new rod

[New Kid]

I'm after a new rod that I can use for float fishing on commercials that can handle carp up to 25lb.Ive heard that a power waggler rod will do the job. I've been looking in various fishing mags. and am now more confused cos some show the various main and hook length reccomended line strengths.How can i get the right rod if it doesn't indicate the line strength? Can using too strong a line damage the rod?

[Gav Barbus]

New Kid I would go for an Avon type rod about 1.5 lb if you are going to be catching the heavier carp regularly,I have a power waggler rod it is fine on fish upto about 10 lb but bigger fish you will be undergunned I feel.If using a float rod and heavy line if the fish runs and you do not concede line it can snap them .Not sure about the eyes as well it probably would damage them if hauling all the time with heavy fish big lines and delicate eyes.

[New Kid]

Gav Ive just seen a Shimano alivio barbel classic 1.5 test curve rod advertised at Fosters of Birmingham for £55.99. Would this do the job?

[Paul H]

If they go up to 25lb I'd look at the 1.75lb version.

If still waters and carp are your thing though a barbel rod maybe isn't the best tool for the job. I don't know your budget but under £100 try something like:

Korum, I'm sure you'll find them under £100.

Shimano, the feeder version of the barbel rod you've seen.

Too strong aline could damage a rod but only if you don't play the fish correctly. By that I mean within the rods capabilities.

Strong line, say 80lb braid, could snap a rod with a low test curve. Conversely a 3lb test curve rod could easily snap lower breaking strain lines. This doesn't mean you can't use combinations like this. I for example do have some 80lb braid which gets used with 1.75lb test curve rods for predator fishing.

The thing is to make sure that your clutch is set to give line before the rod gives way. You will get used to setting the clutch with experience but a good way to start out is by hooking a heavy object like your tackle bag before casting out. Lift the rod until it gets a healthy bend in it, now set the clutch to give line either before the rod or the line snaps.

This way the rod will absorb the lunges and do it's job but should the fish exert more pressure than that the clutch will kick in and give a little line.

[Gav Barbus]

New kid that will do the job no problems ,I used to use and still do usebarbel rods for carp.You don't want a stiff poker carp rod for commercials mate .You will enjoy the fight of the smaller carp but still have the power to stop a biggie with an Avon.

[New Kid]

Paul, All i am loking for really is a float rod that will take 10lb+ line and be able to take up to a 25lb carp without it breaking. I have carp rods but they are not the slim ones and i find them a bit awkward.I like to float fishand need something that will hold the bigger fish should they come along.Any ideas?

[New Kid]

Gav Didn't see your post til after I replied to paul. Thank's for your reply I appreciate it .

[FH]

I bought a carp waggler rod at Amazon, it has faired me well. I use it for legering, but mostly float fishing. The link to where you can see it is here

I have the 13' Nash Specialist Power and it's a bit of a beast - definitely best with lines of 8lb upwards as it has bags of power. It's been tested with barbel to 8lb or so and carp to16lb plus and it was definitely in it's element.

I know they are discontinued now but Climax Tackle might still have a few knocking around.

Dave

[JUZ]

Drennan 13ft power carp, not too expensive, bit heavy to hold but it has a lot of power for a float rod. Dont get trapped into getting a rod that is too heavy, it takes the fun out of fighting the fish, most lighter rods will handle larger fish in the hands of an experienced angler. You will probably hooking a lot of smaller fish inbetween the 25lbers anyway.