Hi-‘S’ Heavy Waters

These rods have been developed in both the Hi-‘S’ and Barbel Tamer ranges, offering both the top end and more affordable options. Over the past two years, Shaun Harrison has been heavily involved in the development of these and like many of our testers, is more than a bit demanding to ensure actions and performance are as good as we can make them.

In recent years, catching barbel in winter has become increasingly popular, especially in powerful rivers such as the Trent and Wye. One of the challenges is coping with long casting and heavy water flows with the use of feeders and gripper leads of 8oz or more, necessary for effective bait presentation.

Since it is necessary to have good bite registration, the very tip of the rod needs to be sensitive. The way the tip reacts with the flow is critical—the rod top needs to nod in the current to prevent the lead or feeder from being dislodged. The action required is different from a carp blank, even though the test curves may be similar, so we felt it necessary to develop specific rods for the purpose rather than offer re-badged carp rods.

When the river is in spate condition, there are obstructions and floating debris to contend with, so rods are fished with the tip high in the air to reduce the drag on the line. We offer these rods in 12’ but also 13’ to help get the tip up as high as possible.

All rods feature the same Hi-‘S’ carbons, Perdurable finish and Clone 1k seat built in between ‘A’ grade cork fore grip and rear handle. Guides are black-framed ‘S’-Lites with both 30mm and long-range 40mm versions available. A full custom build is available on these.

Finally, a word from Julian Barnes about the HW’s:

“Last session of the season on the Tidal Trent, 45 mph winds, heavy rain, sleet and snow. Nearly gave up after 3 sections and 4 swims, but finally found fish and had nine… 12-02 and this magnificent fish at 16-08. The rods are awesome!!”