All Reviews

Today we are checking out the 11ft Carp Feeder model, which is one of six rods available in the Aero X1 range, split into Carp Feeder and Distance Feeder models. Each rod in the range has been engineered with completely unique custom-designed actions to perfectly deliver what each specific rod is designed to do. The Carp Feeder models are available in 9ft, 10ft, 11ft and 12ft variants, whereas the Distance Feeder models in the range consist of the 12ft and 13ft options. So, it’s fair to say there’s a rod here to cover pretty much any feeder situations you’re likely to encounter.

The Aero X1 range is an impressive concept and an impressive range of rods designed using full carbon blanks (rather than cheaper composite materials) to deliver the best performance possible at this price range. As soon as you take the rods from the bag you’ll notice how premium they look and feel in the hand. They take much of their design and features from the more expensive flagship Aero range and that’s evident once you start to have a waggle with them. The rods are fitted with Shimano Hardlite guides to deliver the best line management and casting performance possible, with the distance models fitted with special anti-tangle guides to prevent any unwanted issues when you’re winding the rods up for those big casts. The rods are all supplied with two quivertips so you can tailor your bite detection to suit the day and the conditions.

The rod handle and reel seat are beautifully designed and are very unique to boot. The reel seat features a very secure locking grip and the handle itself is a bespoke shape and design with a beautifully flared handle shape to offer ultimate grip. While there are many rods out there on the market claiming to do the same job, these models from Shimano are beautifully designed, superbly finished and well worth a closer look – just check out those prices below, too! You get A LOT of rod for your money here.

We’ve come to Boddington Reservoir today and I’ve set up a few different rods for different tests. Today this 11ft Shimano model is for fishing on a bomb line where I can loose feed 8mm pellets. Of course, this rod is capable of doing much more than that and will be a superbly versatile companion for fishing in either open water or tight up to islands. An 11ft model is probably one of the most versatile lengths of rod you can opt for as it’s the perfect ‘do it all’ length, providing you don’t need to fish beyond 60 metres or so. I can well imagine that for a lot of anglers this would be a ‘carry everywhere’ too that’ll be at home almost everywhere that you take it. The fit and finish of these X1s is superb with beautiful detailing and lovely carbon weave on the butt section.

The full carbon blanks contribute to a beautiful through action, which is perfect for both optimal fish playing and casting performance. You wouldn’t believe this 11ft model comes in at just £64.99!

FEATURES:
Reel Seat
Custom Shimano reel seat with EVA screw down hood. Main handle is an ergonomic EVA design and has different lengths to suit models' usage and casting range.

Hook Keeper
Custom Shimano Fold Down hook keeper with smooth design to attach your hook more efficiently during transport or when placing on a roost bar.

Full Carbon Blanks
The full carbon blanks produce a lightweight, but deceptively strong blank, that possesses excellent playing actions and a responsiveness not usually found on rods in this price category.

Quivertips
All models are supplied with two interchangeable carbon tips. These are balanced to the action of the rod and offer maximum bite detection.

Hardlite Guides
Quality Shimano Hardlite guides for excellent line management and casting performance. Distance models have larger anti-tangle guides for reduced friction when casting.

RRPs:
Carp Feeder
9ft – £54.99
10ft – £59.99
11ft – £64.99
12ft – £69.99

Distance Feeder
12ft – £69.99
13ft – £74.99

WEBSITE: fish.shimano.com