On- the- bank test:

Daiwa’s N’ZON range has been hotly anticipated among feeder anglers. IYCF’s Tony Grigorjevs tests the new Method Feeder rod

Daiwa N’ZON 11ft feeder

DAIWA N’ZON S 11ft METHOD FEEDER RRP: £ 95

IF DAIWA wanted to remind everyone just how big a player the company is then they have gone and done it in style. There have been no half measures in the launch of the brand new N’ZON range, with an incredible 33 rods and a whole host of luggage, nets and reels unveiled for enthusiasts of feeder fishing.

To say we were spoilt for choice when offered the chance to run the rule over an item from this affordable yet high quality range, would be an understatement. After much thought, however, I opted for the 11ft N’ZON S Method Feeder rod.

The rods are divided into two categories

– S and Z – with the former not hitting your wallet quite as hard. But don’t let the lower price point fool you.

It’s length instantly suggested it was the ideal tool for commercial work so I pencilled in a trip to Packington Somers, West Midlands, to give it a whirl on Little Geary’s.

A 30g feeder was threaded on to the mainline and cast 25m to the far bank. An effortless lob was all that was required to accurately hit the mark and there’s no doubt it could have chucked a feeder double the distance, especially when you consider it can handle weights of up to 50g. In true winter style it took a little while to get a response but, when I finally connected with my first fish of the day, the rod showed what it was all about.

Clipped up, the fish made an initial angry surge which the softness of the rod helped absorb. That quality is absolutely key at this time of year, enabling you to safely fish lower diameter hook-lengths and gain more bites in the process. Once I’d gained a few turns on the culprit it lulled in open water and I felt in complete control. The rod clearly had enough power to steer it in the direction I wanted while the forgiving action meant hook- pulls were unlikely.

A big F1 was soon in the net and plenty of others followed in the coming hours, with each unable to come out on top against this impressive offering.

At £ 95, it is pitched at those that want good quality gear without having to spend an absolute fortune.

In usual Daiwa style, it has all the little touches that give it additional brownie points. The handle is a blend of cork and EVA, with the area where your forearm sits flattened off for added comfort and control. The rod rings have a clever design which minimises frustrating tangles and the reel seat is easily operated and blends in aesthetically.

Daiwa has always been a name associated with high quality and if you give this little beauty a chance you’ll soon see that trend remains in place.