Reviews

At some point everyone goes through the motions of starting out with budget gear and rightly so, but somewhere down the line you want that setup that just has the extra level of finesse that is essentially your forever setup. This price point is the bracket in which anglers settle on and stick with, and you will never go far wrong with Daiwa as this is what it does best – solid, high-end gear that’s built to perform. The Infinity rods have always been known for their casting ability, and this latest version is tighter, more responsive and more refined. If you want a rod that’ll comfortably help you achieve distance or one that’s just a pleasure to use, look no further.

The blanks are built using Daiwa’s X45 carbon technology, which keeps twist to an absolute minimum. That’s what gives the rod its sharp recovery and predictable action, even when you’re really giving it some. It’s that kind of power with control that makes the difference when you’re pushing your casting, as often when you are on your limit, accuracy can deviate.

They’ve kept the styling clean with a touch of flare in adding an Alps reel seat, minimalist Seaguide rings and finished off with a slim profile and a subtle finish that’ll still look the part after a few seasons.

There are options in the range but the model we have is the 12ft 3.25lb and it’s a great all-rounder, covering most bases but depending on your own requirements you may find a different option more suitable, that is really personal preference.

No setup is complete without pairing it to a reel and that’s where the Daiwa 22 Whisker 45 SCW QD OT comes in; we know the name is a mouthful but it’s for good reason. This is one of Daiwa’s best big-pit options outside of the really high-end Basia territory, and it brings a lot to the table. The 45mm long cast spool gives it the range, and the Slow Cross Wrap system keeps your line lay neat and tight.

It comes supplied with three spools, the standard fitted spool, a long distance option and a super-long distance, which means you can load it to suit the job without buying extras. That alone makes a big difference for anglers who switch between venues or want to run braid on one and mono on another without respooling every time. Having a range of main lines on spools ready to go can be a real life saver.

The QD drag system is superb as you would expect on most Daiwa models; with fine adjustments you can alter the drag with meaning and precision. The Zaion V Air Rotor cuts weight without cutting strength, the same as its Basia brothers, and inside it’s all Digigear II.

Balance the two together, and the setup feels bang on. The rod loads well with it being a lighter test curve, if you prefer a slightly softer rod, then you will love the feel of these but saying that, even in the higher test curves they don’t feel overly stiff. You can fish it on weedy waters, big reservoirs, smaller day tickets, it doesn’t care where you are. It’s got the backbone for long-range work, the finesse for margin fishing, and the looks to match.

It’s also tough. You can tell it’s made to last. The components are quality, and it’s all built well. You’re not going to be looking for replacements any time soon.

At this price, you’re getting into serious gear but you’re also getting a setup that will handle everything you throw at it. You’re not buying to upgrade in a year, you’re buying something that’ll be sat on your buzzers when you’ve forgotten what you paid for them. That’s what makes it the ultimate all-round setup – proper casting, proper control, proper kit.

Infinity X45 Rods
RRP: From £489.99

22 Whisker 45 SCW QD OT Reels
RRP: £280

WEBSITE: www.daiwasports.com