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New rod recommendations

R

Ricky Middleton

Senior Member
I have a few quid to put towards a new rod from my birthday that has just passed

As its a collective gift from the family etc I want to make sure its money well spent and I get joy from using it as well, rather than a watch or something to look at

so I'm considering

Freespirit specialist Advanced 2 1/4 lb
Freespirit Barbel Seeker Specialist - not sure on TC
Harrison Chimera Specialist No2 1.75lb
Harrison torrix 1.75lb or 2lb

Looking at the higher end of the TC range so I can use it in flood etc between the trent and Dove

your thoughts, experiences and recommendations are welcome

Im considering having something customised but if anyone can give me their opinions on those above it would be very helpfull
 
Twin tip rods seem like a good idea to me to cover a variety of conditions but don't have any experience of them myself.
 
Ricky, I was in a similar position earlier this year and in the end, I put a bit more money in and had a rod built by Bob Gill. It was the right choice-a fantastic rod with some bespoke/ personal elements that just made it special.

You will get such a variety of responses to the rods you have listed that your head will be spinning. In fact, just look back at the rod survey results-that should help. They will all do a fab job I am sure so it comes down to personal preference and what is most important to you. I also have a Daiwa Infinity which I rate highly.
 
Im in the market for a new rod soon and at the moment have the Torrix 2, excellent rod;) but my new rod will be the Torrix flood, I think its 2 1/2 which will cope better with the heavier leads. The Torrix 2 can lob 6oz out but I would feel more confident with the extra back bone. The Torrix is an excellent rod but I cant speak for the others.
 
The last 2 rods that i've bought have been from Peregrine rods, custom built rods to the highest spec.
They have a web site to have a look at but best to give them a call.
 
Always try before you buy....... Use forum members nearby to aid you.
 
Dave Bartell said:
Go for a Harrison, failing that, get a Harrison or as a last resort.....A Harrison :D
Click to expand...

If none of the above are suitable then definitely go for a Harrison. However if I could only have 1 rod for all my Barbel fishing it would be a Harrison with another Harrison as my second choice..............assuming I could not get hold of a Harrison of course...............
 
Howard Cooke said:
had a rod built by Bob Gill. It was the right choice-a fantastic rod with some bespoke/ personal elements that just made it special.
Click to expand...

This is what I did with a Torrix for stalking a small river near to me.
Its the little personal touches that make it.
Always smile when I pick it up.

Build quality is excellent.
Can't put it into words, but having a rod custom built is just special. :)
 
Bob get your photos on and post up some rod porn.
 
Another vote for Bob. Had a 1.75 torrix built last year and its a stunning rod. Quick turn round and good price you won't be disappointed.
 
I would have thought a Chimera 3 would be better suited, particularly if you're fishing in flood on a larger river, and don't want a rod specifically built for flood water fishing. I don't own a Harrison as I love what I use (Normarks), but when they break/degrade/etc I'll go for a pair of Chimeras.

I'm sure you'll love whatever you choose, and good luck with it.
 
Thanks for all the kind comments. Working on a new look website at the moment - could take some time!
For Clive - a rodporn picture of some recently built rods - all Harrison of various finishes and fittings.

rodporn.jpg


Cheers
Bob
 
have to say I prefer the i-power over the torrix personally. I have 4 in total all built by Bob and like others feel sure you wont find anyone better.
 
A nice position to be in. I think a hand built Torrix would fit the Bill. As the chaps say there are a number of master craftsmen and a variety of personal touches to be made. They are works of art and a joy to use, I have had a 1.75 and 1.5, a number of friends have them too.
 
Richard Hamlyn said:
If none of the above are suitable then definitely go for a Harrison. However if I could only have 1 rod for all my Barbel fishing it would be a Harrison with another Harrison as my second choice..............assuming I could not get hold of a Harrison of course...............
Click to expand...

I personally would go for a Harrison!.......love mine.
 
Just to concur with previous posts regards the Torrix. Bob has recently built me a Torrix 1.75-2.0 twin tip [ center of his posted pic., with the ALPS reel fitting and extended hardwood butt ]. It really is a lovely rod and will cope with most conditions with ease.
It looked so good that her indoors suggested that I hang it on the wall !
 
Definitely a Harrison.

Not used the Chimera barbel rods but have had Chimera carp rods for a good 8 or 9 years now and love them to bits.

Based on how good the Harrison blanks are, I got myself a Torrix 1.75 custom built last year and have to say its a very impressive rod.

If I had to choose another rod, it would be a Torrix;)
 
flood and snag for me

i do own a few harrison's myself:eek:
i've chimera 1s 2s and 3s and they are all great rods but my favourite:
11.6ft flood and snag a proper rod that bends on the smallest of barbel but with power in reserve;)
 
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