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Last Updated on 11 September 2024 by James Bevan
What Does This Mean?
When rating the build quality of a rod, consideration has been given to the basic components.
These include the materials used in the blank, handle, reel seat and line guides.
We also take into account any additional features that make life on the bank easier for anglers.
What Does This Mean?
How a rod casts is one of the key fundamentals that determine a great rod from a mediocre one.
Easy, frictionless casting that provides accuracy is all rated in this category.
What Does This Mean?
The ability to play fish effectively is an important feature of any fishing rod.
Fishing is a sport, and as part of this sport, feeling the pulls, lunges and the fight of a fish is an exhilarating feeling that adds to the overall experience and enjoyment of angling.
As such, this is all taken into account when rating fishing rods.
What Does This Mean?
How much any fishing rod costs is always going to be a key factor in an angler’s final choice.
A rod can have all the bells and whistles under the sun but if you have to re-mortgage your house to purchase it then all of a sudden it isn’t the best choice for some.
When rating how much value for money a rod brings, consideration has been given to how the rod performs in all the other categories vs its price point.
The Daiwa Powermesh Barbel Rod is a very popular rod in the barbel angling community thanks to its quality build, premium materials and affordable price point
Here is a list of the features on the Powermesh Barbel Rod alongside an explanation of how it contributes to its overall performance:
| Feature | Explanation | Contribution To Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Lengths | Available in a 12ft length only | Limited on length options |
| Test Curves | Available in 1.75, 2.25 and 2.75lb test curves | A good range to suit differing needs |
| Weight | The 12ft model weighs approximately 235 grams | An average weight compared to its competitors |
| Construction | Made with HVF (High Volume Fibre) carbon blanks, providing strength and a progressive action | An above average build quality thanks to the HVF |
| Guides | Fitted with lightweight Seaguide stainless frame guides, ensuring durability and smooth line flow | Above average guides |
| Handle | Features a full cork handle with Armlock for optimal grip and comfort | The Armlock feature (Shaved piece for your forearm) makes it stand out from others without this |
| Reel Seat | Equipped with a DPS reel seat for secure and stable attachment of the reel | Good solid reel seat |
| Action | Designed with a forgiving, progressive, fish-playing action, making it ideal for both casting and playing fish effectively | A nice, smooth action |
| Casting Weight | Suitable for casting weights up to 120g (approximately 4.2oz) with the 2.25lb test curve and up to 6oz with the 2.75lb test curve version | Capable of casting heavy weights if needed especially with the 2.75lb test curve |
| Additional Features | The rod includes a 1K woven carbon butt section for added strength and durability, along with a hook keeper ring for convenience during use. | Good additional features |
The Powermesh Barbel Rod comes in three test curves – 1.75lb, 2.25lb, and 2.75lb – and I’ve had the chance to fish with all three.
At the core is Daiwa’s HVF (High Volume Fibre) carbon blank, and I’ve got to say, it delivers a nice balance of strength and sensitivity.
One of my favourite features is the V-joint system. I’ve found it really helps with casting distance, and it gives me that extra bit of control when I’m wrestling with a powerful barbel in strong currents.
In my experience, each test curve has its sweet spot. I love the 1.75lb for those smaller rivers where finesse is key. The 2.25lb has become my go-to for most situations – it’s versatile enough to handle a variety of conditions.
But when I’m heading to the Trent or Severn, especially when they’re running high, I always reach for the 2.75lb. It’s a beast with heavy feeders, and I’ve comfortably cast 6oz leads with it.
Daiwa hasn’t skimped on the components either. The SEAGUIDE stainless frame guides serve the rod well particluarly with casting distance and accuracy as they help reduce friction as line pays of the reel.
The reel seat on the Powermesh is solid and keeps my reel locked down tight at all times, which is crucial when you’re battling those powerful barbel.
And I’ve got to mention the cork handle – the armlock design sits really comfortably against my forearm when playing fish and is a popular feature amongst many coarse fisherman.
For anglers who mainly fish smaller rivers, I’d say the 1.75lb or 2.25lb versions would be the best choice. They’ve got enough power to handle most situations without sacrificing the sensitivity that is often missing on some inferior rods.
But if you’re like me and you find yourself on big rivers more often than not, that 2.75lb model is worth its weight in gold.
All in all, the Daiwa Powermesh Barbel Rod series has been a reliable companion on my barbel fishing adventures for a couple of years now.
It’s versatile enough to cover most scenarios I’ve encountered, and it’s never let me down when it counts. I would go as far to say as its one of the best ive used and as such sits proudly in our guide on the best barbel rods on the market today.
Here’s how the Daiwa Powermesh Barbel Rod compares to other, similar rods, I have reviewed:
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Korum Barbel Rod | 8 | from £49.99 |
| Daiwa Powermesh Barbel Rod | 8.1 | from £123.99 |
| Daiwa Infinity EVO Barbel Rod | 8.5 | from £349.99 |
| Korum All Rounder | 7.4 | from £49.99 |
| Drennan Specialist Twin Tip Duo | 7.9 | from £109.00 |
The Daiwa Powermesh Barbel Rod offers excellent value for money, scoring a solid 8 out of 10 in this category.
For its price point, you’re getting a well-built rod with high-quality components and versatile performance that punches above its weight class.
While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, it is still reasonably priced and in the ‘affordable bracket’.
For me, the balance of quality, durability, and performance makes it a smart investment for barbel anglers looking for a reliable tool without having to splash out on the serious cash you need for the top-end rods on the market.
In summary, the Daiwa Powermesh Barbel rod is a great bit of kit and I highly recommend it to anglers looking for quality performance without a premium price tag.
With its range of test curves, quality components, and thoughtful design, it caters to various fishing scenarios while offering good value for money.
While it may not be the ultimate high-end option, it strikes an excellent balance between performance and affordability, making it a worthy addition to any barbel angler’s arsenal.
Thanks for reading
Tight Lines!
If you would like to see more fishing tackle reviews as well as compare prices with various tackle shops then you can do so here.
Here is a list of resources we have used as part of putting this review together:
Daiwa’s Official Specs Page: – https://www.daiwasports.co.uk/product/powermesh-barbel
Angling Times Review: – https://www.anglingtimes.co.uk/tackle-reviews/rods/daiwa-powermesh-b2-2-25lb-test-curve-rod-and-daiwa-emcast-25a-reel-on-test/
Hi, I’m James
And I have to make a confession: I am addicted to fishing and have been for over 30 years!
As part of my therapy, I’ve started to write about all things angling.
Learn more about me and my company on the about page.
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