Deal of the decade!
Shimano’s latest offering is reliable, high performance, good looking, represents good value for money and more…
It’s okay, CARPology.net sympathises. You want a top-end rod performance without the eye-watering price tag. A rod which casts well, feels even better during a battle, and looks deliciously good on the buzz bars. But rods like that don’t exist without a two-five-zero behind the pound sign, right? But there may be another way. Shimano. Their 2015 re-release Tribal Velocity rod really is something special and ticks all of those boxes, including the one your missus/bank manager really care about: price.
Built on the ultra slim XT60 blank, the Velocity also has a strengthening 3K weave incorporated to maximise its strength
3K carbon fibre machined custom reel seat come as standard
This updated version of an all-time Shimano veteran carries many hallmarks of a rod twice its price. Built on some of the slimmest blanks available at the price point – an ultra slim XT60 blank – the Velocity also has a strengthening 3K weave incorporated to maximise its strength.
Performance-wise differs greatly depending on the test curve you opt for. The lightest model in the collection, 12ft 2.75lb is a more progressive fish playing rod, whilst the brute of the pack, the 13ft 3.5lb, is designed to accurately cast big leads and PVA bags to extreme distances. There are also 10 and 11ft versions available which have been specially designed for the day ticket or boat angler where shorter casting distance is required. This shorter length vastly improves casting accuracy, giving more control in confined swims.
The shrink tube rubber split grip looks stunning
All 12 and 13ft feature 50mm butt rings
In terms of cosmetics, all models are fitted with Shimano’s Hardlite guides, along with 50mm butt rings on all the 12 and 13ft models, a 16mm Anti-Wrap Tip Ring, 3K carbon fibre machined custom reel seat, shrink tube rubber split grip, protective line clip, rod pod stopper and a stainless butt cap. It’s stunning, but then nothing’s been left to chance. Shimano set out to make a real statement with the Tribal Velocity – both with the cosmetics and, of course, the price.
The 16mm Anti-Wrap Tip Ring is a lovely touch
Along with a rod pod stopper, a stainless butt cap, there’s also a protective line clip
Ah yes, that award-winning price tag Shimano has stuck on these. Normally £149.99 a piece, but right now they’re less than half price at £69.99 – and better still, you can buy three for just £199.99! Awesome work, Shimano, you’ve clearly got your mojo back. shimano.com