My Shikari Rod Fractured

[Big Shaun]

Hi,

Just wondering if anyone has had a Shikari rod or similar fracture between the 2nd and 3rd guide (from the tip). I just picked it up this week. I think it was old stock because the price was pretty sharp. Took it out today just flicking some plastics around the creek got home tonight, checked over the rod and there it was. The rod is rated 4-6kg and I am running 10lb nitlon braid on my Sol, doing nothing silly, no hookups or snags just some light kokoda flickbaits on it. I also used my samurai rated 1-3kg performed without incident with the same flickbait. Sort of baffled.

Shaun

[Alchemy]

Hi Shaun,

That is very disappointing. I have a 6'6" Shikari 4-6kg baitcaster and have caught plenty of good fish with it. I run 20lb braid on mine and have had it for about three years. So far no probs.

Even if the rod was old stock and provided it hadn't been damaged in the shop the age shouldn't have effected the blank. As matter of interest who built it?

Regards,
Dave.

[Mark Fisher]

I've got 2 Shikari's and love them both. The SH111 is my favorite of the 2. No problems so far (touch wood).

Regards
Mark

[Big Shaun]

My Shakari was built by Australian Rod Manufacturers (Gary Howard). I have about other 6 rods from them with no problems. I might just the unlucky bugger to get the one bad blank in a batch. I will speak to the tackleshop and see what they say.

[Alchemy]

Hi Shaun,

We have three Shikari rods and one samurai, all built by Gary Howard. Great rods. Perhaps you struck a dud as you've suggested.

Regards,
Dave.

[Big Shaun]

Lodged a warranty claim today. Hope to hear something positive back from Gary Howard in the next day or so. I doubt it can be repaired.

[Big Shaun]

Hi,

Got my replacement Shakari rod this week. Even after a few casts last night the action feels so much better. The old one actually felt like it was buckling when casting. Gary replaced the rod no problem. He said he has seen similar faults in blanks before but it is very rare.

Cheers.

[Mark Fisher]

Just for anyone interested - checkout the Rodbuilding.org site and go to the sponsors column on the left - Bingham Enterprises in the US has some great deals on Shikari sellout blanks which won't last long at these prices.

Regards
Mark