Daiwa’s latest model for 21 is the X series in their expanding Emeraldas line up. The X series has been marketed as an entry level egi rod, which is only entry level in relation to the rest of the Daiwa range. It has some pretty impressive features for its $250 price point- X Braiding blank, Fuji guides and that classic black and turquoise aesthetic.
We tested the 8ft 3in model rated medium-light and stated to cast jigs 1.5-3.5 of which we tested 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5. It handled all three sizes very well on the cast. It’s a crispy, thin and sensitive blank that isn’t daunted by the 3.5 and feels pretty good with a 2.5. It’s a great rod for a boat or a pier where you don’t need to be casting too far or casting extra heavy jigs.
Retrieving jigs is as good as the casting, it’s crisp, sensitive and has an excellent load point so you feel in control. We were all very surprised at its performance for the price, it’s comparable with $400 rods we have tested in the past.
Its performance was just as good when fighting the squid, it folds over beautifully absorbing the pulse from larger squid with great balance and control and has ample power for what’s a relatively light and thin blank.
At this price and the fact its marketed as entry level I was expecting a softer less refined rod with a slow load point, but it greatly exceeded all my expectations and I consider it a superior rod to the more expensive Emeraldas V we tested last year. If you’re looking for an egi rod in that $250 price range, this is hard to beat.
Distributed By: Daiwa Australia
Web: daiwafishing.com.au
