Hi All

I currently have the original john wilson avon quiver rod, must about 10 years old now. Since starting up fishing again back in March this year I have just been using this. Its actually done me very well, catching an 18lb carp (though it took near to 30 mins to bring in, on 6lb line, plus numerous other carp, just waggler fishing, a 7 & 5.5 lb Barbel and lots of decent chub.

Now I would like a new rod and have been looking at the newer John Wilson Avon quiver but also noticed that there is a Barbel version. Is it really worth getting a specific barbel rod? or just stay with a general rod or a feeder rod.

Also question about reels, I have always used a rear drag reel, however I feel a bait runner may be better. What type of reels do people use?

Thanks
Dave

hi Dave,if you look in the reviews and guides section theres lots of stuff on rods n reels in there mate.

cheers

kev.

Hi Dave,

The type of tackle you use depends on the circumstances.

Rods have a certain action [the type of bend it has] which suit certain types of fishing (e.g. float or feeder etc..)

Choose a rod based on the presentation or tactics you want to use.

I'll use a feeder rod with small floats to tame fish under the rod tip, because of its progressive action (softer top section) I am able to fish close in. I will also use a waggler rod (all through softer action) as a feeder or freeline rod because I am able to flick the tackle under arm more accurately under low hanging trees on the far bank.

So far as reels are concerned, choose one which will balance the rod and is smooth when you turn the handle. If the reel has a clutch (front or rear) or free spool, make sure this works well and smoothly. There are some very good cheap reels, however, the old one "you get what you pay for" can be very true.

Thanks Guys

I now have a 13ft waggler, as well as the JW Avon quiver, just trying to get a better understanding of the different types of rods and reels that are about these days. A lot seems to have changed since I fished.

I suppose I want a rod that could be used for different scenario's, I think the new Avon quiver will do it, but could a barbel rod or even a feeder rod be better as they may be slight stronger.

Cheers
Dave

I use a combo of a Grey's Barbel 1.75 and Shimano Baitrunner GTE 5000, works for most situations

There is a deal at my local angling shop for Shimano Vengeance barbel rod and a shimano bait runner, plus 1000 mtrs 8lb line, £100. Or could go for JW one and then try and get a deal on a baitrunner.

Anyone have the shimano rod?

Hi Dave,

Have a look at the rod and see if you thinks it's right for you and the methods you intend to use it for.

Although a rod might be good with good reviews, you might get a Friday rod which will leave you fuming, so always carefully check the rod you are going to buy.

Check the handle, reel seat, rings and check that the bend in the rod doesn't have flat spots.

Thanks Ian

You have been very helpful.

Cheers
Dave

Rods:
I have two 1.25lb tc John Wilson Avon/Quivers (the older type) which I have used for Chub and ‘small’ Barbel as well as Tench and small Carp; but I found that they were not very good at handling the larger Barbel on the small rivers and streams where I fish. Plus my reels kept falling off so I had to use short sections of Bicycle inner tube over the handles to prevent this happening (especially annoying at night).
So if it was me I would buy a good Barbel rod of between 1.5lb or 1.7lb. especially if you want to catch decent sized Barbel or Carp on your river/stream.

I now have two rods that cover all my Barbel fishing; One is a multi-tip specialist rod with 1.5lb/2lbtc tip sections and the other is a 1.7lbtc Avon/Quiver; these two rods cover all my Barbel fishing from low water up to floodwater.
Mine are made by Greys but the John Wilson ones are also great; as are the Harrisons, Fox, Shimano, Drennan and Diawa Barbel rods. Although they all have slightly different through actions & weight & blank widths so I would try them in the shop first before deciding to see which ones suit you.

Reels:
There is no real necessity for Baitrunners when Barbel fishing and a lot of Barbel anglers don’t like to use them; however I use them for the ease in setting up and threading my line etc. and because I have used them for many years and have become used to them over time.

I use Shimano Baitrunners (both in the 4000 & 5000 series) but if funds were a bit tight I would also use Okuma Baitrunners which I have heard people say are good. I own an Okuma Sheffeld which is a quality centrepin so I know they too make good reels. I would also be quite happy using a decent reel without the Bairunner facility if I had to.

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Thanks Keith

I assume I have the same John Wilson rod as yourself, has done me brilliantly so far since I started up fishing again in March. I have actually managed PB's for Chub, Barbel and carp using it, which I am pleased for starting up again.

If your original JW rod is 1.25 then I think I will look at a 1.75, it will just give me that little bit more if strong fish or in faster water.

I do not have loads to spend, may be £80 or so. The Shimano and JW new barbel rods are similar in strength and price, so will just have to test them.

Cheers again
Dave