Saltwater Jigging / Topwater Rods

2015 sees this new topwater rod and a new look for the highly successful back bone range. They are now lighter, stronger, more powerful aswell as cosmetically appealing. The 2014 Shimano Backbone-Elite range includes 28 rods that continue Shimano's dedication to producing superb quality rods at genuinely reasonable prices.
The Shimano Backbone-Elite range, are built on exceptionally high quality composite blanks. All rods are heavy duty and have moderate and fast actions, they are finished with top quality Shimano Soft Touch reel seals, guides and bindings. The comprehensive Shimano Backbone-Elite series covers a diverse range of line classes and fishing styles, from freshwater, to inshore and heavy saltwater use. This rod at 8ft2 is ideal for targeting those XOS kingis using stick baits and poppers with braid line weights up to 80lb.

Rod Specs

Pieces: 2
Line Wt. (kg): 50-80LB
Blank Type: 24/30 Ton Graphite
Grip Assembly: Eva
Length: 8ft2
Guide Type: Ceramic
Action: Medium Fast:
Gimbal type: Rubber Gimbal
Reel Seat: Shimano soft touch

The Shimano Grappler Type J S566 Spin Jig Rod is sure to help you tackle your most powerful ocean foes. Representing the next evolution of this highly popular offshore jigging series. It features both Spiral X and Hi-Power X blank construction, and has been tested in the harshest of offshore environments around the world. Spiral X and Hi-Power X increase the strength to twisting and reduces power loss during jerking and fighting. Rod action is versatile to adapt to different jigging rhythms. Enjoy a better fishing experience with the Shimano Grappler Type J S566 Spin Jig Rod's power, response and control.

Spiral X
Spiral X construction consists of three layers: a blank made of vertical fibres, an inner layer and an outer layer, both comprising of carbon tape that tightly winds the blank diagonally in opposite directions. By using this carbon tape in place of a conventional horizontal fibre sheet, Spiral X achieves enhanced torsional rigidity without adding extra weight. This in turn facilitates instant power transmission for precise casting and for fighting fish. Through its exclusive lightweight structure, Shimano's Spiral X construction enhances your "catching power".

Hi-Power X
In Hi-Power X construction, the blank's outermost layer is diagonally wrapped with carbon tape, which forms an array of X shapes. The width of the tape, its winding angle and the part of the rod being wrapped are fine-tuned according to the target fish species. The flexibility allows Shimano to adjust these wraps during construction for precise actions, enhanced overall strength and added twist resistance. In short, Hi-Power X construction delivers sharp and crisp rod control.

Rod Features:

• Hi-Power
• Spiral X
• Fuji Reel Seat
• Tapered front grips
• Fuji Ocean Guides

Rod Specifications:

• Code: 19GRPTJS566
• Length:1.68m or 5'6"
• Sections: 2
• Longest Section 112cm
• Butt Join
• Line Weight: PE 6
• Lure Weight: 300g
• Rod Weight: 245g
• Guides: Fuji K

The Spartan rod series delivers a range of technique specific actions that outcast, outperform and outclass all others. With increased torsional stiffness Spartan rods are able to resist blank twist during casting & jigging applications, ensuring that every action is transmitted efficiently through the blank to prevent energy loss. This results in a more responsive action with increased feedback, while providing maximum comfort and control to the angler. Spartan rods feature HVF Nanoplus blanks, 3DX carbon to increase lifting power and V-Joint to increase joint strength. Equipped with Fuji stainless steel SiC guides, Fuji reel seats, and high-density EVA grips.

• Model - Spartan S54-6/8
• Type - Spin
• Action - Ex Heavy
• Taper - Regular
• Rating - 200-450g
• Length - 163cm
• Line - PE 6/8
• Sections - 1

These JDM jigging rods are popular with jig fishing devotees. All are of single-piece construction and rated for use with PE 2.5-PE 5 braid. These high carbon blanks are incredibly light, yet strong, which is delivered by a Spiral X and High Power inner and outer weave. They come fitted with Fuji K series SiC guides on stainless frames, Shimano reel seats on the spin rods and Fujis for the overheads, and custom-shaped split EVA grips.

Specs - 

• Pieces - 1
• Line Weight - Max PE6
• Lure Weight - Max 300g
• Guide Type - Fuji
• Reel Seat - Fuji

This jigging rod is durable and lightweight setup designed to handle heavy use, such as charter fishing or for the avid angler.

Shimano Abyss SW Spin Jigging Rod Features:

Lightweight yet very strong

Completes MSL tests of well over specified line ratings at 45 and 60 degrees

Tough enough to handle the rigours of heavy use

Shimano T45 graphite blanks

Fuji SiC/SiN II guides

Aftco/Fuji reels seats

Pieces: 1

Length: 5ft 3in

Rating: PE5

The Tournament Concept rods, designed for Kiwi anglers by the team at Composite Developments, are manufactured using a patented process with an outer layer of longitudinal fibres around the rod blank to significantly increase strength and power in the tip section. This offers lifting power and strength up to four times conventional graphite rods. There is a rod in the range for almost every method and style of fishing, they are durable, powerful and can by fished by all anglers with confidence.

Rod Features:

Patented Unidirectional Fibre Reinforcement technology

Built tough enough to fight big fish and last you many seasons

Significantly increased strength and power in the tip section

Lifting power and strength up to four times conventional graphite rods

Rod Specifications:

Type: Spin

Pieces: 1

Length: 5ft 3in

Rating: 200-350g

Jig Star Phantom PE 4-8 O/H Jig Rod

- O/H Acid Wrap

- 5'7" 

- 150g to 500g Jigs

It's manufactured using a patented process with an outer layer of longitudinal fibres around the rod blank to significantly increase strength and power in the tip section. This offers lifting power and strength up to four times conventional graphite rods. The Okuma Tournament Concept Rod is durable, powerful and can be fished by all anglers with confidence. Features - Patented Unidirectional Fibre Reinforcement technology Built tough enough to fight big fish and last you many seasons Significantly increased strength and power in the tip section Lifting power and strength up to four times conventional graphite rods.

Specifications:

Type: Spinning

Pieces: 2

Length: 8ft 6in

Rating: PE6 8-12kg

Lure rating: 100g

The Tournament Concept series of rods are built using Okuma’s patented Unidirectional Fibre Reinforcement technology. These rods, designed for Kiwi anglers by the team at Composite Developments, are manufactured using a patented process with an outer layer of longitudinal fibres around the rod blank to significantly increase strength and power in the tip section. This offers lifting power and strength up to four times conventional graphite rods. The Topwater rods in the range are lightweight and powerful with a parabolic action to exert maximum pressure on the fish, while the softer tips are ideal for swimming stick baits in any conditions. Designed specifically for New Zealand conditions and available in a range of lengths and weights, the Tournament Concept jig rods are a high performance option that represents extraordinary value for money.

• Toughest graphite rods on the market

• Patented Unidirectional Fibre Reinforcement technology

• Lightweight, powerful and durable graphite blanks

• Available in a range of length and weight options

• Parabolic action

• Softer tip specifically for stick baiting

• Designed by kiwi fishermen for New Zealand fisheries

Specifications:

• Pieces: 2PC
• Length: 7'9
• Cast Weight: 100-190G
• Rating: PE8
• Type: Top Water Rod

The new Okuma Nano Matrix Plus Light Trout Spinning Rod features the latest nano materials (resin) making it extra sensitive to feel every little thing that touches your bait under the water.

Rod Features:

• Nano resin blank
• Alps and Fuji hardware
• Length: 5ft
• Line weight: PE 3-6
• Casting weight: 200-350G
• Pieces: 1

The Okuma Nano Matrix Plus Spinning Boat Rod features the latest nano materials (resin) making it extra sensitive to feel every little thing that touches your bait under the water.

Okuma Nano Matrix Plus Spinning Boat Rod Features:

• Nano resin blank
• Alps and Fuji hardware
• Length: 7ft 9"
• Lure weight: 45-150g
• PE 4-6
• Topwater Rod
• Pieces: 3

The Jig Star Phantom Acid Wrap Jigging Rod features great butt power and a light, fast tip. The requirements for the Phantom was to develop an exceptional rod for jigging for Dogtooth Tuna as well as a rod to double down as an outstanding live or dead bait rod for many species.

The tip not only works lighter jigs but transmits those pre-bite panic vibrations from live baits early enough to prepare the angler for the impending chaos. The longer rod length allows easier manoeuvring around duckboards or outboard obstacles.

The blank uses High Performance Graphite from Toray of Japan with advanced Nano technology. The Phantom rod features JigStar's standard specifications including Fuji PSS/DPS Reel Seats with the latest Fuji K Frame SIC Guides and custom componentry. The Overhead model also features the innovative "ACID" or "SPIRAL" design.

Rod Features:

• High performance Toray Nano Carbon blank
• Fuji PSS reel seat
• Fuji SIC guides
• Overhead acid wrap

Rod Specifications:

• Length: 5ft 7in
• Lure weight: 150-500g
• Line weight: PE4-8
• Pieces: 1
• Action: Medium Heavy

The Jig Star Twisted Sister Overhead Jigging Rod is an innovative ACID design which draws the inherent advantages of both overhead and spinning rods. This design alleviates damaging blank twist associated with overhead rods and allows the blank to develop its maximum power potential and design characteristics. This rod has a remarkable power and resilience as a result of its carefully tapered NANO blank with a perfect acid guide flow. Bend the Twisted Sista to its' max and all will become evident.

This rod uses Fuji PSS, PLS palming reel seats with Silicon Carbide 'K' guides and gunsmoke frames. The rod is part Pearl and part natural inchburledinch graphite finish with an exclusive Silver/White sleeve between the rear grips and reel seat extender. A feature of all Jig Star rods is the lack of underbinding only between the guide feet. This reduces 'dead spots' caused by excessive binding along the blank freeing the blank to extoll all its characteristic virtues and power.

Rod Features:

• Innovative ACID model with NANO materials
• Twisted guides draws the advantage of both overhead and spinning rods
• Remarkable power and resilience
• Made with highest quality Toray carbon
• Fast parabolic curve
• Lightweight yet very powerful
• Fuji PSS, PLS palming reel seats
• Silicone Carbide K guides and gunsmoke frames
• Custom cosmetics, Pearl and Natural finish
• Rubber gimbal butt

Rod Specifications:

• Length: 5ft
• PE Rating: PE 4-8
• Jig range: 300-600g
• Pieces: 1

Features:

• Designed with the latest graphite/unidirectional composites and helical wind technology
• Superb action and weight
• Length: 6ft 6in
• Pieces: 2
• Rating: 10kg
• ALPS guides
• ALPS comfort trigger grips
• ALPS aluminium reel seat
• ALPS aluminium gimbal

The Spartan rod series delivers a range of technique specific actions that outcast, outperform and outclass all others. With increased torsional stiffness Spartan rods are able to resist blank twist during casting & jigging applications, ensuring that every action is transmitted efficiently through the blank to prevent energy loss. This results in a more responsive action with increased feedback, while providing maximum comfort and control to the angler. Spartan rods feature HVF Nanoplus blanks, 3DX carbon to increase lifting power and V-Joint to increase joint strength. Equipped with Fuji stainless steel SiC guides, Fuji reel seats, and high-density EVA grips.

• Model - Spartan B54-6/8
• Type - Overhead
• Action - Ex Heavy
• Taper - Regular
• Rating - 200-450g
• Length - 163cm
• Line - PE 6/8
• Sections - 1

The Spartan rod series delivers a range of technique specific actions that outcast, outperform and outclass all others. With increased torsional stiffness Spartan rods are able to resist blank twist during casting & jigging applications, ensuring that every action is transmitted efficiently through the blank to prevent energy loss. This results in a more responsive action with increased feedback, while providing maximum comfort and control to the angler. Spartan rods feature HVF Nanoplus blanks, 3DX carbon to increase lifting power and V-Joint to increase joint strength. Equipped with Fuji stainless steel SiC guides, Fuji reel seats, and high-density EVA grips.

• Model - Spartan B55-4/6
• Type - Overhead
• Action - Heavy
• Taper - Regular
• Rating - 150-350g
• Length - 165cm
• Line - PE 4/6
• Sections - 1

The Shimano Ocea Plugger Full Throttle S83H Spinning Rod is engineered to cast further, and designed for accurately casting topwater lures!

Featuring the latest Spiral X and High Power X combined with Shimano's newly designed blanks - you get an ultra light and tough rod that's designed to last.

A premium quality topwater rod, endorsed personally by the staff here at Fish City in Hamilton...

Features:

• Engineered to cast further
• ANOALLOY Technology
• Titanium Frame RV Guide (Butt part)
• Fuji DPS seat/ Lock nut
• Double Wrapping
• Spiral X and High Power X

Specifications:

• Model number: S83H
• Pieces: 2
• PE rating: PE8
• Lure Weight: 60-150
• Blank Type: SPIRAL X and HIGH POWER X CARBON
• Carbon percentage: 92.7%
• Grip Assembly: Custom EVA
• Length: 2.52m / 8ft 3in
• Guide Type: FUJI SIC
• Gimbal Type: EVA
• Reel Seat: FUJI

Any product carrying the Saltist name invokes a level of trust and dependability few others can match. Now a new generation of Saltist Hyper is here. 

Leveraging all of Daiwa’s advancements in rod technology, 20 Saltist Hyper introduces X45 Cobrashield technology to masses of offshore anglers who’ve seen what it can do on rod ranges like Spartan before it.

20 Saltist Hyper rods feel crisper and more responsive than their predecessors, and outcast and outperform them across all levels.

A newly developed grip section catches the eye thanks to the unique spiral foregrip which provides a firm grasp even when wet. As always, quality Fuji components outfit the 20 Saltist Hyper series from the newly released Corrosion Control (CC) Fuji ‘O’ ring guides and Fuji branded reel seats and butt caps.

X45 COBRA SHIELD

An evolution of X45, Cobra Shield features a Bias Wrap carbon weave on the exterior of blank to eliminate twist and help the blank maintain its round profile. The result is a new level of rod strength, power, and weightlessness.

V JOINT

Bias construction within the ferrule allows it to flex with the rod, eliminating the weak, unbending spot caused by ordinary ferrules. The result of this revolutionary technology is a multi-piece blank that matches the performance of one-piece blanks in flex, power and responsiveness.

HVF WHITE

HVF (High Volume Fibre) combines precise resin control with unidirectional graphite fibre to produce a blank with maximum graphite density, making it incredibly sensitive, light and responsive.

SPECS:

Type: Overhead

Style: Jigging

Sections: 1

Length: 5’3” / 161cm

Rec. Lure: 200g

Rec. Line: PE#: 3-4