Random questions from an old codger

Forgive me if these seems silly - I've decided (I think) upon the Penn Powerstix Pro Surf 13' fs version but...

I've read that the rod has been redesigned and altogether improved. How do I ensure that I buy the new version, and not the older one? Cheapest I can find it is £79.99.

I was going to team it with the Penn Surfmaster - I liked the lightness of the reel but was concerned with the anti reverse. It seemed really "plasticky" and I got the impression it would drop off given any sort of rough rock treatment. The drag system seemed a little flimsy too. I know that this may be a necessary evil to keep the weight down but has anyone any views on this?

To be honest, I'm open to suggestion for any rod / reel combo around the £80 - £150 range. I primarily fish from rocks but want to progress to beach work this autumn/winter. I've never cast a lead over 2 oz!!! I really want a light, low diameter rod (therefore carbon) as being an aul lad mid forty I'm suffering from tennis elbow x2!!

I may as well kick the arse out of it and ask for suggestions for a decent lightweight tri pod whilst I'm at it lol

Finally - what do you consider to be the best tackle shop within 40 miles of Belfast?

Cheers guys

the rod is defo a good choice very popular although if i were you i would go for the powerstix pro 15ft version my mate has 1 and its really impressive for the money... its long light and nice to fish with and casts exceptionally well with 4/5oz leads without much effort....

as for the reel im not a fixed spool user but just going by what i have read from this site i would steer clear of the penn surfmaster as they have alot of problems and maybe look at one of the shimano range something like an aerlex which is fairly cheap and cheerful

the rod is defo a good choice very popular although if i were you i would go for the powerstix pro 15ft version my mate has 1 and its really impressive for the money... its long light and nice to fish with and casts exceptionally well with 4/5oz leads without much effort....

as for the reel im not a fixed spool user but just going by what i have read from this site i would steer clear of the penn surfmaster as they have alot of problems and maybe look at one of the shimano range something like an aerlex which is fairly cheap and cheerful

Thanks for that - I was looking at the 15' but have never used a rod over 12'. Panicking that I'd buy the longer rod, have a cast on the beach and think "I don't like this......."

Honestly, I never had these problems getting pike/coarse gear but I guess thats because I was more competent and confident in my own knowledge!

I've tried a few shops but, with the notable exception of Belfast Angling on Shankill Road, the staff have been disinterested and lacking knowledge.

If I want to be ignored and belittled, I'll stay at home with my beloved and get treated like that for free!!

three questions with one answer ian golds,tripod,rod,and reel 13 or 14 foot is long enough for most people i find anything over that too long if its windy,spend a little more and you will have the set of gear to last you for years,the shimano reels are ok also to be honest your budget will restrict your choice for rod and reel but if thats all you can afford you should still get a half decent set up hiro do some nice budget long rods for lighter lines and weights

cant help you on the tackle end of things,but Belfast Angling is your best bet by far,friendly and good prices too,plus
Harry snr.and jnr. are both handy anglers,so they can "walk the walk".there is another shop in Belfast,James Braddells,I have'nt dealt with them,so I cant comment ,far as I know they are more into the game end of things.,

Hi Mate.

I use the power stix pro surf 13ft and love it as a second rod. Lovely whip off it when casting. I also recently purchased an Ian Gold rod (International match) as recommended above by Roger. Brilliant rod. Very sturdy and low diameter. Designed for great casting and fishing. All the Ian Gold rods are reviewed on http://www.planetseafishing.com/reviews/read/tested-ian-golds-beach-rods/ and if ya like get onto Paul Mason on this site as he has a full stock of them and is a gem of a bloke to deal with.

I also have a shimano aerlex 7000 (as mentioned by sea serpant) on this which I adore but am upgrading soon to maybe an Ultegra 5500. I havnt used the Ian Gold reels yet but am told they are good.

All in all not a massively expensive setup but a good one for just a little extra few bob.

.

Hi Mate.

I use the power stix pro surf 13ft and love it as a second rod. Lovely whip off it when casting. I also recently purchased an Ian Gold rod (International match) as recommended above by Roger. Brilliant rod. Very sturdy and low diameter. Designed for great casting and fishing. All the Ian Gold rods are reviewed on http://www.planetseafishing.com/reviews/read/tested-ian-golds-beach-rods/ and if ya like get onto Paul Mason on this site as he has a full stock of them and is a gem of a bloke to deal with.

I also have a shimano aerlex 7000 (as mentioned by sea serpant) on this which I adore but am upgrading soon to maybe an Ultegra 5500. I havnt used the Ian Gold reels yet but am told they are good.

All in all not a massively expensive setup but a good one for just a little extra few bob.

.

Thanks man - still like the powerstix 13' - just having difficulty finding a fs reel that "feels" right on it!

i recently purchased the powerstix 15ft version. given how im only 5ft8 i found it a bit combersome at the start but soon got used to it.

i also got a mitchell avosurf fixed spool reel to go with and they seem to work quite well together. just the right size and nicely balanced on the rod.

i recently purchased the powerstix 15ft version. given how im only 5ft8 i found it a bit combersome at the start but soon got used to it.

i also got a mitchell avosurf fixed spool reel to go with and they seem to work quite well together. just the right size and nicely balanced on the rod.

Thanks for that - will check that out