LOAD, LOCK, LAUNCH!
Century’s latest rod on test.
CENTURY TIP TORNADO GRAPHEX SPORT PRICE: £595
Century’s stable of Tip Tornado blanks has certainly raised a few eyebrows among shore anglers. Without question, it has attracted an army of loyal admirers and followers for many years, and now the Graphex models are reaching out even further.
My first encounter with the Graphex blanks came when I got my hands on the TT Super Match (issue 564). The lightweight outfit was an absolute joy to use, and after a few minor tweaks in my casting style I had mastered it admirably.
A few months down the line and my Facebook Messenger, together with texts from friends, had virtually gone into meltdown. “If you like the Super Match, you’ll love the Sport,” was the general wave of communication.
The truth was, I did indeed adore the Graphex TTSM, but I couldn’t ignore the hype on social media concerning its big brother. It seemed the majority of anglers I was chatting with online were praising the Graphex TTS, especially those based in the North East. So, after a brief spell of research, I reckoned the Graphex Tip Tornado Sport was worth pursuing further.
IMPECCABLE
It will be no surprise to learn that the finished blank and build is impeccable, showing off Fuji Titanium K guides. It’s a two-piece, equal section rod, measures up at 13ft 11in when assembled, and boasts a casting ratio of 4-8oz. Although it’s incredibly slim, the butt diameter is slightly larger than the TTSM at 0.87in.
A padded Century rod bag is also provided, helping to prevent those annoying knocks and scrapes during transit.
I’ve always preferred a multiplier reel and can’t quite grasp the fixed-spool phenomenon that’s seemingly swept shore anglers off their feet, especially if it’s located in the low position of a rod. I chose to use my Penn 525 Mag3 reel for my maiden encounter with the Graphex Sport.
After a few gentle lobs to get an initial feel of the blank, it was fairly easy to work out that this outfit is powerful.
Although it’s not a poker, and there is flexibility in the butt section, the
carbon tip is a real giveaway to its speed…it’s lightning quick!
EFFoRTlESS
This rod simply loves a speedy windup and an even harder hit. So much so, off-the-ground casting feels effortless, too. Of course, it isn’t effortless, and there is an awful lot of power to get to grips with, but because it’s so light, it means you can really concentrate on applying the power. I’ve used rods in the past that were so powerful and heavy they almost lifted me off my feet. The Tip Tornado Graphex Sport won’t do that to you, but be aware of that tip section whipping through – it really is super-fast!
On the loading-up process, I preferred a longer-than-normal drop. This allowed me to really step on the power and locate the sweet spot as the blank begins to lock. Once I was in position to release the sinker, the whole rod flies through to a pacey launch stage. However, depending on your casting style, you may see it differently to me, but I reckon the same fast process of load, lock and launch will be very much similar.
Fishing-wise, this rod will certainly cover harsh territory. Rough venues that include rocks and kelp will be no problem at all, and the same applies to marks that have sticky clay seabeds. It’s a perfect tool for extracting cod, rays, huss and smoothhounds, therefore bite detection will generally be in the form of hard pulls and drop-backs.
If you relish the thought of seeing a rod tip slam around from thin dabs and pin whiting at range, then this isn’t for you. However, if you thrive on delivering large baits in search of bigger species, at range, the Century Tip Tornado Graphex Sport should most definitely be on your radar.