Reviews

If you’re putting together a full carp setup and want solid gear from a brand you can trust, this rod and reel combo from Shimano ticks a lot of boxes. The TX-1B Carp Rod and Aerlex 14000 XTC Reel offer that familiar Shimano quality in a format that’s simple, dependable, and truthfully, a bargain.

Shimano TX-1B Carp Rod

The TX-1B is Shimano’s answer to anglers wanting quality at a sensible price. Built on a lightweight full carbon blank, it’s got the casting backbone you need to hit distance but softens up nicely through the tip for playing fish. Stainless guides, a DPS reel seat and a slim EVA handle keep things functional and familiar. Simple fittings keeping the cost down.

It’s available in multiple lengths and test curves, with the 12ft 3.00lb being a go-to for most situations, with the Intensity model offering increased casting power for solid PVA bag work, yet the 10ft model comfortable in tighter swims, on smaller venues and from a boat. Or if you need all-out range the 13ft Intensity offers an extremely budget friendly solution. The understated styling, blacked-out finish and minimal logos keep it smart without looking like a budget rod.

Lots of anglers these days fish a variety of waters, so having the choice between compact and long-distance options in the same rod family rather than a ‘one rod to do it all’ type approach makes this range incredibly versatile. Whether you’re creeping around the margins on a day session or punching leads on a big pit, there’s a TX-1B that fits the bill, meaning for the price of a mid-range setup, you could have two! Another option worth considering.

The blank responds well to compression without feeling too stiff, and the action feels forgiving enough to reduce hook-pulls under the tip. That makes it a good rod for newer anglers.

RRP: £59.99 to £79.99

Shimano Aerlex 14000 XTC Reel

To match, the Aerlex 14000 XTC brings a lot of reel tech over from Shimano’s higher-end models. You get Super Slow 5 Oscillation, Aero Wrap II, and a cold-forged aluminium AR-C spool, all working to improve line lay and casting distance.

The G Free Parallel Body helps shift the reel’s weight closer to the rod, improving balance and reducing fatigue on longer sessions. Inside, Silent Drive makes the retrieve feel tight and smooth. It runs on a 4.3:1 gear ratio, retrieves 103 centimetres of line per turn, and weighs in at 630g. It also features Shimano’s Instant Drag, making it quick and easy to lock up or back off when needed.

Line capacity is generous (0.35mm/550m), and the matte black finish keeps the whole setup looking sharp and low-key.

You also get 2+1 bearings and a wide rotor design that makes line lay even more consistent across the spool. The drag system is clean and intuitive, giving you fast access to fully lock-up or slack, gone are the days of constant winding to loosen the clutch. The cold-forged spool not only boosts durability but helps deliver a smooth release of line on the cast – especially useful when fishing at distance or with lighter leads.

It’s the kind of reel that fits easily into any setup, it’s as usable on the 10ft TX1-B as it is on the 13ft Intensity; the Aerlex doesn’t stand out visually but holds its unmistakably part of the Shimano stable. The all-black finish also gives it a modern, subtle look that sits well with most rods on the market. And while it’s priced under £120, there’s very little about it that feels entry level; yes it’s not carbon bodied or superlight weight but at that money, you can’t argue with the value.

RRP: £119.99

From just under £200, you’re getting a fully Shimano-built setup with casting performance, pedigree, and all the reliability the brand is known for.

This combo isn’t trying to compete with high-end custom builds or top of the range kit but it could sit amongst it visually without too much suspicion. It’s the kind of setup that suits anglers who want value from a history brand but ideal for newcomers getting their first proper carp setup, or experienced anglers looking to put together a second set for a more specific job.

Website: fish.shimano.com