Denali's Kovert Lite KW764MP Swim Jig Stick
(continued)
Design & Ergonomics: Honestly, the only area I can find to criticize this rod is in the ergonomics. On paper, the eleven inch (11") handle (measured from butt end to back of reel seat) should be plenty, but for some reason, it felt short to me on two handed casts. This is likely due to the preponderance of big bait fishing I've been doing of late where most of the sticks have, at minimum, fourteen inch (14") handles - and usually more. However the 11" handle on the 7'-6" KW764MP also means the stick is a bit tip heavy.
Grip material at the front is similar to that found on golf clubs
The butt end is still EVA
That aspect makes the stick feel heavier than its relatively svelte five ounces (5oz). The KW764MP's overall weight is very good for a factory rod of its length - especially considering the grip material. Denali doesn't reference the manufacturer who provides a similar grip material to the majority of golf clubs manufacturers, so I'm assuming they have found a non-branded source. While comfortable to hold in all manner of conditions (hot, cold, dry, wet, etc.) and durable, easy to clean, for some reason, this rubberized compound is not something I care for on my fishing rods. The compound feels too dense to me leading me to believe it dampens sensitivity. Note, this is not something I've tested, so it's just one of those preference things.
Lab Results for Denali Kovert Lite KW764MP Casting Rod
|
Model |
Avg RoD |
Taper |
Measured Weight (oz) |
Balance Point (inches) |
Balancing Torque (ftlbs) |
| Denali Kovert Lite KW764MP Casting Rod
|
1.88 |
Moderate |
5 |
12 |
0.32 |
| TSFO >100 Rod Avg |
1.76 |
-- |
4.6 |
|
|
| Medium Pwr Avg |
2.19 |
-- |
4.2 |
7.9 |
|
Closed loop hook keeper
Price & Applications: The KW764MP retails for $169.99. This is probably one of the most contested price points for a fishing rod. It will appeal to those who want something relatively affordable, but with better components than what you find in a more budget friendly, ~$100 stick. Application wise, though labeled as a rod for swim jigs, really, with its taper, the KW765MP is suitable for any manner of moving bait from square bill cranks to deep divers. In fact, after fishing this stick, I might argue it makes a better stick for square bills like Rapala's BX Big Brat.
The KW764MP retails for $169.99
Ratings:
Denali Kovert Lite KW764MP Casting Rod
Ratings
(?/10) |
| Construction/Quality |
A simple, no-nonsense build |
8 |
| Performance |
Good casting performance coupled with power and leverage |
8 |
| Price |
All things considered, priced right |
7.5 |
| Features |
Split reel seat, good taper for moving baits, guides that performed well |
7.5 |
| Design
(Ergonomics) |
A bit tip heavy, but overall weight is good |
7 |
| Application |
Labeled as a swim jig stick, the KW764MP is a good stick for moving baits in general |
8 |
Total
Score |
7.67 |
Ratings
Key: 1 =
terrible
: 2 =
poor : 3
=
lacking
: 4 =
sub par
: 5 =
mediocre
: 6 =
fair : 7
= good :
8 =
great :
9 =
excellent
: 10 =
unbelievable!
For More
Details
of the
updated
rating
system
visit
our explanation
here |
Pluses and Minuses:
Plus |
Minus |
|
+ Excellent taper for moving baits |
- A bit tip heavy |
|
+ Good length providing power and leverage |
|
|
+ Overall weight is good for a 7'-6" stick |
|
|
+ Connection knot sails through the smallish guides just fine |
|
Looking for a moving bait stick? The KW764MP is a good choice
Conclusion: I enjoyed catching up with Denali's Kovert Lite series and pleased to discover the series, for the most part, carries with it the same spirit and feel as the K863JW I fished back in 2017. Consistency is important but not always the case when a manufacturer updates a product line. The KW764MP, reviewed here, not only carries forward the Kovert Lite's spirit, but on its own, is a very good choice in a moving bait stick with good casting performance and the power and leverage to work your catch back to your position.
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