A float rod is the cornerstone of the pleasure angler’s arsenal, and for me it’s worth a good investment in a tool that will do exactly what I ask of it.
When it comes to quality tackle in this area, you’re not going to go wrong with Preston Innovations – especially when the word ‘Absolute’ is involved.
The Absolute 12ft Float Rod is at the top of the tree with an RRP of £189.99, but as I said, a good investment – get five seasons from it and you’re looking at less than £40 a year.
Finances aside, the big question is, how does the rod fish? And after getting out on the bank for a few sessions, with the rod I can report what you’d expect – it’s a joy to use!
The majority of the fishing I’ve done with it has been at commercials for Roach. Whether you’re casting dainty or heavy floats the rod loads and deploys beautifully for precise and, if needed, powerful casting.
The three-piece unit is balanced and light, making it very easy to use and live with over long sessions.
Fishing at a decent range, even in this 12ft format, the line pick up is crisp, making hitting fast Roach bites a lot easier.
This is a proper traditional float rod designed for low-diameter lines and small fish – it’s rated for line between 2lb and 6lb – which it does with aplomb. But, if needed, the rod does have enough guts tempered with a really forgiving action to allow you to play in better fish – something I did with a few rogue Carp. Even with light gear the rod sucked up violent lunges with ease.
All in all a beautiful rod produced by great angling minds focused on a proper tool on the bank. If you can afford it and are in the market for a 12ft float rod, do not overlook it.
Description
Until now the name Absolute has been reserved only for our very best, top-end poles, but when we had our team of star consultants literally arguing about who got to use each of the samples, there was clearly only one name appropriate for this stunning range of rods.
Manufactured using the most advanced carbon blanks, the Absolute rod range have been designed for natural venues with traditional styles of fishing, but are more than capable of landing plenty of match carp. This is without doubt the best complete range of rods since the launch of the Carbon Active brand.
Features
Advanced carbon blank
Sublime through action
Ideal for all variations of Waggler fishing
Easy to handle when playing the fish
Quality lined guides
Soft touch reel seat