Extensive field testing went into the final design of these rodswith some of the country’s top carp anglers giving valuable input onprototype versions prior to the rods specification being completed.

Built on a high modulus carbon blank the rods have been designedto produce a lovely through-action using a progressive forceacceleration taper, which simply stated means that the rod’s reservesof power only come into play as and when called upon. This ensuresthat should you be fortunate enough to hook into a large fish thepowerful butt section will allow you to pile on the pressure whilstretaining enough action in the tip to avoid hook pulls when playing afish under the rod tip or for margin fishing.

A nice touch is the full-length duplon handle described as acomfort feature. Although the majority of carp rods on the marketadopt a ‘spaced’ duplon arrangement the ‘Giant’ rods certainly feelssuperior to this when playing fish as the larger surface area gives afeel of greater stability when leaning into a hooked fish. The handleis completed with a slim Fuji reel seat, which blends in nicely withthe rods appearance.

The overall finish is superb; the slim burgundy blanks arecomplemented with dark whippings and a dull coloured steel butt capand ferrule trim. There is also a neat and effective line clipadjacent to the butt and the modest ‘Giant’ logo completes therefreshingly ‘understated’ appearance of the rods. SIC line guidesare fitted throughout, the number and spacing of which are defined bya computer aided design package which ensures best possiblearrangement to suit the rod’s particular test curve.

These rods represent remarkable value for money and really do havethe appearance and action of rods costing twice that price.

Although designed primarily as carp rods I am using the 12ft, 3lb TC version as a pike rod this winter and I used the same model for some French carp fishing a few weeks ago. Look out for a long-term user report on this website!

There are four models currently available, ranging from 2.25 to 3lb TC each with a recommended retail price of £ 99.99. Also available and built to the same specification is a spod rod, rated at 4lb TC, which retails at £ 79.99.