My favorite fishing rod

People often ask me what my favourite fishing rod is. In fact, maybe I shouldn't answer this question by fear of leading my readers who are currently looking to purchase a new rod in believing that there is a single best rod on the market. However, the product I want to present here is so exceptional that it is worth being showcased and perhaps its competitors will push themselves to innovate with more fervour.

I will now admit that even if I had an unlimited budget to choose a rod from the entire selection available at the department, I would go with the Fenwick Walleye. Its price? The Fenwick Walleye costs approximately $100, and there are rods tagged at $150, $200 and even $250 that I wouldn't trade for this marvel. Why is this rod my sweet spot? Take one and hold it horizontally. Its weight alone could be enough to convince you. It is a lot lighter than many more expensive rods. But the lightness of its ultra-modern graphite is not its only asset. Put its sensitivity to the test and you will be amazed. In fact, I am still wondering if after having tried fishing with so many different rods I have ever found another one that was as sensitive.

From a technical point of view, the Fenwick Walleye exceeds all expectations. It is obvious that it was designed by anglers. Its cork handle is longer than most other rods, allowing a more comfortable grip. It is long enough that you relieve the tension that builds up in your wrists during those long hours of trolling by pressing the handle on your forearm. You will also notice that its guides are much longer than those of comparable rods. This reduces the friction between the line and the eyelets, since your open reel is in low position. By the way, the Walleye's eyelets, like those of the most sophisticated rods, are made of titanium, which makes them resistant to braided lines such as the Fireline.

One cannot ignore the main characteristic that makes this Fenwick totally unique. The reel seat is not only adjustable on one side, but it can be unscrewed from both sides. This provides all the flexibility you need to move the reel up or down the rod, depending on if it is heavier or lighter. Finally, effective balancing!

The Fenwick Walleye is available in three different action levels: medium-light, medium and medium-heavy. The difference between these action levels mostly reflects the ability of each one to cast lures of different weights. In terms of the rod's reaction, there are also distinctions. Medium-light and medium models have a more parabolic and uniform curve, which is preferred by some anglers when fishing for trouts and walleyes. The medium-heavy, on the other hand, has a fast taper/tip action, so it is its tip that will bend when trying to pull up a catch. Lengths vary depending on the use you plan to make of it. The most common models are 6’, 6 ½ ’ and 7’.

In the end, no description can do it justice. This rod is one of the few models that speak for themselves when used for the first time. But be careful! The risk of becoming dependent is very high!