Daiwa Theory 14ft Speci Float Rod review

If you like your float rods with a bit of backbone and a touch of class, the Daiwa Theory 14ft Speci Float rod is right up your street. It’s the sort of rod that feels deceptively light in the hand (240g to be exact), but carries enough power and poise to handle proper river work, think chub and barbel, not just dace and roach.

At 14ft, it gives you lovely line control and balance, whether you're trotting a stick float down a pacey glide or swinging out a heavier Avon. It’s got that flawless, progressive action that makes fish-playing feel smooth and steady, even when you’re into something solid. It’ll fish happily with mainlines from 4 to 10lb, and you can drop right down to 0.14mm hooklengths if you’re fishing fine.

The build quality is exactly what you’d expect from Daiwa. Fuji Alconite stand-off guides, a proper cork handle at nearly two feet long, and a secure screw-down reel seat with a neat EVA thumb grip. Classic on the outside, modern where it counts. A rod that’ll cover a surprising range of float work, and one that feels a bit special every time you pick it up.

While it would be nice, we don't all have an infinite budget when it comes to fishing tackle, but that doesn't mean you can't get a great quality rod as the The A-Class float range proves! The entire range is great option for anglers who are looking for an affordable and versatile rod who do a bit of everything. The range includes four models, but the 3-piece 13ft model is perfect for stillwater and river waggler/slider fishing for silvers.

The A Class is made from 24T tensile carbon, which provides a good balance of power and flexibility. With stainless steel frame guides, fitted with titanium oxide rings provide durability and help to reduce line friction. The downlocking DPS style reel seat is comfortable to use and handle.

The Daiwa Connoisseur Pro Power Float is the pinnacle of float rod engineering, designed to excel in challenging river conditions. Building on the legacy of the iconic Connoisseur name, the rod epitomises performance.

Benefiting from Daiwa’s cutting-edge technologies, including X45 carbon and High-Volume Fibre (HVF), the Connoisseur Pro delivers exceptional balance, power, and feel. The 15ft length offers market-leading control over larger floats and baits, making it the ideal choice for chub in strong currents using stick float and Avon float tactics.

Undoubtedly the rod of choice for the serious angler who expects the very best, the Connoisseur Pro effortlessly balances sensitivity and power, making it a formidable weapon in your armoury.

The Drennan Acolyte Specimen float rods are designed for anglers who want a rod that's both elegant and powerful. They're slimmer and better balanced than previous models, but with extra power for handling bigger fish. Imagine a rod that can handle anything from small fish on light lines to large specimens like chub, tench, barbel, and even carp. I use these rods extensively for my river fishing and they really are superb, a firm favourite of specimen anglers when using float tactics.

These rods have been tested extensively, from fast-flowing rivers to deep lakes. This means they're versatile enough for almost any situation. They're designed to give you excellent control over your line and float, especially when fishing at longer distances so you can maximise every inch or your swim, often getting where other anglers can't fish effectively.

The Acolyte Specimen rods come in 13ft, 14ft, and 15ft lengths. They're made in three sections and have a smooth, progressive action that bends through the rod. This helps to protect your line and absorb the lunges of big fish. The fast-action tip helps with casting and controlling your float. Featuring a comfortable cork handle, reliable Fuji reel seat, and high-quality guides. These rods are ideal for reel lines between 3lb and 7lb.