TACKLE GUIDE
This week we take a look at some of the float, feeder and specialist rods that are all ideally suited to targeting this river species over the few remaining weeks of the season
LOTS of anglers cut their teeth on rivers, and most of us live within a reasonable distance of a running water venue.
There are few better ways to learn about watercraft, fish feeding habits, or generally blending in with nature, than spending a few hours wetting a line on a river.
When it comes to the rods, what we use generally reflect our targeted species and they often come labelled up as ‘Carp Feeder’ or ‘Barbel Power’ rods, for example.
However, when it comes to casting a line for chub, it’s a very different kettle of fish, as a named ‘chub rod’ is rarer than rocking horse poo! So, to make your life easier, we’ve picked out 10 rods that are perfect for the job…
DRENNAN ACOLYTE SPECIMEN FLOAT RODS
SLIGHTLY stiffer than the popular Plus models, these versatile blanks have a fast-action tip to improve line management and pick-up, while providing better float control at distance. The progressive semi-through action has plenty of power lower down, giving added confidence and control when playing specimen-sized fish.
The forward action is still soft enough for catching smaller fish with light hooklengths, but these rods really come into their own when using bigger floats for larger specimens.
In 13ft, 14ft and 15ft lengths. WHY WE WOULD BUY ONE: A float rod on steroids! With plenty of power, yet still retaining the lighter characteristics expected of a waggler rod, these could well have been called ‘all-rounders!’ Price: £249.99 - £269.99, www.drennantackle.com
KORUM GLIDE 13FT POWER FLOAT
THESE rods combine a forgiving parabolic middle with a fast-recovering, high modulus carbon tip-end. With a line rating of 4lb to 12lb, along with large diameter guides, this is a rod to cover all your big-fish float needs. WHY WE WOULD BUY ONE:
A glorious and adaptable rod capable of handling the biggest of fish on the float – especially chub! Price: £74.99, www.korum.co.uk
KORUM ALL ROUNDER 11FT 1.25LB QUIVER
A SLIM and lightweight blank with a progressive action, this rod is as much at home on a stillwater as it is on a river.
It comes with 1oz and 2oz glass tips to offer minimal resistance to fast, sweeping bites, as well as a 3oz carbon tip for faster rivers. A full cork handle, classy graphics and high quality guides impart a luxury feel to this wallet-friendly rod.
WHY WE WOULD BUY ONE: When every penny counts and one rod must cover a range of disciplines, this cut-priced Swiss Army Knife of the rod world is well worth a look.
Price: £59.99, www.korum.co.uk
DRENNAN SPECIALIST 12FT TWIN TIP DUO 1.25LB
A PLEASING action f
