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Cranking it up with the Shimano Zodias Series
| Date: |
6/2/16 |
| Tackle type: |
Rods |
| Manufacturer: |
Shimano |
| Reviewer: |
Team TT |
Introduction: A little over a year after the debut of the Zodias and
Shimano is now introducing new application specific cranking rods to the lineup.
Ahead of ICAST the company is adds three new rods to its existing 14-model
Zodias bass rod line-up with the new ZDS 170M-G, ZDS 176MH-G and the ZDS 175H.
The new Shimano Zodias Rods are
designed for cranking but share the same CI4+ reel seat as the original rods
Shimano’s Zodias
line of rods have become popular among anglers looking for a high quality rod at
the 200 dollar price point. Originally introduced alongside the G.Loomis E6X
rods these similarly priced rods offered anglers JDM style flair versus the
E6X’s more traditional American styling.
Shimano Zodias Cranking Rods Specifications |
| |
Length |
Power |
Action |
Line Wt. |
Reargrip |
Guides |
| ZDS170M-G |
7' |
M |
MF |
1/4-1 |
10.3" |
Alconite K (8+Tip) |
| ZDS175H |
7'5" |
H |
F |
7/16-1 1/2 |
10.8" |
Alconite K (8+Tip) |
| ZDS176MH-G |
7'6" |
MH |
MF |
3/8-1 1/2 |
12.7" |
Alconite K (8+Tip) |
While the
current Zodias series provide anglers with rods designed to perform as needed
with all types of lures – be it worms, jigs, crankbaits, spinnerbaits and
jerkbaits, the new Zodias rods are constructed for specific cranking
applications.
The new rods feature longer rear
handles for more casting leverage for today's popular big cranks
The 7-foot ZDS
170M-G and 7-foot-6 inch ZDS 176M-G crankbaits rods all feature longer reargrips
for long casting leverage, and include glass composite material within their
Hi-Power X blank for a softer action which is preferred for not only fishing
crankbaits but keeping fish pinned on treble hooks during the fight. A heavy
power, 7-foot-5-inch ZDS 175H is good for handling today’s giant cranks but can
also pull double duty with braided line applications, including launching frogs
into heavy grass.
The Hi-Power X construction
features a cross weave to eliminate blank twist
Though the new
Zodias cranking rods infuse glass into their construction (G models) they all
still feature Shimano’s Hi-Power X construction, which is designed to eliminate
blank twist for both better casting distance and accuracy. Hi-Power X is a
unique process to support the lightweight blanks, with carbon tape added in a
45-dgreee ‘X’ pattern on the outside of the blank. The tape process provides
what is called ‘torsional rigidity’ to keep the blank from twisting during the
cast, which is designed to improve casting distance and accuracy.
The Hi-Power X weave is visible
above the fore-grip and helps give the Zodias rods their signature look. Two of
the new rods also feature glass infused into the blank for a softer more
forgiving feel and medium fast action
These new Zodias
rods also include the CI4+ material reel seats and lightweight semi-micro guides
which add to the light overall balance of the rod and improve sensitivity. All
three of the new cranking rods will retail for $199.99 and are becoming
available at retailers and e-tailers this week. The Zodias line now covers
almost the complete spectrum of applications for bass anglers with these new
rods, and all they really need now to complete the range is a swimbait rod
capable of handling big baits from 1-3oz., wishful thinking? The way the Zodias
family is growing who knows what could come in the future.
Looking for the Shimano Zodias Cranking Rods? Try
Tackle Warehouse
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