Solid Defenders From JRC

Cast your mind back to the late 20th century and—just like the number of UK 40s back then—you could list prominent carpy brand names on the fingers of two hands. Defender from JRC was one such trademark, adorning one of the few commercially available bedchairs in the 1990s. Defender has since become a signpost for good value in the JRC range, as clearly shown with these new rods.

1. Extensive range
There are four different lengths in the JRC range and plenty of test curves. At the shorter end there are two 10-footers (a cork or shrink-rubber choice, both with 3lb test curves), a single 11-footer (3lb test curve), then five 12ft fishing rods, plus a 12ft spod rod. If you want the beefiest model in the range it’s a 13ft 3.5lb-test-curve option. 

2. Value for money 
If you remember the original Defender products then it’s probably fair to assume that you’re a seasoned carper and these rods aren’t for you. But you may well know a beginner or improver who’d benefit from adding a set to their rod bag. With prices starting from £49.99 (and topping out at £82.99) and plenty of features, they represent great tools for newcomers to the sport. 

Cosmetics
As with so many rods these days, the new Defenders certainly don’t look cheap and nasty despite their low RRPs. They have a slimline profile thanks to a carbon composite blank and boast a subtle look that’ll blend in when surrounded by high-end gear.

Fixtures and fittings
A neat touch on these rods is the inclusion of an integrated line clip—a handy device which can help tell the difference between genuine bites and liners—which saves on the need to go out and buy a clip-on alternative. You also get a DPS reel seat and a high-quality shrink-rubber handle grip.

Guides 
Perhaps surprisingly at this price point, the JRC Defender range is festooned with lightweight TS SIC guides. That’s a big plus point as far as we’re concerned. Tough yet lightweight guides help a rod snap back into position more quickly after a cast, aiding distance and accuracy.