boys on the paper as, away from the huge mirrrors and commons that most people travel for, are an abundance of alternative species. Including lovely, plump roach.
I settled down on my seatbox, picked out a far-bank tree stump as a marker to aim for, clipped up the spool at 25yds, and began casting my maggot feeder, crammed with whites and reds, into the 14ft deep swim. I cast regularly for the first hour to build up the swim. Despite a howling crosswind, the delicate bomb rod was able to punch the light feeder through the north-easterly ensuring it landed on the money every cast.
I used to find ‘wands’ a little gutless in the mid-section, a common failing that could often lead to misplaced casts when you were pushing the carbon to the limit, but the Frenzee showed none of this ‘jelliness’.
As with gravel pit roach in winter, you just have to keep plugging away until the witching hour arrives. I can’t really explain what happens - perhaps it’s light density - but from a dead peg you suddenly get a bite-a-chuck. Its not that the fish have arrived - everyone gets bites at the same time - its some form of natural trigger that sends fish wild.
Just after lunch (an out-of-date Ginsters pastie that could have well been made from the Frenzee coffin lid) the first roach topped in the ripple and this was followed minutes later by a flicker of the quiver. I’d opted for the 1oz carbon tip - it comes with 0.5oz and 1.5oz alternatives - and although it clearly registered, I was too late manoeuv-ring myself for the strike.
A quick retrieve and rebait and I was back out, this time leaving the duplon/cork hybrid handle across my knee in preparation for the bite.
A micro flick of the quiver developed into two steady pulls and I lifted straight into her - the compact nature of the rod meaning I just avoided snaring the reeds around me - short rods are a massive advantage in tight pegs you’ll encounter at many UK stillwaters.
The rod held a most perfect curve - this was a cracking piece of progressive carbon, ideal for the lunges of big silverfish - but there was still a reserve of power. There was never a sense of being under-gunned.
On just a small, fine-wire hook, I’d have been worried about bouncing big silvers off at the net, but the outcome was never in doubt. First fish of the day was a roach pushing the 2lb mark - what a way to christen a piece of kit!
And the fish simply kept coming. As a balanced set-up - rod, reel, line - this is the finest outfit for roach I’d ever used, such was the sensitivity and my trust in every component’s design.
I’ve never wanted a day’s work to carry on so much in my life. Big roach on a pencil-thin rod that delivers a pulse to the fingers allowing you to feel every kick and lunge has to go down as the ultimate in angling. But then again, I am from ‘up north’ and us northern lads love big roach.
Cosmetically, the rod is simplistic and understated - finished in black and featuring quality lined guides. But then so are most carbon rods these days.
Having a bomb rod in the holdall isn’t about lording it up with graphics, etched butt caps and hi-tech reel seats - this is about being a proper angler, someone who doesn’t just want pounds and ounces in his net, but also a big, contented smile on their face.
Frenzee is starting to make a name for itself in the market after initially launching with accessories, and if its other rods live up to the Precision 10ft Bomb Rod (RRP £139.99), then I suggest you check out the range. Trust me, you’ll love ‘em.
ABU release new range of match and pleasure fishing reels
There was a time not so long ago when it seemed that any angler worth his salt ¬ from top matchmen to cutting-edge carpers ¬ possessed an Abu Garcia Cardinal reel.
After a spell in the doldrums, the iconic manufacturer has now moved to reclaim lost ground by improving and expanding its range of models available to the UK market for 2011.
The company’s new portfolio of fixed spool and freespool reels caters for the needs of match, specimen and carp anglers alike, and combines solid build quality with all the add-on features the modern-day angler has become accustomed to, including infinite anti-reverse, bombproof bail-arm systems, multiple bearings and spare spools as standard.
There are more than 30 different models in the 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 series of reels, all of which are available as both front and rear drag.
This week, Angling Times put one reel from each series through its paces, and was mightily impressed with the findings. Make no mistake, Abu Garcia is back!
Cardinal C504i SDH
More compact front drag version of the C506i, with a 5.1:1 ratio and seven bearings. Comes with a shallow braid spool and deeper spare spool. Great all-round speci reel or match feeder workhorse. RRP£89.99
Cardinal 104i Front Drag Match Version
Front drag match reel with great aesthetics. Powerful 5.1:1 retrieve, two shallow aluminium spools, plus a deeper graphite spool. Great all round float and feeder reel. RRP£49.99
Cardinal 206i
Front Drag Double-handled front drag model. Weighing almost 400g and with a capacity of 250m of 12lb line, would make a great specimen, predator or even carp reel. Comes with a spare graphite spool. RRP£47.99
Cardinal 304i Rear Drag
All-round match and pleasure fishing reel boasting classy gun metal and silver livery. Has six bearings, a single handle, weighs just over 300g and features quick-release push button spools. RRP£55.99
Cardinal 404i Match
The most expensive of Abu’s dedicated match reels. Has eight bearings, weighs 342g, has a retrieve ratio of 5.1:1 and comes supplied with two shallow aluminium match spools, plus a deeper graphite spare spool. RRP£75.99
Cardinal 55 Free Runner
Freespool reel with 12 bearings, a carbon matrix drag system, front drag plus micro-adjustable freespool rear drag. Comes with two long taper aluminium spools taking 200m of 15lb line. RRP£72.99
Korum rig packs take the hassle out of piking
Ever fancied having a go at pike fishing but you’re unsure how to construct a safe and strong rig? Well, tackling-up for the species has now never been easier thanks to the new Snapper range from Korum.
As the predator season gets into full swing, the forward-thinking company has launched a range of ‘Easy Pike Rig’ packs containing everything needed to assemble the perfect float set-up, including all the necessary beads, swivels, weights and rubber float stops.
All that remains is to tie on a wire trace below the cocking weight of the float ¬ and the company also has this angle covered with its readymade Snapper Snap Tackle semi-barbed pike traces.
There are five different ‘Easy Pike Rig’ float options and four sizes of Snap Tackle traces, making it easy to pick the perfect combination for the bait being used and venue being fished.
As you’d expect, all the products have been constructed from top-quality, super-strong materials, which won’t let you down when battling with that personal-best pike. Indeed, the floats seem nigh-on indestructible, which is more than can be said for many pike floats on the market. All in all, a clever and well-thought-out range that looks sure to be a big seller this winter.
Korum Snapper Dura Bung Pike Floats
Two ideal all-round pike float patterns are available in the Snapper range, the Bung and the Dumpy Float. Both are inline models, making them perfect for presenting both livebaits and deadbaits. The Bung is slightly the more buoyant of the two, meaning it will be particularly well-suited to livebait fishing where keeping the bait out of weed and other obstructions is key.
Like the Dumpy float, it can also be used for trotting and paternostering baits.
Each Easy Pike Rig pack contains one Dura-Bung float, three medium float stops, one swivel, four small 4mm beads, a buffer bead and one non-toxic sinker. Both the Bung and Dumpy Float come in 12g and 18g options, and are priced at £4.99 per pack.
Korum Snapper Pencil Float 25g
A bottom end only float designed to provide ultra sensitive bite indication for predators when fishing legered deadbaits on stillwaters, canals and slow-moving rivers. By setting the float a foot or so overdepth and then tightening down to it until it cocks, the Snapper Pencil will transmit the slightest indication that a pike is inspecting the bait. More often than not it will lift up out of the water and lie flat on the surface on the take.
Just one 25g version is available, which comes supplied with three medium Korum float stops, four small 4mm beads, a buffer bead, a swivel and a sinker weight. The Snapper Pencil Float pack costs £4.99.
Korum Snapper Snap Tackle Pike Traces
Designed for use with the Dura Bung range, the readymade Snapper Snap Tackle Pike Traces take all the hassle and uncertainty out of constructing a suitable terminal rig for big pike.
Each of the trebles on the traces contains a single barbed hook for holding the bait securely and two barbless hooks for easy and safe removal from fish on the bank. These are attached to super-strong coated 30lb trace wire with a low glare finish. Each treble has also been covered with a small rubber sleeve at each crimp, a nice touch which not only neatens everything up but also increases the security of the rig.
The readymade traces are all 20ins long and are available in four hook sizes ¬ 4, 6, 8 and 10.
RRP £2.99 each.
MAP unveils unique Parabolix luggage range for 2011
Fed up with lugging a carryall the size of a garden shed around every weekend? MAP’s new Parabolix Sti luggage range might just be the answer to your prayers!
Rather than going down the traditional carryall route of a single large compartment, which so often ends up in an annoying mass of tangled catapults and reel cases, the Redditch firm has devised an innovative fold-out system consisting of separate zip-up sections that not only makes access quick and easy, but ensures every item of tackle has its own safe and secure place.
The main carryall is made up of four compartments earmarked for stashing keepnets and landing net heads in an open front pocket, with a zipped-off pocket behind for side trays and bait waiters. Pole rollers and tripods go in the next part, with accessories such as catapults, pellet pumps and float tubes in another. The unit is finished off with a lay-flat insulated slot for small bait tubs and bags of prepared expander pellets, luncheon meat and the like.
With that in mind it’s no surprise that the luggage is aimed at the angler fishing commercial fisheries week in, week out who doesn’t need to take masses of tackle to their peg, and in all probability will be using the same items of kit each time. With the Parabolix Sti, everything is in its place and easy to find.
“The problem with old-style carryalls is that if you need something at the bottom of the bag you need to take everything else out to get at it!” said MAP’s Mike Robinson. “This system keeps everything in order so you know where things are every time you go out. The carryall, when folded up, is held in place by two secure clips on the front net pocket, with each compartment stacking neatly on top of the next one.” To go with the carryall, the range also features smaller insert accessory bags to fit inside each main compartment, ideal for storing items such as spare reel spools, tubs of pellets and pole socks, plus a padded reel case.
Several catapults will fit neatly inside a dedicated catty bag ¬ all made from the hardest-wearing, most rugged material currently available for angling luggage.
There’s also a brilliant boot bag for muddy wellies, which features a foam lid that, when unzipped, folds back to provide you with something to stand on when you’re in your socks ¬ no more hopping around with a shoe in one hand and a boot in the other!
The full range of luggage will be in the shops around February next year, with the carryall costing £79.99, catapult bags, accessory insert bags and reel cases at £6.99 apiece, and the boot bag at £24.99.
The pole roller and accessory bag that make up the main carryall can be bought separately at £14.99 and £16.99 respectively.
Bennetts closes doors as the recession bites
Britain’s most famous tackle shop has closed its doors for the last time as the recession continues to grip the sport.
Yorkshire’s legendary Bennetts of Sheffield was one of the pioneers of mail order and has supplied hundreds of thousands of anglers over its illustrious 56-year history.
Managing director Harry Peck told Angling Times that the business simply couldn’t keep banging its head against a brick wall and needed to call time on trading before the company reserves were exhausted.
“There are numerous reasons why trading has become harder and harder, but ultimately you can’t continue to make a loss. At some stage you have to take a responsible stance and say enough is enough.”
Famous for pioneering credit terms for anglers to pay-off gear on a weekly basis, the family concern was created by respected match anglers Harry and Peter Bennett. Originally working on the railways, the national championship winners used to organise matchfishing trips by rail with over 3,000 men travelling together to the River Witham from Sheffield on a weekend.
It was this connection with fishermen that prompted the creation of Bennetts of Sheffield, as well as a successful exhibition company.
In recent times the mail order angling business has become highly competitive, and a disastrous flood in 2007, that saw the city and the shop under water, compounded problems.
Harry explained: “I suppose when Peter Bennett passed away five years ago some of the shop’s sparkle disappeared too. Pointing the finger at any single issue would be impossible as a number of factors have come to the fore. The flood that disrupted business and the subsequent lack of government support was hard to recover from. Then there was the postal strike and many customers thought we couldn’t distribute tackle when in fact we actually use other carriers.
“Moving on from that, the recession has taken its toll and continues to blight consumer confidence, and the failure by some tackle companies to supply gear this year has meant we’ve been forced to disappoint anglers even though we printed catalogues in good faith.
“Despite the claimed green shoots of recovery we couldn’t see any evidence of improving trading conditions and in the end it was time to close our doors.
“We’ve had to say goodbye to 25 loyal staff, which has been emotional, but their support has been second to none.”
The business is now in creditors’ voluntary liquidation and Angling Times understands bids are already being formulated for the company name, assets and database of anglers.
Coldwater formula groundbaits arrive in UK
The best-selling ground-bait in the world is due to hit UK tackle shops early next month.
Having dominated the Far East market for a number of years, Japanese bait giant Marukyu is now on the verge of launching its radical EFG 130 and EFG 161 ‘coldwater’ formula groundbaits in this country.
The EFG130 (All Temperature Formula) uses a secret blend of seaweeds and kelps called Nori as its main attractor, alongside 22 other ingredients, while the other new arrival, EF 161 (Method Special) is Marukyu’s biggest selling bait in China, contains 28 different ingredients and is designed to work with all Method moulds and in all swimfeeders.
Former England international match angler Roy Marlow, who is now UK development director for Marukyu, said: “We make baits to catch fish, and not to feed fish. As well as the unique ingredients, the different sizes and compressions of the tiny particles in the groundbaits means they all break down at different speeds. The feeding ‘triggers’ in EFG 130 are not only great for carp, but also tench, bream, chub and barbel, which all find the bait irresistible. The EFG 161 on the other hand has had the silverfish ‘triggers’ removed, making it more of an out-and-out carp bait.”
Some anglers will be surprised to learn that the new Marukyu baits will retail at a hefty £6.99 per 900g bag, but according to Roy, you get what you pay for.
“Some anglers spend thousands on their tackle, but then skimp on their bait. It doesn’t matter how flash your tackle is ¬ if your bait’s rubbish, you won’t catch much. Because of the huge amount of attractants in the Marukyu baits, you don’t need to use as much ¬ attraction is the key. Another bonus with these baits is that they don’t need riddling because of the way they have been designed. The benefits are numerous,” said Roy.
Maryuku EFG 130 and EFG 161 are due to be in shops by the first week in December.
Frenzee unveils its first rod range
Sneak preview of the range that’s set to wow anglers Following 18 months of painstaking development, Powys-based tackle company Frenzee has launched a stunning new range of state-of-the-art rods. Since starting up in 2008, the firm has rapidly developed a faithful following among match and pleasure anglers for its pole floats, cupping pots, luggage and swimfeeders ¬ a reaction which looks set to continue with its new seven-strong range of Precision rods.
Built from 30 tonne high modulus carbon cloth, all the blanks boast progressive ‘anti-lock’ actions, re-enforced butt sections and SiC braid-friendly guides, and are finished with Fuji reel seats and quality cork handles. Below is a sneak preview of the range. Watch this space for exclusive live tests of the Frenzee Precision rods in coming weeks, only in Angling Times.
Precision 10ft Bomb Rod
A hugely impressive short cast bomb rod, whether you’re fishing for shy-biting silvers or carp on a commercial ¬ this bit of kit covers them all. Supplied with three push-in carbon quivertips (0.5oz, 1oz, 1.5oz), the slim 10ft blank has a flawless ‘anti lock’ action and super soft tip, making fish-playing at close quarters a dream.
RRP £139.99
Precision 11ft Light Feeder Rod
Beautifully-actioned tip rod with cosmetics to match! It’s perfect for skimmers and bream at short to medium ranges, although also suited to general feeder work on commercial carp venues thanks to the added casting power provided by the middle and butt sections. Supplied with 0.5oz, 1oz and 1.5oz carbon quivers.
RRP £139.99
Precision 12ft Medium Feeder Rod
A superb mid to long range feeder tool. Brilliant for all river uses, the blank features an increased handle length that aids casting distance, and also boasts considerable power through the middle. Supplied with slightly heavier 1.5oz, 2oz and 2.5oz carbon quivertips.
RRP £149.99
Precision 13ft Power Cast Feeder Rod
The ultimate in distance rods. The blank offers the perfect blend between power and fish-playing action, with extra reserves through the butt and mid sections. Just as suited to long range bream work as it is fishing for barbel on swollen rivers. Supplied with 2oz, 3oz and 4oz carbon tips.
RRP £159.99
Precision 11ft 6in Pellet Waggler Rod
An impressive through action coupled with a fast tip recovery speed makes this one of the big hitters in the range. Slightly longer than most pellet waggler rods at 11ft 6in, it has a short handle to enable excellent manoeuv-rability around the body. Has landed big carp to over 20lb in trials.
RRP £139.99
Precision 13ft Match Rod
This slimline blank is effortlessly light to hold, and offers a super quick tip recovery and impressive line control. Despite its dainty feel, there is more than enough playing power through the middle section to handle big fish. It can cope with anything, from running through with a delicately shotted stick float, to punching-out big wagglers and sliders.
RRP £149.99
Precision 14ft Float Rod
For ultimate control over big wagglers and hefty top and bottom floats, this rod has a crisp action and quick tip recovery speed, yet enough backbone for casting big floats. The tip section boasts enough softness to cushion the lunges of big carp, chub and barbel close to the net A beautifully-balanced tool designed with distance trotting in mind.
RRP £149.99
