Gear Review: Daiwa Tatula Elite AGS Rods

WHAT IS IT?

Daiwa Tatula Elite AGS Rods

WHAT SETS IT APART?

Ultimately, the AGS (Air Guide System) frame relays vibrations on the line directly into your hand. The carbon fiber guides weigh a mere fraction of the weight of traditional guides — 40% lighter than an equivalent sized titanium guide. 

Developed to eliminate blank twist and increase power, X45 features what’s called a Bias Wrap Construction, with a left/right 45-degree carbon weave within the blank. The results are improved rod strength and durability, allowing for a lighter, stronger and more powerful and sensitive rod. 

Daiwa’s new Airsensor Reel Seat design made of lightweight carbon creates a compact and comfortable feel, while higher carbon density SVF Nanoplus blanks are lighter with even more sensitive than standard SVF blanks. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

There’s a rod for every situation, ideally paired with the compatible Daiwa reel. Here’s the lineup. 

Patrick Walters: Jerkbait

Chris Johnston: Hair jig; Ned rig

Cory Johnston: Soft stick bait/football jig

Seth Feider: Hair jig/Neko; jerkbait 

Randy Howell: Shaky head/small swimbait/drop shot

Takahiro Omori: Cranking and pitching rods

Ish Monroe: Frog, flipping, flipping/pitching

Brent Erhler: Power finesse, multi-purpose, finesse/drop shot

Cody Meyer: Neko/wacky/tube

HOW MUCH?

Beginning at $299.99

MORE INFORMATION: 

Daiwa.us

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

I grew fond of Daiwa’s entry into the pro-inspired idea of rods back in the days of the Dream Team lineup of Rick Clunn, Larry Nixon, Denny Brauer, Guido Hibdon and others. Rod designs were hyper-focused on the specific specialties of those pros, making them ideal for maximizing lure performance and getting bass back to the boat. This latest iteration of rods takes the concept to the next level. Fishing techniques and lures are even more specialized, requiring the perfect balance of rod and reel for all the elements to work in harmony. You get all of that with the new Tatula Elite AGS lineup of rods. Take your pick from what best suits your angling style, and you’ll be taking your game to the highest level.