Gear Review: Daiwa Steez AGS Rods

WHAT IS IT?

Daiwa Steez AGS Rods

WHAT SETS IT APART?

Daiwa upgraded and redesigned its flagship rod line with an array of features intended to bolster performance and reliability. The new Steez AGS rods are made of SVF COMPILE X with Nanoplus technology, which blends a higher volume of fiber and less resin for a lighter blank boasting greater strength and sensitivity than standard blanks. Also, a 45-degree construction known as X45 maximizes strength, sensitivity and hook-setting power by preventing blank twist.

HOW DO I USE IT?

This rod series’ namesake component, the Air Guide System (AGS), comprises guides that are said to be 40% lighter than equivalent size titanium guides. The solid carbon fiber frames minimize weight, improve casting distance and ensure fast rod speed, greater sensitivity, reduced vibration and less fatigue. Made with Air Sensor reel seats for weight reduction and comfort, the Steez AGS line includes 10 casting models (6-foot, 9-inch medium to 7-foot, 11-inch extra-heavy) and three spinning models (7-foot, 1-inch medium-light to 7-foot, 6-inch medium-medium-light).

HOW MUCH?

Starting at $579.99

MORE INFORMATION:

Daiwa.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

Daiwa’s AGS guides are going to help with casting speed, distance and accuracy, as this system causes rod vibration to rapidly decrease and the rod tip to converge faster than with standard guides. Optimal sensitivity should be immediately recognizable because the carbon guide frames’ rigidity is much higher than that of metal guides, which absorb much of the vibration from working a bait and a fish strike. Nice touches: Each Steez AGS rod includes Daiwa’s fully adjustable Daiwa Hook Keeper and includes a protective rod sock.