PERDURABLE
Product brochure
INTRODUCTION
BASIC CONCEPT OF FREE SPIRIT ROD RANGES
It has been a little while since our last catalogue and although we have expanded our product range considerably you will still find many of the same products featured here. This is because we pride ourselves in making the best product we can, thoroughly prototyped and tested for months and sometimes years before we launch them, ensuring they stand the test of time.
The Free Spirit Fishing rod line up comprises essentially of 5 ranges. We try to offer a tool for everyone and as a relatively small and exclusive company we can develop to satisfy the most discerning and exacting customer requirements that larger companies would not be interested in. You will find many very specialised tools in our ranges to cater for such needs.
Unlike many companies we are happy to sell you one set of rods and have you use them for many years knowing that your faith in our products will bring us future sales from other anglers from your personal recommendation.
The rod ranges are briefly as follows:
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STOCKIST
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION CARP RODS SPOMB™ & SPOD MARKER RODS CREEPER, STALKING, FLOATER AND BOAT CARP RODS BARBEL & SPECIALIST RODS QUIVER TIPS PIKE & CAT RODS LANDING NETS
www.mrandmrssmithdesign.com E&OE. All the material inside is copyright to Free Spirit Fishing. No material may be reproduced without permission from Free Spirit Fishing.
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The Hi-‘S’ Range - Fast or semi-fast actions utilising perhaps the best Japanese carbon available, a Low Resin 40t with a 1k weave in 24t giving an attractive finish. Benefits are very slim, light weight but stiff blanks, crisp responsive actions that very much ‘assist’ the average caster and good caster alike and very fast tip recovery. Tips are still relatively soft to aid fish playing. The range features the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish for a lifetime of service and good looks. The range is hand built in the U.K. The ‘S’-Range - Progressive and semi-progressive actions loved by anglers wanting good casting performance but with the delights of fish playing. Very suitable all-rounders (except the X.S’ive) - blanks use top quality 36t Low Resin Japanese Carbon with a highly attractive 24t weave in 3k. The blanks have the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish to look good for many years. These are also hand built in the U.K. The ‘E’-Class ‘Gold’ - The original ‘E’-Class had a very faithful following and so this new range is more evolution than revolution. Other than the addition of two new test curves the rods are built on the same very slim blanks with semi-fast and progressive actions. We use very high modulus 40t carbon from Korea to give the best blank performance we can for the money. This range also features the ‘Perdurable’ (lifetime) blank finish. The cosmetic appearance has been updated most notably with the addition of a matching clone seat in the same 3k finish as the blank and gold tipping. The Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap - A very affordable range with progressive and semi-progressive actions similar to the ‘S’-Range that most will find suitable. Blanks are still slim and very light yet strong and feature an attractive X-Wrap cross-weave. Finished with Fuji DPS seats. Pike Tamers – Utilising slim, strong blanks with the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish to suit the hard life that these rods tend to get. Special 4 leg guides feature for extra strength. The Pike Tamers have a classy full ground blank finish.
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Low Resin Carbon
AREAS OF RESIN IN NORMAL CARBON
RESIN MUCH LESS DENSE
NORMAL CARBON
LOW RESIN CARBON
CARBON FILAMENT MORE RANDOM AND LESS DENSE PER SQUARE CM
MUCH MORE UNIFORM PATTERN OF CARBON FILAMENTS
Figure 1 COMPARISON OF NORMAL CARBON AND LOW RESIN CARBON UNDER AN ELECTRON MICROSCOPE
BLANKS & COMPONENTS
CUSTOM BUILT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL
Free Spirit Fishing designs and develops all its own blanks so these are exclusive to us. We use only the best materials available from Japan for the Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’-Range and Korea for the other ranges and do not like to use any Chinese carbons as we believe the quality of material is not suitable for our production.
We take great care to establish that all parts of product are finished to the majority of customers’ requirements but realise that this does not suit everyone. Therefore we offer a full custom building service should you require it to ensure handle lengths and other factors are perfect for you. This ensures you get the right product tailored to your individual needs.
In addition we have developed our own reel seats, guides, cork handles, EVA and fittings and are able to offer these. Free Spirit Fishing has established a certain look for its range of rods - one that has defined the appearance of the modern carp rod.
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. All the Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’-Range are hand built in the U.K. We have some of the best rod builders in the country with many years of experience assembling rods to our exact requirement. In addition to these ranges we can also custom build other rods such as the new ‘E’-Class and many other rods to your exact requirement.
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OUR NETWORK OF EXCLUSIVE DEALERS We pride ourselves on the quality of our product and service and have hand selected those shops that, in our opinion, offer the quality of service and advice that match our expectations to make the whole experience of buying our products enjoyable. A full list of our dealers and distributors can be found on our website. Since our product is also very popular overseas we have included our overseas distributor’s details.
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Common Questions
Here are common questions we are asked by customers. The answers are by no means meant to be complete but should help give guidance. Our distributors and retailers should also be able to help since we try to ensure they are well versed in the products we offer.
WHICH ROD SUITS ME? We are frequently asked to recommend a particular rod: to cater for extreme distances or big water, for a purpose or to comment on why one would be more suitable than another. We have a large and varied range to cope with all situations and tastes and this adds to the confusion for many people. So below are some pointers as to rod choice. If you want to know more about the special carbons and processes we use this is covered later under ‘the techi bit’. Since rods are very personal (and an expensive purchase particularly if you make the wrong choice) we would recommend you spend some time confirming which suits you best.
NEED TO CAST EXTREME RANGE? To cater for extreme distances or big water, heavy fishing we offered the Hi-‘S’ 200s in both 12’ and 13’ and following the request for rods with even greater casting potential we launched the new Hi-‘S’ 220 in 13’.
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These rods have proved capable of well in excess of 200 yards in the right hands - hence their names. Still built with a normal taper to transmit the power smoothly through the blank without fear of rod breakage and helping to eliminate crack-offs. Surprisingly the tip is relatively soft giving confidence that you can land carp with a little care. For those wanting a little more fish playing action but still very capable alternatives are the Hi-‘S’ive and X.S.’ive rods, that are slightly softer in the butt to middle sections and much softer in the tips but still capable of well in excess of 180 yards in the right hands. The new Hi-‘S’ive E.R. (available in 12’ only) is proving very popular even as an all-round rod since it has a very soft fish-playing tip but casts easily to extreme ranges. Following the success of the Hi-’S’ive’s we have developed two new rods in the ‘E’-Class range that offer near same performance at a less expensive price. These are the 12’ 3 ½lb S.U. and 13’ 3 ½lb S.U. rods.
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STANDARD OR 50MM RINGING? If you use braided lines 40mm ringing is fine. If, however, you use mono lines the choice is not quite as clear as the reel and spool size becomes more relevant. For standard sized reels 40mm ringing is the most suitable, yet for Big Pits and especially those with reverse taper spools we believe 50mm ringing will cope better with the larger coils of line spilling off the spool. Of course this is not an exact science since variables such as line diameter and characteristics, the ability of the angler to accelerate the lead and tightness of the line coils all have a bearing. Of course this applies mainly to casting rods (over 3 ¼lb) - putting 50mm ringing on lighter rods is not recommended as the softer rod actions cause acute angles on the blank with the higher stand-off of larger guide frames and can lead to rod breakage.
IDEAL HANDLE LENGTH To get the best from your casting the handle length should suit your arm. The optimum length for a distance casting rod is with the butt cap just under the armpit but not quite touching while you hold the rod with the arm outstretched. It is less important on multi-purpose rods as long as the rod feels comfortable. We recommend that on all extreme range and distance rods that you ensure the length of handle is right for you.
CASTING TUITION As with golf many anglers are self-taught and develop bad habits in their cast. But unlike golf the vast majority of anglers don’t bother to correct these defects by having a lesson. We are fortunate to have Mark Hutchinson as one of our consultants whose casting ability has to be seen to be believed. He offers casting tuition and I am certain all anglers can gain extra distance and improve their casting technique by booking some tuition with him – even just a couple of hours.
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY We have set-up Mark Hutchinson with the majority of our rods so you can try them out before committing to purchase. There is a modest charge to book a day with him but judging by his popularity most people find the experience extremely beneficial. In addition we attend
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various shows and where possible try to demonstrate our products. In addition if you see any of our other consultants on the bank please feel free to ask them about any of our product ranges - most have been involved in design and development of our products for many years and are very knowledgeable.
BACK-UP AND SERVICE Although we experience very few returns in the event of a problem occurring with any Free Spirit Fishing product please contact the outlet from where you purchased the item. We will endeavour to rectify the problem as soon as possible with repair or replacement as appropriate. All Free Spirit Fishing items carry a conditional 12 month warranty (or longer where legally required) and we pride ourselves in sorting out problems efficiently. Even well outside warranty periods we will endeavour to sort problems and also carry a stock of parts for matching up previous builds.
A WORD ABOUT ROD BREAKAGES Using the highest quality carbons and building rods on the ‘spine’ means we suffer very few rod breakages but occasionally we get a rod that has a defect in material. Such defect will mean the rod will break within the first few casts and nearly always breaks either side of the joint. This is the area where a rod is under most pressure during casting. Contrary to popular belief the end of the tip section is under very little pressure during the cast and it is very rare for any legitimate breakage in this area. A break on the end of the tip is almost always down to accidental damage by the angler - and this damage does not necessarily show up on the blank prior to the break occurring. Also a break due to manufacturing defect is always a clean break; a long, splintered break points to damage by crushing to the blank prior to the actual break. Tips can also be broken when threading the line through and bending it back towards the reel in an unnatural angle or through the action of casting, especially with braid, when the line goes around the end of the tip or the tip guide or last intermediate guide below the tip guide. We are always very sympathetic to accidental damage and look after customers who are honest with us especially since we have a very low incidence of breakage.
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THE ‘TECHI’ BIT! THE BENEFITS OF USING LOW RESIN CARBON IN BLANK MANUFACTURE In the past it has been well accepted that rods lose some of their power through extensive use with resultant reduction in test curve. Using the highest quality higher modulus carbons and reducing the resin content, normally around 37%, is, we believe, critical to prolonging the life of the blank and maintaining the effective test curve. In recent tests we compared a brand new Hi-‘S’ 200-13’ with one that had been used by Mark Hutchinson for his casting demonstrations and tuition for over 4 years and would have therefore been cast thousands of times to the maximum. The variance in test curve was barely discernible and casting performance differed by a matter of inches on a rod that had effectively endured what would equate to twenty plus years of normal use. The Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’-Range of carp rods use the latest low resin Japanese carbons from Toray and Mitsubishi. The proportion of resin has been cut to around 20% on the ‘S’-Range with a very high density of carbon filament laid in a much more uniform pattern. Examining a crosssection of normal carbon and Low Resin Carbon through an electron microscope with camera attached (Figure 1, page 4) clearly shows the density and uniformity of carbon filaments in our Low Resin Carbon on the right compared to the more random pattern of the normal carbon on the left. Pockets of the resin can be seen at the top left of the normal carbon photograph and in other areas. In this way we preserve the action with little noticeable reduction in power or test curve rating even with the use of PVA bags and method feeders that overload the rod past its recommended casting weight. We have further developed these carbons for the Hi-‘S’ Range using even lower resin contents of below 17% and very high modulus 40t carbon producing slimmer, lighter and stronger blanks culminating in the introduction of the Hi-‘S’200 so called as it is capable of ranges well in excess of 200 yards with the right set-up and technique. The launch of the Hi-‘S’ive E.R. (extra responsive) this year is the culmination of two years hard work. This utilizes even higher quality carbons to maintain the optimum casting performance but with a very soft, fish playing tip. This makes for a rod that casts very easily to extreme ranges but is a joy to use.
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Research will continue with further ranges being introduced that benefit from this new carbon technology although we predict that due to high cost of material and difficulty of handling the use of low resin will remain the exception not the rule.
‘PERDURABLE’ BLANK FINISH Normal practice is for the blank to be hand ground following the curing process and then painted and or lacquered to hide any imperfections in the blank or grinding. Even a clear matt lacquer will hide blemishes. To show the quality of our carbons to the full we have developed the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish. After curing our blanks they are ground to strict tolerances to produce a smooth polished finish with no flaws. The only finish we apply is a fine detail polish to produce a subtle sheen. This avoids the problems of deterioration of the lacquer or colour bleaching of paint finishes for a lifelong blank finish. We have re-built rods, renewing the whippings and they leave us looking like brand new rods again even after many years of use. The ‘Perdurable’ blank finish is produced on all Hi-‘S’ rods, ‘S’-Range rods, the new ‘E’-Class range and the Tamer ‘X’-Wraps across all Carp, Barbel, Pike and Cat rods with the exception of the Tench Specials where we wanted to offer a ‘Tinca’ green finish.
SPINE OF THE ROD We take great pains to ensure our rods are whipped along the spine (backbone) of the rod. This is important since the rod aligns to this spine during casting and fish playing – if you feel the rod snatching during the cast or have a top section that twists around on the cast this is probably down to it being built off spine. On the long range rods this is vital since if built off spine the carbon fibres will try to align themselves to the spine during heavy casting and can ‘un-wrap’ leading to rod breakage. Since our production processes are very exact we can do this without having to sacrifice too many top sections due to the tip kicking left or right. We encourage every angler to check this point since many manufacturers do not always build on the spine as they would have to sacrifice too many sections as they would not look straight.
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Carp Rods
CARP RODS
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THE DEFINITIVE Hi-‘S’ CARP RODS Utilising very high quality Japanese Low Resin Carbon and with an attractive 1k weave these rods have been incredibly popular since their release despite us never advertising them. Blanks are very slim, light but powerful aiding poor casters and capable casters alike. Since tips are very slim these actions are semi-fast with stiffer mid and butt sections and very slim tips making them ultra responsive with virtually no tip bounce following casting so minimizing friction for longer casts. The material combined with the use of our Clone Seat also helps transmit more feel through the blank to aid leading about to find features. All Hi-‘S’ Rods feature the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish. Hand built in the U.K. to our exacting standards with full custom built service available. The Hi-‘S’ Carp Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 2½lb
RHS349
1k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 3lb
RHS100
1k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 3lb - 50mm
RHS100-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 3½lb
RHS101
1k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 3½lb - 50mm
RHS101-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 6” 3¼lb
RHS401
1k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 6” 3¼lb - 50mm
RHS401-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 6” 3½lb
RHS485
1k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 6” 3½lb - 50mm
RHS485-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 13’ 3½lb
RHS350
1k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ 13’ 3½lb - 50mm
RHS350-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ive 12’ - 50mm
RHS427
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 standard tip *
Hi-‘S’ive 13’ - 50mm
RHS439
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 standard tip *
Hi-‘S’ive 12’ E.R. - 50mm
RHS520
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 standard tip *
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K.
* Can be made with 40mm ringing
All the above can be built with full cork, full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost and are fully customisable.
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CARP RODS
THE AWESOME Hi-‘S’ 200 & 220 CARP RODS We set out (some would say foolishly) to produce a rod capable of casting in excess of 200 yards with baited rig but that had the taper, look and feel of a normal carp rod. The result after considerable testing was the Hi-‘S’ 200. Built from the same 40t Low Resin Carbon as the other Hi-‘S’ blanks these rods have a crisp, smooth action with no ‘snatch’ – yet are still light and slim with a very fast recovery to eliminate tip bounce that cuts down distance. With the benefit of a comparatively soft tip they are still capable of playing fish without the risk of hook pulls. The new Hi-‘S’ 220’s were made at the request of customers wanting even greater distances than those capable with the 200’s. This is especially important for ultra, extreme range fishing and they are proving popular with many of the teams on the international stage where the ability to outcast rivals is of paramount importance. In the right hands very formidable specialist tools when the ultimate distance is essential. The Hi-‘S’ 200 & 220 Carp Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Hi-‘S’ 12’ 200
RHS200-12
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip *
Hi-‘S’ 13’ 200
RHS200-13
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip *
Hi-‘S’ 13’ 220
RHS220-13
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip *
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K.
* Can be built with 40mm ringing
All the above can be built with full cork, full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost. Matching Spod & Marker Rods, Stalking Rods and Landing Nets are also available.
CARP RODS
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THE EVER POPULAR ‘S’-RANGE CARP RODS Arguably already classic rods this range originally started with the E.S. and X.S. some years ago. Unlike many companies we take great pains to create the best possible rods before launching them so don’t need to keep changing models unless something significantly better in material is developed. These rods have such a following and reputation that we would take some persuading before changing this series. Blanks are slim and light with semi-progressive curves that suit anglers liking a rod with more feel for fish playing. The exception is the X.S.’ive that has been designed with distance in mind although they are also more parabolic that the Hi-‘S’ range. These rods are finished in an attractive 3k weave with our ‘Perdurable’ finish. We try to offer rods to suit many different styles of fishing in this range - all built with the same 36t Low Resin Carbon to cater for all requirements from small waters to extreme range. The ‘S’-Range Carp Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
C.S. 12’ 2lb
RCS238
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
K.S. 12’ 2¼lb
RKS352
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
T.S. 11’ 2¾lb
RTS102
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
E.S. 12’ 2¾lb
RES151
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
X.S. 12’ 3¼lb
RXS154
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 braid tip
X.S. 12’ 3¼lb - 50mm
RXS154-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 braid tip
X.S.’ive 12’ 3½lb
RXSV223
3k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 braid tip
X.S.’ive 12’ 3½lb - 50mm
RXSV223-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 braid tip
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. All the above can be built with full cork, full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost. Matching Spod & Marker Rods, Stalking Rods and Landing Nets are also available.
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CARP RODS
We take great pains to create the best possible rods before launching them.
CARP RODS
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THE FORMIDABLE ‘E’-CLASS CARP RODS We have just launched the new ‘E’-Class ‘Gold’, taking the original ‘E’-Class range that had been a great success but bringing the range cosmetically into line with the addition of our Clone seat made in the same 3k weave as the blank and butt grips like that fitted to the Hi-‘S’ range. Our goal was simply to take the technology used on the Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’-Range and apply it to a range at a mid-price point giving more anglers a chance to use Free Spirit Fishing rods.
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CARP RODS
We use very high modulus 40t carbons to give smooth, crisp actions, slim diameters and good weight and feel. The rods feature a unique 3k weave with ‘Perdurable’ finish meaning we do not cover the carbon with paints and lacquers to conceal any imperfections but rather ensure the blanks are finished and precision ground so you can admire the quality of material and finish. This also makes them very durable and immune from the usual scratches, dints and bleaching of other rods - looking good for years to come. There is a wide choice of test curves from 2 ¾lb to the extreme range 3 ½lb - all finished with S-Lite™ guides and new to the range are the two S.U. versions (stepped-up). These are based very heavily on the Hi-‘S’ive action and feel and have near matching casting capability. ‘E’-Class Carp Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
‘E’-Class 12’ 2¾lb
REC507
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 3¼lb
REC508
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 3¼lb - 50mm
REC508-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 3½lb
REC509
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 3½lb - 50mm
REC509-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 3½lb - 50mm S.U.
REC510-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 6” 3¼lb
REC511
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 6” 3½lb
REC513
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 6” 3½lb - 50mm
REC513-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘E’-Class 13’ 3½lb
REC512
3k Clone Seat
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
‘E’-Class 13’ 3½lb - 50mm
REC512-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘E’-Class 12’ 3½lb - 50mm S.U.
REC521-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Can be hand built in the U.K. for a small additional cost and custom built with full cork or EVA handles.
CARP RODS
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THE CARP TAMER ‘X’-WRAPS The Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap has a distinctive carbon ‘X’-Wrap running the length of the blank with a matt finish. The blanks are slim, light and built from high modulus carbons that belie their price point and feature the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish. Completed with Fuji DPS reel seats and S-Lite™ guides these rods will look the part for many years to come but will not break the bank. Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap Carp Rods
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Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 2½lb
CTX430
Fuji DPS-M18
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 2¾lb
CTX431
Fuji DPS-M18
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 3¼lb
CTX432
Fuji DPS-M18
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 3¼lb - 50mm
CTX432-50
Fuji DPS-M18
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 3½lb
CTX433
Fuji DPS-M18
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 3½lb - 50mm
CTX433-50
Fuji DPS-M18
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 6” 3¼lb
CTX434
Fuji DPS-M18
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 12’ 6” 3¼lb - 50mm
CTX434-50
Fuji DPS-M18
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 13’ 3½lb
CTX435
Fuji DPS-M18
40/30/20/16/12 & 12 tip
Carp Tamer ‘X’-Wrap 13’ 3½lb - 50mm
CTX435-50
Fuji DPS-M18
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
CARP RODS
Spomb™ & Spod Rods The Launcher and Searcher series have always had a cult following even amongst anglers that don’t use our carp rods. These kind of rods lead a very heavy life so we still use the highest quality blanks and fittings and do not ‘cut corners’ with these. We offer both 40mm and 50mm versions since many people exclusively use braided main line and shock leaders when using these rods and for those people there is no advantage in using 50mm guides. All the Launcher and Searcher models are fitted with Fuji DNPS-M20 reel seats to be comfortable when casting for long periods. We fit our Clone seats to the Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’ Range rods since this perfectly matches the blank and is preferred by the majority of customers although we can fit the Fuji DNPS seat (or any other) if preferred.
SPOMB™ & SPOD RODS
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THE SPOMB™ ROD – EXPLOSIVE DELIVERY The new Free Spirit Fishing Spomb Rods have been developed specifically to be used with the Spomb™ as these offer many advantages over spods for putting out bait. The Spomb Rod has been designed with a stiff butt section and very responsive tip to help turn the Spomb over quicker and eliminate the wobble at the start of the cast and hence maximise the casting distance and accuracy when casting the Spomb and new Mini Spomb. The softness of the tip also loads the rod quicker making Spombing effortless even at extreme ranges whether using boilies, pellets, particles or floaters. Of course these rods are also suitable for spodding. Available in both 12’ and 13’ versions with 40mm or 50mm ringing. “The Spomb trade mark and logo are officially licensed to Free Spirit Fishing for use on fishing rods by Spomb Limited.”
THE SPOMB RODS Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
The Spomb Rod 12’ - 40mm
TSR504-40
Fuji DNPS-M20
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
The Spomb Rod 12’ - 50mm
TSR504-50
Fuji DNPS-M20
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
The Spomb Rod 13’ - 40mm
TSR514-40
Fuji DNPS-M20
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
The Spomb Rod 13’ - 50mm
TSR514-50
Fuji DNPS-M20
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
SPOD RODS We offer Spod rods in the Hi-‘S’, ‘S’-Range and ‘E’-Class ranges featuring the same materials used to make the carp rods. There is no compromise on the quality of these so actions and blank weights are kept right for the job - allowing these rods to be used for long periods without tiring. Rods are offered in both 12’ and 13’ to suit all requirements. All spod rods also have depth marks so can be used as marker rods too. We introduced the Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’-Range spod rods to meet demands from our customers for rods that matched their carp rods. The Launcher range, that matches the ‘E’-Class carp rods, has acquired an exceptional reputation and in particular the LRS that has been a firm favourite over a number of years.
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SPOMB™ & SPOD RODS
THE Hi-‘S’ SPOD RODS Using the very same high quality Japanese Low Resin 40t carbon and with full 1k weave to the end of the tip, the Hi-‘S’ Spod rods exactly match the build of the carp rods. As we use the same material the blanks are kept as slim and light as possible but still with plenty of action to aid the casting of even the smaller spods and the Mini-Spomb™. Accuracy is also maintained over shorter distances as the rod can still be adequately compressed, making it also suitable for method blasting. Available in both 12’ and 13’ in either 40mm or 50mm. Hi-‘S’ Spod Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
The Hi-‘S’ Spod Rod 12’ - 50mm
RHS473-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
The Hi-‘S’ Spod Rod 12’ - 40mm
RHS473-40
1k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
The Hi-‘S’ Spod Rod 13’ - 50mm
RHS516-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
The Hi-‘S’ Spod Rod 13’ - 40mm
RHS516-40
1k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
Hand built in the U.K. to our exacting standards with full custom build service available. All the above can be built with full cork, full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost.
SPOMB™ & SPOD RODS
19
THE ‘S’-Range SPOD RODS These Spod Rod are made from the same Low Resin 36t Carbon with a 3k weave throughout like the ‘S’-Range of rods and with the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish. Available in two actions of around 4lb and 5lb the special carbon aids accuracy at all ranges and the low resin content means the action of the rod is preserved for much longer despite the continual overloading of the blank caused by large spods. Both rods are suitable for short, medium and long ranges, we recommend the ‘S’-Range for most people and this will cast all the standard size spods and extreme ranges for the streamlined rocket type spods whilst the S.U. model is better suited to big spods like our own Big Bed or if you continually want to fish well in excess of 100 yards plus. Rods are built with both 40mm and 50mm ringing. ‘S’-Range Spod Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
‘S’-Range Spod Rod (4lb) - 50mm
RSR106
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘S’-Range Spod Rod (4lb) - 40mm
RSR106-40
3k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
‘S’-Range Spod Rod S.U. (5lb) - 50mm
RSR424
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘S’-Range Spod Rod S.U. (5lb) - 40mm
RSR424-40
3k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. All the above can be built with full cork, full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost.
20
SPOMB™ & SPOD RODS
THE LAUNCHER SPOD RODS Our spod rods are built with plenty of action in the blanks so can be easily compressed making them more accurate at short to medium range as well as long range. Built to match the new ‘E’-Class Carp rods using high modulus carbons and the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish for a lifetime of heavy use. The MRS (Multi-Range Spod) will suit most people and is capable of casting in excess of 100yards with spods up to around 6oz whilst the LRS (Long Range Spod) is suited to people who want to push spods serious distances or use very heavy particle filled spods such as our Big Bait Spod or large fully loaded Spombs. Available in 40mm and 50mm ringing, all spod rods have depth marks up the rod in case of use as a long range marker rod. The LRS is available in both 12’ and 13’ models.
Launcher Spod Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Launcher Multi-Range 12’ - 50mm
MRS286-50
DNPS-M20
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Launcher Multi-Range 12’ - 40mm
MRS286-40
DNPS-M20
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
Launcher Long Range 12’ - 50mm
LRS285-50
DNPS-M20
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Launcher Long Range 12’ - 40mm
LRS285-40
DNPS-M20
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
Launcher Long Range 13’ - 50mm
LRS505-50
DNPS-M20
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Launcher Long Range 13’ - 40mm
LRS505-40
DNPS-M20
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
Launcher Spod Rods can be custom built to suit for a small additional cost.
SPOMB™ & SPOD RODS
21
Marker Rods A good marker rod is actually a lousy fishing rod! The top 18” or so need to be quite dead in action and this helps you to feel more of the contours of the lake bed - the reason why most carp rods are unsuitable for markering. Free Spirit Fishing was the first to offer dedicated marker rods knowing well the importance of this tool. We now offer rods in the Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’ Range in addition to the original Searcher rods. All rods carry depth marks and can be built with 40mm or 50mm ringing and custom built as necessary.
THE HI-‘S’ MARKER RODS The very same Japanese Low Resin 40t carbon and with full 1k weave is used for the Hi-‘S’ Marker rods so will match the build of the carp rods. Utilising the same material helps keep the blanks slim and light but still retaining plenty of action to aid distance casting even with the drag of float and lead set-ups. Available in both 12’ and 13’ in either 40mm or 50mm. Hi-‘S’ Marker Rods Model
Code
Reel Seat
Guides - S-Lites™
The Hi-‘S’ Marker Rod 12’ - 50mm
RHS490-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
The Hi-‘S’ Marker Rod 12’ - 40mm
RHS490-40
1k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
The Hi-‘S’ Marker Rod 13’ - 50mm
RHS517-50
1k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
The Hi-‘S’ Marker Rod 13’ - 40mm
RHS517-40
1k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
Hand built in the U.K. to our exacting standards with full custom build service available. All the above can be built with full cork, full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost.
SEARCHER ‘S’-LITE MARKER AND RUN RING KIT Specially developed to allow almost friction free running the Searcher ‘S’-Lite Marker and Run Rings are equally at home with braided or mono line to prevent the ‘sawing through’ associated with plastic run rings. The large bore helps to prevent weed fouling the line and preventing the ring from working effectively. The S-Lite Marker and Run Ring Kit – AMF247
Searcher ‘S’-Lite Marker and Run Ring Kit Model
Code
‘S’-Lite Marker / Run Ring Kit
AMF247
‘S’-Lite Marker / Run Rings x 3
AMF247RINGS
22
MARKER RODS
THE ‘S’-RANGE MARKER RODS Made from the same Low Resin 36t Carbon with a 3k weave as the ‘S’-Range carp rods and with the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish, these marker rods are available in 12’ with either 40mm or 50mm guides. All other aspects of the build will match the range of carp rods and they can be custom built with cork, EVA or any other options you wish.
The S-Lite Marker and Run Ring Kit – AMF247
‘S’-Range Marker Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
‘S’-Range Marker Rod - 50mm
RMR491-50
3k Clone Seat
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
‘S’-Range Marker Rod - 40mm
RMR491-40
3k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. All the above can be built with full cork, full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost.
THE SEARCHER MARKER RODS The Long Range Marker (LRM) has been a firm favourite over the past few years. The 2012 model has been updated to match the new ‘E’-Class Carp rods and utilizes high modulus carbons and the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish for a lifetime of heavy use. The LRM is suited to people who want to explore to extreme ranges with leads up to and exceeding 4oz. All marker rods have a 1’ and 2’ depth mark up the rod and are made in both 12’ and 13’ models with either 40mm or 50mm ringing. The MRM (Multi-Range Marker) is still available to special order only should you still want these. Searcher Marker Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Searcher Long Range Marker 12’ - 50mm
LRM287-50
DNPS-M20
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Searcher Long Range Marker 12’ - 40mm
LRM287-40
DNPS-M20
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
Searcher Long Range Marker 13’ - 50mm
LRM506-50
DNPS-M20
50/40/30/20/16 & 16 tip
Searcher Long Range Marker 13’ - 40mm
LRM506-40
DNPS-M20
40/30/25/20/16 & 16 tip
Searcher Marker Rods can be custom built to suit for a small additional cost.
MARKER RODS
23
Creeper, Stalking, Floater and Boat Carp Rods We offer three ranges of stalking rods built to match the Hi-‘S’, ‘S’-Range and the ‘E’-Class carp rod ranges. All the stalking rods are built with the hard life they will lead in mind. The blanks are slim, yet light with soft tips to allow the flicking of little baits and free-lining and holding all day if necessary. We have developed rods specifically for boat carp fishing and these are available in all 3 ranges and are 10’ for ease of use afloat.
THE Hi-‘S’ CREEPER RODS Built from the very same Low Resin 40t Carbon as used on the Hi-‘S’ carp rods and with full 1k weave and ‘Perdurable’ blank finish these rods are extremely light, yet strong and with very responsive tips to aid casting with light set-ups. The 3 models in the range are built with Grade ‘A’ full cork handles, our Clone seat in 1k with isotope slot and all stainless steel fittings. The range consists of the Hi-‘S’ Bank Creeper, a 10’ 2 ¾lb ideal as an all-round stalking rod with its soft, forgiving tip that is well suited to free-lining baits in the margins and yet will cope admirably with the heavy
lunges of big fish close in. The Hi-‘S’ Boat Carp is 10’ 3 ¼lb and, although originally designed for boat carp fishing, has a following as a heavier stalking rod. The 11’ Surface Creeper has a very subtle tip action but power further down and is therefore ideal to cast small, delicate controllers or for free-lining but is also well capable of launching large controllers of 40 to 50g at distances up to 100 yards or so. As is the case with almost all our rods these can be built to individual requirements.
Hi-‘S’ CREEPER RODS Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Hi-‘S’ Bank Creeper 10’ 2 ¾lb
RHS488
1k Clone Seat 30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ Boat Carp 10’ 3 ¼lb
RHS487
1k Clone Seat 30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Hi-‘S’ Surface Creeper 11’
RHS498
1k Clone Seat 30/25/20/16/12/10/10 & 10 braid tip
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. All the above rods are offered with full cork handles as standard but we have built quite a number with either full EVA or abbreviated handles that match carp rods owned by customers. Since these materials are less expensive than cork there is a cost saving.
24
CREEPER, STALKING, FLOATER AND BOAT CARP RODS
THE ‘S’-RANGE CREEPER RODS Built from the Low Resin 36t Carbon as used on the ‘S’-Range carp rods and with the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish these rods have a little more through action than the Hi-‘S’ range, although still have plenty of power when needed to stop hard fighting fish from reaching snags. Comprising 5 models - all built with high quality Grade ‘A’ full cork handles, Clone seats in 3k and finished with stainless steel fittings - the ‘S’-Range Bank Creeper at 10’ makes a lovely all-round stalking rod and its soft, forgiving tip will free-line baits in the margins whilst coping with hard fighting fish. The ‘S’-Range Bank Creeper 10’ S.U. is for heavier stalking work and is also ideal for use in a boat - the shorter length being ideal for playing fish. The 8’6” Margin Creeper ‘S’ makes an ideal rod to keep in the boot for those just in case moments and for the more confined spaces in between trees, whilst the 6’ Tree Creeper ‘S’ is ideal when you are really in the undergrowth for ‘hit and hold’ fishing. The Tree Creeper is a one piece construction for added strength. The final rod is the ‘S’-Range Surface Creeper and at 11’ is ideal for fishing controllers and other surface set-ups or for free-lining light baits in the margins and at short range. ‘S’-Range Creeper Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guide - S-Lites™
Surface Creeper ‘S’ 11’
RSC489
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12/10/10 & 10 braid tips
Bank Creeper ‘S’ 10’
RBC105
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Boat Carp ‘S’ 10’ S.U.
RBC424
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Margin Creeper ‘S’ 8’6”
RMC104
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Tree Creeper ‘S’ 6’
RTC103
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. All the above can be built with full EVA, abbreviated or full shrink.
CREEPER, STALKING, FLOATER AND BOAT CARP RODS
25
THE ‘E’-CLASS CREEPER RODS Blanks made from 40t SEA-3k with a fully woven carbon finish as used on the ‘E’-Class carp rods and with the ‘Perdurable’ finish make these rods a joy to use. There are 5 models – all built with high quality full EVA handles, a Clone seat with same finish as the rod and all stainless steel fittings. The Surface Creeper is a dedicated floater rod designed with a very soft, sensitive tip to handle small controllers and light nylon hook links and at 11’ it is still a useful stalking rod especially when free-lining. The Bank Creeper 10’ has an effective test curve around 2½lb so can handle big fish but with a soft tip to absorb heavy lunges under the tip, the Boat Carp with a test of around 3lb for boating out baits and playing and landing carp from the boat (also makes an excellent stepped up rod for bank stalking), the Margin Creeper 8’6” is ideal for the very mobile angler and doubles up as a useful lure rod for the all-round angler, whilst the Tree Creeper is designed for fishing in the deep undergrowth and poking through holes in trees. The ‘E’-Class Creeper Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Surface Creeper ‘E’ 11’
RSC292
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12/10/10 & 10 braid tip
Bank Creeper ‘E’ 10’
RBC291
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Boat Carp ‘E’ 10’
RBC426
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Margin Creeper ‘E’ 8’6”
RMC290
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
Tree Creeper ‘E’ 6’
RTC289
3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12 10 & 10 braid tip
‘E’-Class Creeper Rods can be custom built to suit for a small additional cost.
26
CREEPER, STALKING, FLOATER AND BOAT CARP RODS
Barbel and Specialist Rods Although Free Spirit Fishing has primarily been associated with carp rods we have been producing Barbel and Specialist rods for many years also. These have not been promoted heavily in the past due to bottlenecks in our production capacity - the priority given to keeping up with the demand for our carp rod ranges. With significant investment in additional build capacity we are pleased to announce that we can now offer sensible lead-times on all our range of Barbel and Specialist Rods and indeed many are now in stock.
THE Hi-’S’ BARBEL AND SPECIALIST RODS Utilising our Ultra High modulus (40t) Low Resin Carbon the Hi-‘S’ Specialist range are incredibly slim and light for their given power. Designed to cope with the demanding needs of the modern specialist angler – these rods can be held all day if necessary. The material used helps ‘transmit’ more feeling through the blank and the addition of our clone seat, made of the same material as the rod, further aids this sensation. Finished with our ‘Perdurable’ blank technology.
around catching chub, roach and even barbel on little streams and rivers and also is great fun as an ultra-light rod for stalking carp in open water. The Stepped-Up model is almost a 12’ version of the above rod but does possess more power in the butt to middle section that makes it a great tench feeder / float rod. The Big Water is the rod for fishing large rivers or flood water when big leads or feeders are needed to hold bottom or where you need to cast distances to reach fish. For this reason it also makes a great tench and bream feeder rod for longer range. We will shortly be adding to this range with a dedicated Barbel Special.
The range has been designed to cope with all manner of specialist fishing. The Small Water 11’ is great for roving
The Hi-’S’ Specialist Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Hi-‘S’ Specialist 11’ Small Water
HSS352
1k Clone Seat
25/20/16/12/12/10/10/8/8 & 8 tip
Hi-‘S’ Specialist 12’ Stepped-Up
HSS353
1k Clone Seat
25/20/16/12/12/10/10/10/8/8 & 8 tip
Hi-‘S’ Specialist 12’ Barbel
HSS523*
1k Clone Seat
25/20/16/12/12/10/10/10/8/8 & 8 tip
Hi-‘S’ Specialist 12’ Big Water
HSS440
1k Clone Seat
25/20/16/12/12/10/10/10/8/8 & 8 tip
* coming soon. Hand built in the U.K. to our exacting standards with full custom build service available.
BARBEL AND SPECIALIST RODS
27
THE Hi-’S’ SPECIAL POWER FLOAT RODS Using the same 40t Low Resin Carbon as the rest of the Hi-‘S’ range, these float rods are extremely light to hold but are a joy to use all day. The ultra slim blanks are designed with specialist fishing in mind, hence the 12’ and 13’ models being made in two pieces and the 15’ in three pieces. This makes for much better actions to control large fish in currents or under the rod top since we believe the action flows better through the blank and the power transmission is smoother. The 12’ Float makes an excellent tench float rod whilst the 13’ and 15’ are well suited to river fishing where control of floats is a must. These rods have also landed very large carp from commercial fisheries. We are developing a shorter 10’ model for roving little streams and rivers. The Hi-’S’ Special Power Float Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Hi-‘S’ Special Power Float - 12’*
HSS354
1k Clone Seat
13 Stand-Off Guides
Hi-‘S’ Special Power Float - 13’ *
HSS403
1k Clone Seat
14 Stand-Off Guides
Hi-‘S’ Special Power Float - 15’ **
HSS425
1k Clone Seat
15 Stand-Off Guides
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. All the above can be built with full EVA or full shrink for a small additional cost. *2 piece **3 piece
28
BARBEL AND SPECIALIST RODS
THE BARBEL SEEKERS
THE BIG RIVER BARBEL
“If you’ve ever wondered just what the perfect Barbel rod would look like, then wonder no more because Free Spirit’s Barbel Seeker comes as close as you are ever likely to get! A very bold statement I hear you say but this rod pretty well has it all.
To explain the background to this rod a little. We have been very successful with our Barbel Seeker rod made from our special Low Resin Carbon. This material is superb for building strong, slim blanks that have reserves of power and “transmit” more of the little tremors through to the angler. Steve Pope had used these and loved the action but wanted a rod for the heavy flow of the Trent, Wye and Severn in Flood.
Twelve feet of pure class in two sections of ultra slim but extremely strong specially woven carbon unique to Free Spirit, with a full cork handle, essential as far as I’m concerned, this rod is aesthetically pleasing and an absolute joy to use. Its lightness belies the hidden power that will land you that double figure Barbel, and its sensitivity will make playing a five pounder equally enthralling. The rod is not rated by test curve, but don’t let that put you off, the reason is quite simple, it really copes with just about any Barbel fishing situation you are likely to find. The attention to detail is superb, all that you would expect from a quality rod. The isotope in the reel seat is no gimmick; it is very handy when you are night fishing. While mentioning the reel seat this too is very special, and is equally at home with a fixed spool as well as your centre pin. The rod is finished in subtle, satin finished mottle grey that oozes class and the ten S-Lite™ guides with their black whippings and stainless trim to the cork handle make this a very special piece of equipment.
He brought me two rods that purport to be big river barbel rods – but were in fact 2 ¼lb carp rod blanks made up as so called Barbel rods. One in fact had the carp logo under a whipping! These actions are not right for the job since a light action carp rod is very progressive and has a shallow taper with not very responsive tip and soft middle and butt section. They fold up when faced with powerful Barbel in big flows and the tips are not responsive enough for bite detection especially in winter. We set about designing from scratch the blank and have produced a rod with bags of power in the butt and lower middle sections for stopping express Barbel in full flight and with a very sensitive tip to allow for registration of the faintest of bites. The inclusion of the carbon reel seat helps transmit more feeling down the rod when touch legering. The addition of the isotope in the handle for night fishing is an added bonus.
It’s always difficult when waxing lyrical about a Barbel rod, I’m only too aware that one man’s meat etc…. but what can I say; this rod goes a long way to dispel that old chestnut and if you are looking for a top of the range rod that will cope with room to spare in most situations, then this is the one you need; and the really good news is you do not have to break the bank to own one! …..I guarantee you will not be disappointed.” Steve Pope - President of the Barbel Society describing the Barbel Seeker rods.
BARBEL AND SPECIALIST RODS
29
THE SEEKER SPECIALIST A light rod for fishing smaller rivers for chub, roach and smaller barbel or for tench and bream fishing on stillwaters. The tip bends nicely and the rod is relatively progressive allowing the use of light hooks links for shy biting fish. The Seeker Barbel & Specialist Rods Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
The Seeker Specialist 12’
RBS107
Clone Seat
25/20/16/12/10/10/8/8/8 8 tip
The Barbel Seeker 11’ S.U.
RBS404
Clone Seat
25/20/16/16/12/12/10/8/8 8 tip
The Barbel Seeker 12’ S.U.
RBS228
Clone Seat
25/20/16/16/12/12/10/8/8 8 tip
The Big River Barbel 12’
RBR108
Clone Seat
25/20/16/16/12/1210/10/8 8 tip
Quiver Top Section incl. 3 tips *
RBS229
fits Big River & Barbel Seeker
16/12/10/8/6/6 + tips
fits Barbel Seeker 11’
16/12/10/8/6/6 + tips
Quiver Top Section incl. 3 tips *
RBS405
* 2oz glass, 2½oz carbon and 3oz carbon in black finish HAND BUILT IN THE U.K.
THE NEW TAMER ‘X’-WRAP SPECIALIST RODS This new specialist series are built on ultra slim, lightweight blanks that feature a very distinctive carbon X-Wrap along the length of the blank. Finished with a matt look to prevent flash that could scare wary fish - a must for the serious specialist and barbel angler.
Included in the range are rods to suit all situations from the intimate side stream to the roaring flooded river to long range Bream and Tench fishing. Built with an Avon section and a separate quiver top section with long push in quiver tip to suit a variety of winter and summer conditions and with natural full cork handles around a Fuji DPS-16 reel seat and with our twin leg S-Lite guides for durability.
The Tamer X-Wrap Series Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
The Tamer X-Wrap 11’ 1½lb incl. quiver top
TSX440
DPS-M16
25/20/16/16/12/10/10/8 8 tip 16/12/10/8/6 + 2oz glass tip
The Tamer X-Wrap 12’ 1½lb incl. quiver top
TSX441
DPS-M16
25/20/16/16/12/10/10/8 8 tip 16/12/10/8/6 + 2½oz carbon tip
The Tamer X-Wrap Stepped-Up incl. quiver top
TSX442
DPS-M16
25/20/16/16/12/10/10/8 8 tip 16/12/10/8/6 + 3oz carbon tip
The Tamer X-Wrap Big Water incl. quiver top
TSX443
DPS-M16
25/20/16/16/12/10/10/8 8 tip 16/12/10/8/6 + 5oz carbon tip
30
BARBEL AND SPECIALIST RODS
TENCH RODS In response to request we have made specific rods for Tench anglers. We offer the Tench Seeker, made from our ‘S’-Range carbon and with Clone seat with isotope slot and a full cork handle this is a rod with lovely semi progressive action but does not bottom out when playing big fish or coping with weedy swims. This has been designed mainly as a feeder rod but can comfortably be used for float fishing too. The Tench Seeker Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
The Tench Seeker 12’
RTS502
3k Clone Seat
25/20/16/12/10/10/8/8/8 8 tip
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K.
THE NEW TENCH SPECIALS Designed especially for the demands of the modern Tench angler the blanks are finished in a luxurious ‘Tinca’ Olive Green The rods feature full length cork handles with cork flares above reel seat, Fuji DPS 16 reel seats and Fuji Alconite match style guides on float rod and specimen style guides on feeder rod. The 12’ Tench Special has been
designed mainly for feeder and lead work and will handle the methods in use on many big waters. It will also cope with float work but for the specialist angler wanting more sensitivity we have designed the Special Tench Float that will cope with extracting large tench from weedy waters.
The Tench Specials Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - Fuji Alconite
The Tench Special 12’
RTS445
DPS-M16
25/20/16/16/12/10/10/8 8 tip
The Tench Special 12’ 9” Float
RTS446
DPS-M16
13 High Stand-Off Guides
BARBEL AND SPECIALIST RODS
31
Quiver Tips We offer a full range of long quiver tips made from 1oz glass up to 8oz carbon to cope with every situation imaginable. These are black with the last part between top two guides in special white paint for easy visibility and will glow at night. The heavier 5, 6 and 8oz quiver tips also feature shooting guides with larger inner diameters that are more suitable for braided lines as used a lot for barbel now and for heavier mono for use on commercial carp fisheries.
THE SPECIALIST ADVANCED QUIVER TIP RANGE Model
Code
Guides - S-Lites™
Spirit Quiver Tip - 1oz glass
SQT303
6 plus Tip
Spirit Quiver Tip - 1½oz glass
SQT304
6 plus Tip
Spirit Quiver Tip - 2oz glass
SQT305
6 plus Tip
Spirit Quiver Tip - 2½oz carbon
SQT306
6 plus Tip
Spirit Quiver Tip - 3oz carbon
SQT307
6 plus Tip
Spirit Quiver Tip - 4oz carbon
SQT308
6 plus Tip
Spirit Quiver Tip - 5oz carbon
SQT309
6 plusTip - large bore
Spirit Quiver Tip - 6oz carbon
SQT310
6 plus Tip- large bore
Spirit Quiver Tip - 8oz carbon
SQT311
6 plus Tip- large bore
32
QUIVER TIPS
Pike and Cat Rods Following on from the very successful Pike Tamers comes the addition of a new range of Special Pikes made in the 36t high modulus ‘S’-Range carbon. Developed over a couple of years by some of the U.K.s leading predator anglers the series comprises rods designed as Bank Specials and as Boat Specials. The Bank Specials offer a good casting action with the delights of fish playing and are very suitable all-rounders and available in 11’ and 12’. The Boat Specials, offered in 10’ and 11’, have been built to withstand heavy use and are well at home on the big lochs and trout waters. All rods feature full cork handles, shorter on the Boat Specials for ease of use afloat, Clone reel seats and all stainless steel fittings. Full custom build service is available.
THE SPECIAL PIKE RANGE Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lite™
‘S’-Range Special Bank Pike 11’ RPS524 3k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16/12 12 tip
‘S’-Range Special Bank Pike 12’ RPS525 3k Clone Seat
40/30/25/20/16/12 12 tip
‘S’-Range Special Boat Pike 10’ RPS526 3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12/10 10 tip
‘S’-Range Special Boat Pike 11’ RPS527 3k Clone Seat
30/25/20/16/12/10 10 tip
HAND BUILT IN THE UK WITH FULL CUSTOM BUILD AVAILABLE.
PIKE AND CAT RODS
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PIKE TAMER This range built with 36t high modulus carbon with the ‘Perdurable’ blank finish (no lacquer or paint on the blank) comprises rods suitable for bank, boat and lure/jig fishing. The range of rods feature new S-Lite 4 leg guides that are extremely strong yet light so will withstand heavy use and boat work. All models are built on attractive full-ground blanks and incorporate a new hooded DPS-18 style reel seat and full length EVA handles (with cork as an option). The rods are finished with polished metal collars and butt caps. Natural Bait Rods: The Multi-range is the all-rounders tool capable of casting baits up to 5oz easily and with a very progressive action to avoid ‘cast offs’. The Big Bait is the tool for hurling big frozen mackerel to the horizon but still progressive enough to withstand the use of soft skin baits. There are two 10ft boat versions, a standard rod with a test of 2.lb, good for the majority of boat piking and an S.U. for heavy boat work or bigger baits. Both feature sensitive tips for bottom bouncing and power in the middle to butt to help subdue big fish. They can also be put to good use casting big spoons and plugs. Artificial Lure Rods: Three dedicated rods, built on full ground 36t carbon blanks. The 8’6” lure rod-light in weight and a joy to fish with, is finished with the same S-Lite rings and fittings as the Tamer pike range. The Jerk Bait rods have Trigger seats and our special 4leg S-Lite low cradle guides - this pattern being specially designed for extra strength and the hard knocks these rods will get in and out of boats. The Jerk Baits come in two ratings suitable for all big plugs, lures and jerk baits and are equally at home with braided lines or mono although we recommend braids of 50lb plus to get the best action out of large jerk baits and lures. Pike Tamer Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
The Pike Tamer 12’ Multi-Range 3lb
RPT386
DPS-18 style
40/30/25/20/16/12 12 tip
The Pike Tamer 12’ Big Bait 3½lb
RPT387
DPS-18 style
40/30/25/20/16/12 12 tip
The Pike Tamer Boat Pike 10’ 2½lb
RPT389
DPS-18 style
30/25/20/16/12/10 10 tip
The Pike Tamer Boat Pike 10’ 3lb
RPT388
DPS-18 style
30/25/20/16/12/10 10 tip
Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Pike Tamer Lure 8’ 6” 15g - 50g
REC390
DPS-18 style
25/20/16/12/10/10 10 tip
Pike Tamer Jerk Bait 40g - 100g
REC392
DTPS-M18 style
16/12/10/8/8 8 tip
Pike Tamer Jerk Bait 50g - 150g
REC391
DTPS-M18 style
16/12/10/8/8 8 tip
Artificial Lure Rods
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PIKE AND CAT RODS
‘S’-RANGE CAT TAMERS The original Cat Tamer gained a reputation for handling large Cats. With the popularity of cat fishing now, coupled with the growing sizes of fish we wanted to upgrade our rods to ensure they would cope with the demands of the biggest cats and the modern ways of fishing for them. We therefore enlisted the help of Bodo and some other guides on the Ebro to help develop and test a new range. Over 18 months of hard testing we established what we believe to be the best cat rods out there. In addition to this testing since the launch these rods have been used almost every day of the year at Gillham’s Fishing Resort in Thailand where they have landed a number of world records of different exotic species. These rods have our special 4 leg low cradle S-Lites for strength and special abbreviated EVA grips to help prevent damage from the rod holders in common use for bank cat fishing. The butt is furnished with a Gimbal fitting for use with a butt pad but this can be changed for the supplied hard EVA butt grip and the Fuji size 22 seat accommodates both fixed spool or multiplier reels. As with all ‘S’-Range rods they are made from our 36t Low Resin Carbon and feature the Perdurable blank finish with full 3k weave. There are two 10’ rods in the range, the Cat Tamer Sport with casting weight of 100 - 300g and suitable for many different species including cats, and the heavier BAD Cat that has been specially designed for the Ebro and other such rivers where cats over 200lb are expected. The 8’ Boat Cat completes the range and this is a shorter two piece rod designed for boat fishing, the shorter length being more convenient in a boat and also helping provide better leverage.
The ‘S’-Range Cat Tamer Model
Code
Reel seat
Guides - S-Lites™
Cat Tamer ‘S’ Sport 10’ 100 - 300g
RCT225 Fuji DPS-M22 25/20/16/12/12/10 10 tip
Cat Tamer ‘S’ BAD Cat 10’ 150 - 400g RCT499 Fuji DPS-M22 25/20/16/12/12/10 10 tip Cat Tamer ‘S’ Boat Cat 8’ 100 - 300g
PIKE AND CAT RODS
RCT500 Fuji DPS-M22 25/20/16/12/12/10 10 tip
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Landing Nets We have updated our landing net range with the introduction of the new Hi-‘S’ Nets and we have also released new ‘S’ Nets. The emphasis has been on reducing the weight to make the nets easier to use. We also firmly believe that using a 6’ handle can be a disadvantage in certain situations, especially where bankside vegetation, shallow margins or marginal weed makes bringing fish in netting range difficult. We also think that the sooner the fish is in the net the better so using a longer handle with better reach makes sense. The Hi-‘S’ Net and ‘S’ Net share a number of common components. The Block A unique stainless steel round block with recess for the pole end to screw into for a neat finish. The front features an isotope slot with isotope already fitted. Easy to break down when landing fish and good looking too. The new block is much smaller and lighter.
The Arm Fittings We have revised the stainless steel fittings on the end of the arms so that the cord can be easily replaced by the angler. We also include with our nets a length of replacement cord in case you break one. The Mesh Produced in an Olive green to blend in with green sack material at the top and all soft Hex mesh to be light when wet. Features a piece of webbing that clips into the handle to keep mesh tidy and avoid snagging the bank side vegetation. Supplied with a deep mesh that allows the fish to be retained in the margins while sorting out scales and camera. For those preferring a shorter mesh this can be bought separately. The popularity of zig fishing also makes using an 8’ or 9’6” handle much more convenient where long links make reaching the fish with a 6’ handle much more difficult.
HAND BUILT IN THE U.K. CAN BE CUSTOM BUILT TO MATCH RODS.
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LANDING NETS
THE Hi-‘S’ NET In response to popular demand we have developed the Hi-‘S’ Net. Made from the same 40t Ultra Low Resin Carbon as the Hi-‘S’ Range rods the handle is very slim, light yet due to the quality of carbon still very strong. Finished with Japanese shrink rubber grips and all stainless steel components, we offer handle versions of 6’ one piece and 8’ two piece - the latter being very suitable for boat work as well as having longer reach. There are two versions of arms available - one with 42” and the larger 46”, one we favour since this will cope with much larger carp, pike and most catfish as can be encountered in many French lakes for example.
The Hi-‘S’ Net Model
Code
Handle
The Hi-‘S’ Net 6’ Handle - 42’ Arms
XHN480-6042
One Section - 6’
The Hi-‘S’ Net 6’ Handle - 46’ Arms
XHN480-6046
One Section - 6’
The Hi-‘S’ Net 8’ Handle - 42’ Arms
XHN480-8042
Two x 4’ Sections - 8’
The Hi-‘S’ Net 8’ Handle - 46’ Arms
XHN480-8046
Two x 4’ Sections - 8’
LANDING NETS
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THE ‘S’ NET Light weight, strong and made from the very same 36t Low Resin Carbon as used on the ‘S’-Range rods and having no lacquer to pit or disintegrate on the main part of the handle and featuring our shrink rubber main and fore grips and stainless steel butt cap and threaded end. Produced from the same Low Resin Carbon for weight and strength benefits we offer 3 handle variations and 4 different arm options. This makes for flexibility as different sets of arms can be bought to suit different fishing situations and all will fit the same handle, either the 6’ one piece, the 8’ two piece or the 9’6” two piece - the latter being very useful for high banked rivers as well as shallow margined lakes. The arms are available in 36”, 42”, 46” and 55”.
The ‘S’ Net Model
Code
Handle
The ‘S’ Net 6’ Handle - 36’ Arms
XSN492-6036
One Section - 6’
The ‘S’ Net 6’ Handle - 42’ Arms
XSN492-6042
One Section - 6’
The ‘S’ Net 6’ Handle - 46’ Arms
XHN492-6046
One Section - 6’
The ‘S’ Net 6’ Handle - 55’ Arms
XHN492-6055
One Section - 6’
The ‘S’ Net 8’ Handle - 36’ Arms
XHN492-8036
Two x 4’ Sections - 8’
The ‘S’ Net 8’ Handle - 42’ Arms
XHN492-8042
Two x 4’ Sections - 8’
The ‘S’ Net 8’ Handle - 46’ Arms
XHN492-8046
Two x 4’ Sections - 8’
The ‘S’ Net 8’ Handle - 55’ Arms
XHN492-8055
Two x 4’ Sections - 8’
The ‘S’ Net 9’6” Handle - 36’ Arms
XHN492-9636
Two x 4’ 9” Sections - 9’6”
The ‘S’ Net 9’6” Handle - 42’ Arms
XHN492-9642
Two x 4’ 9” Sections - 9’6”
The ‘S’ Net 9’6” Handle - 46’ Arms
XHN492-9646
Two x 4’ 9” Sections - 9’6”
The ‘S’ Net 9’6” Handle - 55’ Arms
XHN492-9655
Two x 4’ 9” Sections - 9’6”
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LANDING NETS
THE ‘E’-Net The ‘E’ Net matches our new series of ‘E’-Class rods being built from the same material with ‘Perdurable’ finish and to the same material specification. All components are stainless steel and with arms of 46” will cope with larger carp or catfish and ideal for French trips. The isotope is available separately. The 6’ one piece handle is finished with shrink rubber grips and a net clip.
The ‘E’- Net Model
Code
Handle
The ‘E’ Net 6’ Handle - 46’ Arms
XEN312-6046
One Section - 6’
LANDING NETS
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Mix ‘n’ Match Combinations To cope with all situations we have made available separately handles, arms and meshes. It is then possible to add additional sets of arms in different sizes or, if acceptable with fishery owners, the extra arms and mesh can be left at those waters insisting that a net is used exclusively at their water, this saves the expense of buying an extra handle.
HANDLES
LANDING NET MESHES
We have handles available in the original 6’ one piece and new 8’ two-piece and 9’6” two-piece. The 8’ two-piece is designed with carp and pike anglers in mind where platforms, high banks and near bank vegetation necessitates the use of a longer handle.
Available as replacement meshes or to use in conjunction with the separate arms for additional landing net head combinations. Olive green to blend in with green sack material at the top and all soft Hex mesh to be light when wet. Available in both shallow and deep meshes, the shallow is 80cm deep to the pan base and suits those wanting light weight meshes whilst the deep is 120cm deep for use on platforms or when you want to retain fish in the edge while sorting out scales and camera.
This is also very useful when taking to a boat where the handle can be broken down to 4’ and laid across the gunwales and fish can be brought securely back to shore or un-hooked in the net. The 9’6” is superb for the specialist angler when fishing for Barbel, Tench and Bream when combined with the 36” arms and mesh. Both two-piece handles feature shrink rubber grips to make un-shipping the sections easy even with wet hands.
Both the Hi-‘S’ and ‘S’ handles are supplied with the block attached since the fitting is unique to us and enables quick change of the arms as necessary.
ARMS Now available separately in 36” for the roving, specialist or river angler, 42” for those who prefer the traditional length carp net, 46” as preferred by many of us who fish in France or 55” for cats and Big Pike. Manufactured from the same carbons as used in the respective rod ranges.
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LANDING NETS
Landing Net Handles Model
Code
Length
The Hi-‘S’ Net 6’ Handle
XHN480/HAND6
One Section - 6’
The Hi-‘S’ Net 8’ Handle
XHN480/HAND8
Two Section - 8’
The ‘S’ Net 6’ Handle
XHN492/HAND6
One Section - 6’
The ‘S’ Net 8’ Handle
XHN492/HAND8
Two Section - 8’
The ‘S’ Net 9’6” Handle
XHN492/HAND96
Two Section - 9’6”
The ‘E’ Net 6’ Handle
XEN312/HAND
One Section - 6’
Model
Code
Length
The Hi-‘S’ Net 42’ Arms
XHN480/ARMS42
42” Pair
The Hi-‘S’ Net 46’ Arms
XHN480/ARMS46
46” Pair
The ‘S’ Net 36’ Arms
XSN492/ARMS36
36” Pair
The ‘S’ Net 42’ Arms
XSN492/ARMS42
42” Pair
The ‘S’ Net 46’ Arms
XSN492/ARMS46
46” Pair
The ‘S’ Net 55’ Arms
XSN492/ARMS55
55” Pair
The ‘E’ Net 46’ Arms
XEN312/ARMS46
46” Pair
Landing Net Arms
Landing Net Meshes Model
Code
Style
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 36’
LSN242M36
36” Shallow
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 42’ Deep
LSN242M42
42” Deep
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 42’ Shallow
LSN242M42S
42” Shallow
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 46’ Deep
LSN242M46
46” Deep
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 46’ Shallow
LSN242M46S
46” Shallow
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 50’ Deep
LSN242M50
50” Deep
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 50’ Shallow
LSN242M50S
50” Shallow
The ‘S’ Net Mesh 55’ Deep
LSN242M55
55” Deep
LANDING NETS
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