Tackle Tuesday… Greys Prodigy TXL 1.25lb Specimen Rod

This entry was posted on 14th October, 2014

Greys Prodigy TXL Specimen Rod Review

I’ve used Prodigy TX specimen rods for years for a range of species and always liked them. So, when the TXL was announced I really wanted to give them a go.

The rod is available in four models – an 11ft 1lb test curve and three 12ft versions with test curves of 1.25lb, 1.5lb and 1.75lb – but for my Perch and Chub river wrangling I opted for the 1.25lb version. Out of the bag and aesthetically it’s a good-looking rod. Not too different from the previous range, it’s low-key graphics, slim blanks and full cork handle give the air of a quality rod. In the hand the two piece construction is light (256g) and well balanced once a reel in place – as you would expect from a rod with an £89.99 price tag.

Out on the river and tackled up the first thing you notice about the rod is that it’s a fairly stiff rod for the test curve. Not a bad thing and it certainly casts well with a lot of control. Getting to grips with the TXL and having experience of its predecessor, the improvements in build quality and general finish of the rod become evident – but it’s when the TXL is in action that it begins to shine. Striking into what would turn out to be a Chub, the rod curves over, bracing against the fish and putting me in control straightaway. As it makes its way out in to the main flow and livens up, the rod keeps applying the pressure, with a progressive action giving as good as it gets to halt the charge of the fish.

Even in a slightly flooded river with an energetic fish in full manic mode the Prodigy never felt under gunned – one thing I was worried about when I saw the conditions of the river. It did, in fact, impress in what was probably out of its comfort zone, and all at a fairly competitive price too. The Spec - Progressive action - 2 section design - High modulus carbon - Full SIC line guides - Secure screw locking reel seat - Quality cork handle - Folding hook keeper ring/laser etched butt cap

Buy The Greys Prodigy TXL Specimen Rods