The Essence of Fishing

Introduction: I’ve long wanted to sample the Hookset-Global ProSpin series of rods and when they introduced a GLX model to this lineup that was all needed to pull the trigger. Question was could this new ProSpin GLX rod really deliver that rare combination of a sensitive, light action tip, with that strong, unrelenting backbone needed to overpower hard fighting fish? Sit back as I take you on a journey with the ProSpin GLX from Hookset-Global. Leveraging the success of their popular AllSpin series rods, this ProSpin GLX stick features the lightweight Hookset-Global guides. These guides are coveted not for their appearance, but for their apparent lighter weight. The remainder of the rod features Hookset’s conventional if not conservative look including a full cork fore and rear grip and Hookset-Global reel seat.

Real World Test: I paired this rod with both my Okuma Epixor 30 and my Shimano Stradic 4000. Each of these two reels have a very different feel characteristics primarily to their respective weights, yet each compliment the rod very well. This speaks to the rod’s overall good balance before even mounting a reel in its reel seat.

• Casting: While I did not make any big “heave it as far as I can” casts, I was able to pick, choose, and hit my targets. This was especially true using this rod in and around the docks of Sea Of Galilee, Israel. The guides handled both copolymer (PowerPro Spectra) and fluorocarbon (Sufix XL) lines well although there was a noticeable noise factor associated with casting the stiffer fluorocarbon lines.
• Sensitivity: One area where Hookset-Global often excels is in the sensitivity department. That “light and crisp” feel you get with this rod when you pull it out of the rod rack translates very well on the water to a responsive and sensitive product. The minimalist appearance of the guides is carried throughout the length of the rod with its matte finished blank and modest rod wraps. This all helps with the rod’s weight and ability to transmit even the subtlest of hits into your hands. 
• Power: Where this rod truly shines is the second you whip your wrist back to set hook on those fish. The communication from the end of your line through the rod and into your hands of that fish shaking its head underwater is undeniable, and the nice, smooth bend of this rod, while a little forgiving, is at the same time, powerful and confidence inspiring. Anyone who has ever caught or targeted spotted bass know one thing - these fish are mean and absolutely crazy and any size fish three is an absolute thrill to catch.

Conclusion: When battling crazy fighting fish like spotted bass and pikes, it pays to have a rod with the unique characteristics of a light, sensitive, forgiving tip, yet a solid, unrelenting backbone. Hookset-Global delivers this combination and more with their ProSpin GLX. On pure performance this rod is a lot of fun to fish and on that characteristic alone, this rod is worthy of my Editor’s Choice!

The Nomad by Hookset Global; a rod designed especially for kayak anglers.

In recent years we have seen a huge growth in kayak fishing. Today there is a rod for almost every style an angler can think of, and as kayak fishing grows there will be rods made for this group. Hookset Global, while not the first, has introduced kayak specific rods that are designed for kayak anglers with specifications to meet their needs on the water.

The main reason I bought my Kayak not long ago was fishing. After I took my kayak few times for paddling exercises I felt ready to try fishing. Couple of weeks ago I have purchased a new Hookset Global rod aimed specifically towards kayak anglers. The Nomad rod has a length of 2.1 meter. At that length, anglers can operate the rod efficiently from casting to fighting around the kayak. Should the fish decide to run around to the other side of the kayak; the angler can easily swing the line around the bow or stern.

Another very useful design feature is a soft and durable tip. There is nothing annoying more than hearing the tip breaks while trying to land a big fish. At Hookset Global took it under consideration and they have equipped the Nomad with a soft tip. The soft tip makes it easy to keep the fish on the surface of the water without worry from rod snapping in crucial moments.

The weather and sea conditions have forced me to keep my new Hookset Global Nomad rod in the closet. However, I promise to write my first fishing report using the Nomad as soon as possible including performance details and, hopefully, some fish pictures.