Recent content by Kevin Steele

I used to use Simms sling packs when I was fly fishing, partly because they were actually set up for left handers like me (strap over the right shoulder) and partly because I thought they were better designed than other brands. Orvis quality has gone downhill in the last 10 years, whereas their...

Looking for an 11ft rod for the Warwickshire Avon, targeting chub, up to about 50g casting weight. (I found a rod, but it turned out to be defective.) Please PM if you have anything to sell. Must be willing to ship if you live nowhere near the Cotswolds. .

The Tackle Tavern usually have a selection of good used barbel rods (and loads of other 'pre-loved' gear) and postage is free for purchases over £30.00. .

Funny to read about rod power and backbone, as if the one necessarily contributes to the other. There's a very good video of Mark Tunley circulating, where he explains how a rod that might be thought of as 'soft', or through-actioned, is best for playing specimen fish. He argues that a 'softer'...

SOLD. Free Spirit Barbel Tamer 12ft 1.75lb Never left the house. Two-piece rod with two tips: 1.75lb and 3oz (ideal for big chub). Asking £110.00 delivered.

Two Daiwa TDM 3012QD reels. Not a mark on them. Boxed with the original spares spools. Size is Daiwa's 'old' system and is more like 4000-5000 current Daiwa or Shimano. Loaded with 4lb Dave Harrell float line and Daiwa Hyper Sensor gunmetal in 6lb, 8lb and I think 5lb (I'll check). Asking...

The bodies are exactly the same - the only difference is the spool diameter. Nice reels (I used to have a few), good luck. .

That's exactly what I was told by an England international match fisherman and former retailer. Someone whose views I respect as being common-sensical. .

A bit like a non-fisherman commenting on fishing rods: "How much? For a beanpole?" 😉 .

Slightly off topic, but I found this 'Walkstool', at a birdwatching dealer when buying a scope. Extremely comfortable, and it'll take a huge weight, I might get one for roaming, or short sessions where I don't anticipate snoozing. https://www.walkstool.com

Pedantry alert: Those hooks are medieval. Neolithic means 'New Stone Age' - they didn't use metal hooks until the Bronze Age. My real name is Dr Alice Roberts. 😁 .

Makes sense to notice a difference between a 13ft and 14ft rod of the same spec, because of the difference in leverage, especially when there is a line through them. .

Drennan Acolyte Plus 12ft feeder In almost 'as new' condition (it's been used a few times, but you'd hardly know it from how clean the cork is). With three tips: 2oz, 2 1/2oz and 3oz (one more than they come with when new). With original bag and tube for the tips. Asking £165.00 delivered -...

SOLD Drennan Double Rod Hardcase. Used about six times and in perfect condition. Non-smoker. Sells for £80.00 plus post. Asking £45.00 delivered. Please PM.

Rod no longer for sale.