Shimano Tribal Velocity Rods

Shimano Tribal Velocity Rods

Pick up a Shimano Tribal Velocity and the first thing you’ll notice is how incredibly slim the blank is. Made from XT60 carbon, with an integrated 3k carbon weave on the butt section for additional strength as well as stunning cosmetics, this is one of the slimmest and strongest blanks available from Shimano at this kind of price point. As you might imagine the action of the rod differs depending on the test curve. If you’re interested in investing in a top quality all-round rod that superb at fish playing then Shimano would recommend the 12ft 2.75lb because of its progressive action. For a distance casting, lead punching machine Shimano would recommend the 13ft 3.5lb version instead.

All the rods in the range are fitted with 50mm butt guides and taper to a 16mm tip guide. This tip guide is oversized to limit the possibility of crack offs and is anti-wrap, too. All the guides on the Tribal Velocity have double legs to increase recovery rate. The butt cap on this rod is made from anti-scratch aluminium – perfect for tackle tarts who often find themselves fishing in gravely swims. The handle is in full Japanese shrink wrap, which is minimalistic and emphasises the slimness of the rod itself. The handle also features a back-stop, which is in place to stop the rod from being wrenched off your rod support system and into the water after a particularly aggressive take.

The reel seat on this rod is completely compatible with any single Shimano reel. Some combinations of rods and reels with balance better than others, but having this universal combination fit allows the choice to remain up to the angler rather than dictated by the rod itself. This has lead to some unexpected killer combos on the bank and encourages creative and playful angling. The line clip on the Tribal Velocity is plastic, rather than carbon, as, after extensive tests and feedback from anglers at the bank, Shimano found that a carbon line clip had the tendency to crimp or kink line, whereas a plastic line clip kept line looking fresh off the spool.

To finish this rod the Velocity logo, delicately emblazoned on the side of the rod, is handwritten – giving this rod a custom feel that’s perfect for a lifetime of carp fishing.