Extra Sensory Perception, or ESP, have become synonymous with Terry Hearn and his big carp exploits. Having initially specialised in hook design and patterns ESP now produce a large array of terminal tackle, rods and clothing. Every product in the ESP range is made to exact specifications, nothing is brought in. In-house CAD engineers work in conjunction with polymer experts at ESP’s plastics factory, all rods are then flex tested in Oxford before arriving on the shelves of tackle shops up and down the country – its not hard to see why ESP have become one of the most respected brands in fishing.
The ESP 12ft 3.0lb and 12ft 3.25lb Onyx Rods are the natural replacement for ESP’s Sniper range, finished with a typically understated design featuring; anodised collars and butt cap, a subtle Onyx decal and a small, coloured ESP logo on the moulded line clip whipping. All of which complement the ‘old school’ unground carbon finish.
The slim blank with 50mm long-distance ringing is lined with SiC guides, 50mm in diameter nearest the butt cap, decreasing to just 16mm at the rod tip, buying you a few extra metres when casting. The SiC, or silicon carbide guides themselves are twelve times harder and one-third lighter than stainless steel guides, generating less heat and lower friction allowing you to cast greater distances with improved accuracy. Both models in the range feature a high-quality DPS reel seat and an ergonomically designed shrink rubber handle with a flared casting grip for added comfort during casting.
Both rods in the range have a relatively progressive action, however, the 12ft 3lb test curve variant is slightly more supple and has a softer tip, protecting you from hook pulls. Despite this, the 3lb variant will cast a 2.5 oz lead well in excess of 100 metres. The 12ft 3.25lb rod is stronger and slightly stiffer, to optimise the casting potential of this rod it should be paired with a 3-4 oz lead to ensure you can punch your bait to the horizon.
Immerse yourself in the elite world of angling with the ESP 12ft Onyx Carp Rod, the newest addition to the ESP line-up. ESP, with its rich heritage, collaboration with angling legend Terry Hearn, and dedication to meticulous craftsmanship, has solidified its position as one of the most esteemed brands in the angling community.
Engineered as a seamless successor to ESP's popular Sniper range, the 12ft Onyx Rod comes in two variants: the 3.0lb and 3.25lb. Each boasts a design of understated sophistication, with a fine 'old school' unground carbon finish that exudes class and durability. The subtle Onyx decal, anodised collars and butt cap, alongside a tastefully coloured ESP logo on the moulded line clip whipping, all contribute to its premium aesthetic.
The defining feature of the ESP 12ft Onyx Carp Rod is its high modulus carbon blank. Its light, well-balanced, and responsive nature allows anglers to have a heightened sense of contact with the fish. The long-range ringing pattern, starting with a 50mm butt guide to a 16mm tip, is fitted with SiC guides – a material that is twelve times harder and significantly lighter than stainless steel. This innovative choice of material reduces heat and friction, facilitating longer, more precise casts.
Additionally, the ESP 12ft Onyx Carp Rod is equipped with a DPS reel seat, providing a secure and sturdy mount for your reel. The rod also features a shrink rubber handle with a flared casting grip. The ergonomic design of this grip ensures comfort and reduces fatigue, making it a pleasure to handle even during long casting sessions.
Coming to the performance, the two variants offer slightly different actions. The 12ft 3.0lb model has a slightly more supple nature with a softer tip, ideal for protecting against hook pulls. This variant can comfortably cast a 2.5 oz lead well beyond the 100-metre mark, providing ample distance for most fishing scenarios. For those seeking a little more power, the 12ft 3.25lb model boasts a stronger, stiffer action. To maximise the casting range with this model, a 3-4 oz lead is recommended.