For anglers looking to cast effectively at distances of 50 meters, the Preston Supera X 12ft Feeder rod has emerged as a standout choice. Crafting the ideal tool for this challenging distance can often seem like a daunting task. "That distance sits right between your standard feeder fishing rod and something with a lot more of the chuck factor," explained tackle tester Dan Webb.
"That distance sits right between your standard feeder fishing rod and something with a lot more of the chuck factor,"
Factors such as wind and water conditions can significantly impact casting effectiveness. On calm days, standard rods perform admirably, yet the challenge escalates under windy conditions. Webb noted, "Use your distance rod for 50m and, unless you’re fishing in the tail end of a hurricane, you’ll be hitting the clip far too hard and high in the air.” This statement encapsulates the weighty concerns that many anglers share when it comes to optimal performance.
Throughout his angling journey, Webb has been on a quest to find a rod that doesn't sacrifice sensitivity for power. He emphasized the need for a rod that is not only capable of casting further but can still convey the subtlety of fish bites. "I’ve struggled for years to find the perfect rod that doesn’t have dinner plate guides and a huge powerful blank," he stated, articulating the blend of attributes he sought in a feeder rod.
"I’ve struggled for years to find the perfect rod that doesn’t have dinner plate guides and a huge powerful blank,"
Team Dynamics
Earlier this year, he previewed the Supera X range, an evolution of the earlier Supera rods. The updated models are characterized by a thinner, crisper design and lightweight construction, aided by a refined stiffening weave. Webb remarked, "Improving on near-perfection was always going to be very difficult, but the team have managed it by making these rods a little thinner and crisper with the help of a stiffening weave on the lower half, and lighter still with new large, yet ultra-fine, guides."
In terms of length, the Supera X line has seen a simplification; now available in exact increments of 9ft, 10ft, 11ft, and 12ft. Webb noted the strategic design alterations aimed at making the rods even more effective for their intended distances. "Even the handle lengths have been slightly altered to suit the uses and casting distances required of each model," he observed.
"Even the handle lengths have been slightly altered to suit the uses and casting distances required of each model,"
Focusing on the 12ft rod, Webb recognized its versatility. He described it as a tool adept at handling various fishing situations, particularly for targeting larger wild fish without losing the intricate feel in a fight. He explained, "What I see in the 12ft Supera X is that perfect balance between power and finesse for catching wild natural fish on lakes and reservoirs at 40m-55m." This element of finesse and sensitivity is critical for many anglers engaged in the sport.
The real test came during a recent outing at Lambsdown Lake in Coventry, where Webb was determined to see how the rod performed in real fishing scenarios. "I had to make do with the next-best thing – Lambsdown Lake at Meadowlands, near Coventry, is a favourite winter haunt of mine that feels and fishes very much like a natural water," he shared. Armed with the Supera X, he began casting to find the ideal range.
"I had to make do with the next-best thing – Lambsdown Lake at Meadowlands, near Coventry, is a favourite winter haunt of mine that feels and fishes very much like a natural water,"
"Although I could reach 60m-plus in the flat calm conditions, 50m was indeed that sweet spot," he stated, highlighting his ability to consistently hit this distance comfortably. The rod’s capabilities were put to the test further as he later targeted fish and discovered how well he could maintain control while fishing in seemingly adverse conditions.
"Although I could reach 60m-plus in the flat calm conditions, 50m was indeed that sweet spot,"
Bright and calm conditions didn’t deter him, as he methodically worked the area with smaller feeders. Despite the rod's extra power, he felt equipped to discern every subtle movement from the fish. Webb remarked, "I could feel every pluck and sensation of the fight through that stunningly light blank," which emphasizes the rod's performance under practical fishing conditions.
"I could feel every pluck and sensation of the fight through that stunningly light blank,"
After this testing experience, Webb concluded, "As you read this, I am now the proud owner of two of the 12ft Supera X rods, and they will be with me throughout my Feedermaster, Feeder King and natural water festivals this summer." His endorsement underscores the confidence he has in the rod and its suitability for diverse fishing conditions and competitions.
