Graphiteleader VELOCE GLVNC NEO-70M

I have really been getting into my pike recently, so decided to bite the bullet and order a suitable rod and reel. After trolling the net and asking opinions of a few trusted pike anglers, I decided on a bait casting set up. In the end it boiled down to two different rods in the Veloce range from Graphiteleader. Eventually I decided on the one piece, Graphite Leader Veloce Neo 70M, from Nippon tackle.

I find it really useful when considering new tackle to trawl the interent looking for pics and reviews, so I have taken a few photos, which might help anyone considering a new bait casting rod, such as the Veloce.

The Veloce really is a stunning rod, one I would put in the same quality bracket as my favourite rod, the Daiwa Branzino 80ML. This rod was 100% built in Japan, and the blank is made from 99.9% carbon. The blank comes UNGROUND in black, with Fuji Titanium K-Series Guides and Fuji ACS Reel Seat, it really does look and feel a classy rod!

I personally really like unground rods, rather than having a glossy lacquer finish. An unground rod (used to be called “Wrapped”) is 5-15% stiffer than a ground finish, and this can also lead to a stronger blank. I will be pairing the Veloce with a Tailwalk ELAN micro tune 73R which has come highly recommended by Marco from Havelritter.

I will add reports throughout the year when using the Veloce and Micro tune, I will also add reviews later in the season.