The Daiwa Airity Pro pole has stirred considerable excitement in the angling community, touted as a formidable option for big fish enthusiasts. At a retail price of £3,799.99, serious anglers are keen to explore what this high-end pole offers.
"What the best pole is, will be a debate that will rage on in angling for as long as they are used," said Mark Sawyer, a seasoned angler and reviewer. This highlights the subjective nature of pole selection, as different anglers have varying preferences based on their unique fishing styles.
Central to the Airity Pro’s appeal is its construction, employing the well-regarded Tournament mandrel, the same used in Daiwa's top-tier models like the Air Z Pro. According to Sawyer, "If you’re already a Daiwa pole owner, you won’t be having any issues interchanging sections or top kits because everything is generic in terms of size."
However, the similarities to its predecessors end there. The Airity Pro has been completely re-engineered to meet the demands of modern angling. With an improved balance and quicker response, it excels at targeting big fish, whether in deep waters or close to the bank. Buyers can expect both power and durability, essential attributes for success in high catch-rate locations.
Included with the Airity Pro is a newly designed twin-sectioned 2.4m Professional Match Kit. Sawyer revealed that this kit comes with a reinforced area for side pullers, affirming its utility for silverfish fishing. Yet, he quickly notes, "but that’s where the silverfish concessions start and end!"
Anglers looking for versatility will appreciate the two available kit packages that feature Daiwa’s new Professional Top Kits. With options leaning towards either increased power or enhanced F1 fishing capabilities, users have the freedom to choose what best aligns with their fishing goals.
Notable enhancements include the reversible PHEX911 on the pole's end sections—12m, 13.6m, and 15.2m. Designed to reduce weight, it significantly aids in maintaining balance when maneuvering over rollers. Additionally, the pole boasts reversible mini extensions and a refined easy-slide taping system for smooth operation when in use.
Reflecting on his personal experiences, Sawyer shared, "I’m fortunate enough to have fished with the pole a couple of times, and can happily and truthfully report that it is everything and more that Daiwa claims it to be." He emphasized the Airity Pro’s balance improvements, which enhance comfort during longer sessions. "The pole has a much improved wall strength, and you can certainly feel it in the hands, catching carp up to double figures," he said. "The Airity Pro felt like it could handle fish twice the size and still have more to give."
A significant update within the Airity Pro is the introduction of new top kits, which were long awaited by anglers familiar with advancements from competing brands. Sawyer noted, "Even the most die-hard Daiwa fans were calling for more; it was time for Daiwa to pull rank. It was worth the wait as their new professional kits are fantastic."
The professional match kits are designed with a 4mm diameter tip, accommodating a range of elastics and enhancing general usability with their pre-bushed feature. "The Professional Commercial kits are built on the same, 2.4m, 2-piece spec kit with a higher grade carbon to make the pole stiffer at longer lengths when using heavier elastics," Sawyer explained.
Furthermore, Daiwa includes a robust 5.8mm power kit, which boasts a slower taper that enhances strength. This is particularly advantageous for anglers targeting large fish with hefty elastics. According to Sawyer, "it makes the kit a bit wider through the middle to vastly improve its strength."
Overall, the Daiwa Airity Pro positions itself as a top competitor in the high-end fishing pole market. Its advanced features, coupled with strong user testimonies, make it a worthy investment for dedicated anglers aiming for success in both competitions and casual outings alike. As technology evolves, this pole remains a testament to Daiwa's commitment to quality and performance, setting a high bar for future models.