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In the developing and evolving world of match and coarse fishing, Shimano is always moving forward. Its Aero match and coarse fishing concept continues to evolve and innovate – just as you would expect from its history and legacy in the field.
Naturally, exciting new additions are arriving in the higher-end segments. However, due to the surge of new and returning coarse anglers in recent years, the entry-level range is also expanding to meet growing demand. The first new series to hit the market is the latest edition of the popular Aero X7 Feeder Rod Series. Every detail, challenge and possible advantage were carefully considered to elevate this series to an even higher level.
This, says Shimano, is a cutting-edge range of feeder rods meticulously crafted for serious feeder anglers who demand precision, power and peak performance. Designed with advanced carbon technology and tailored rod actions, the Aero X7 series delivers class-leading capabilities that redefine what’s possible in feeder fishing rod design.
At the core of the Aero X7 is an innovative blend of High Modulus Carbon, HPC (High Pressure Carbon) and Nanosheet technology. This unique combination results in a range of super lightweight, slim, strong rods with ultra responsive actions. The inclusion of Diaflash increases power, casting accuracy and fish-playing control.
Within the range you will find three distinct groups.
Finesse
Designed for shorter range feeder work up to 30/40m. The exceptional soft playing action is perfect for skimmers or small silvers – for example when fishing braid straight through on natural venues. Also for bomb fishing or close range work with (method) feeders on commercial venues for match sized carp. Available in 9ft, 10ft and 11ft.
Precision
The Precision rods are designed for accurate medium range feeder fishing up to distance work. They are brilliant for feeder techniques on natural venues or when more power or distance is needed for match-sized carp on commercial waters using method feeders. Available in 10ft, 11ft, 12ft and 13ft.
Distance
Distance feeder rods are designed for fishing rivers and/or extreme long range fishing on larger venues. With powerful butt sections, these rods enable you to overcome all long-range challenges on the largest stillwaters, rivers and European canals. Available in 12ft6ins and 13ft6ins.
Premium components for superior performance
Every Aero X7 rod is fitted with top-of-the-line components to maximise comfort and efficiency. All models are fitted with Fuji K-Type guides. The longer distance models have larger guides for reduced friction when casting with shock leaders. An ergonomic Power Cork handle with tapered EVA butt grip is fitted with Fuji TVS reel seats on Finesse and Precision models for more feeling and Fuji VSS reel seats on the longer models. All are fitted with a slim design Fuji HKM fold down hookkeeper. The Aero X7 is supplied with three different interchangeable premium Aero X-TIP quivertips for maximum bite detection.
Ultimate bite detection
Newly designed and available on the Aero X7 feeder rods are the high-end Aero X-TIPS. These premium quivertips have advanced tapers to create a smooth blended action with the rod. The transition between blank and the X-TIP creates the perfect action and bend during the cast and while playing fish. Also, because the solid tips are built from the highest quality carbon and fitted with strong lightweight premium guides, they have a controlled sensitivity for ultimate bite detection. The fluid action bends in the right area of the tip to maximise bite detection, resulting in more fish caught.
Premium Aero X-TIPS are compatible with any Shimano feeder rod with a Small Diameter (SD) or Large Diameter (LD) fitting on the carrier section. So any of these rods can be upgraded and used with the new Aero X-TIPS.
Shimano Aero X6 Match Float: Advanced design for precision float fishing
Float fishing, alongside feeder fishing, is a popular and growing method among both match and coarse anglers. To elevate the Aero collection, Shimano introduced the high-end Aero X6 Match Float rod, designed for precision and performance. It is designed to deliver unmatched balance, sensitivity and performance. Engineered for float fishing enthusiasts and competitive match anglers, the series blends cutting-edge materials with meticulous craftsmanship to optimise your performance on any water.
Shorter length
The X6 is perfect for commercial carp fishing with wagglers or pellet wagglers, featuring beautiful bending playing actions that excel in taming powerful fish. Available in 10ft, 11ft and 12ft.
Longer lengths
The X6 is designed for traditional float fishing on larger waters, canals and rivers, where the balance and response enable small hooks and lightweight lines to be used with total confidence, whilst still retaining the power to fish larger (fixed) wagglers and sliders at distance. Available in 13ft and 14ft.
Innovation at the core
At the heart of the Aero X6 series lies an advanced construction that combines High Modulus Carbon, HPC (High Pressure Carbon) technology and Nanosheet material, resulting in ultra-lightweight, slim blanks with outstanding responsiveness. To further enhance performance, Diaflash technology has been incorporated into the butt section, providing exceptional casting accuracy and hidden reserves of power for playing fish with precision.
Premium components
The Aero X6 Match Float range is equipped with the finest components to ensure optimal performance and comfort. Seaguide Zirconia High Stand-Off Guides are used throughout the range. A combination of larger, double-legged guides in the lower section enhances durability and casting performance, while lightweight single-legged guides in the middle and tip sections reduce overall weight for seamless line management. The Fuji TVS Reel Seat, with a screw-down EVA Hood, produces a secure, ergonomic fit for your reel and complements the rod’s balance and responsiveness. The ergonomic Power Cork Handle has a tapered profile with an EVA rear grip for superior comfort and control. To complete this ‘sensational’ premium rod, it is fitted with a Fuji HKM Fold Down hookkeeper with very slim and smooth design to attach your hook more efficiently during transport or when placing on the roost bar.
Shimano Aero X1: Redefining Entry Level Feeder Rod Performance
Last year, Shimano expanded the Aero pole collection by introducing additional poles in the entry-level to mid-quality price range. This season, feeder anglers can look forward to the same innovation with the brand-new entry-level Aero X1 feeder range.
With the Aero X1 Feeder rod series, Shimano introduces a ‘fantastic’ range that redefines Shimano quality in the entry level price category with a combination of stunning looks and excellent performance. Combining stylish aesthetics, cutting-edge functionality and Shimano’s renowned quality, the Aero X1 sets a new benchmark for feeder fishing rods at an accessible price point.
Quality without compromise
The Aero X1A series delivers performance without the premium price tag. Remarkably, the Aero X1 Feeders are built on full carbon blanks, not composite materials like other rods in the same price category. This is the reason why they feel so lightweight, well balanced and responsive. With slim dark carbon grey blanks, finished with touches of red, the look and finish of this range certainly stands out on the bank. With models tailored for a wide range of feeder fishing applications – from carp fishing on commercial waters to long-range feeder fishing on natural venues – the Aero X1 series meets the needs of anglers at every level.
Precision designed for optimal performance
Every rod in the Aero X1 range is designed with a specific fishing style in mind. Featuring custom actions, these rods deliver the perfect balance of power and sensitivity to meet the demands of their intended use. Each model comes equipped with two interchangeable quivertips that offer maximum bite detection and allow anglers to adapt to changing conditions effortlessly. The responsive action of the blank, in combination with the HARDLITE guides (special anti-tangle guides on Distance models), offer excellent line management and optimal performance. The hooded screw-down DPS reel seat, mounted on an ergonomical shaped custom-made EVA handle, ensures a secure and comfortable grip during casting for pinpoint accuracy. To complement the looks and efficiency the rod is finished with a custom Shimano Fold Down hookkeeper.
Devil is in the detail of the new Shimano Aero X7
Team Shimano’s Coarse and Match Fishing Marketeer Kris Sloof (above) – one of the men behind the AERO products – is unequivocal when he talks about the new Aero X7.
He tells Angling International: “Everything is in the detail, starting with the High Modulus Carbon blank which is delivered in conjunction with our HPC (High Pressure Carbon) and Nanosheet Technology and elevated even further to another level with Diaflash construction.
“The first part of this unique combination results in super lightweight, slim rods with ultra responsive actions. Diaflash increases power in the lower part of the rod for optimal casting accuracy and fish-playing control.
“Next to that we added different high-end components like Fuji K-Type guides, Fuji TVS reel seats on finesse and precision models for more feeling and Fuji VSS reel seats on the longer models. Also a slim design Fuji HKM fold down hookkeeper is added.
“The last bit is the biggest change – we changed the long spliced-in one piece feeder tips into carrier section/push-in tips. We took the time to get the fluid action of a spliced-in design into a conventional version with tips. This included numerous testing days during the development period by our pros including Nick Speed to get all details right. We could get this perfect action because of the clever design of the blanks’ taper and also we developed a new line up of quiver tips – the Aero X-tips.”
Sloof admitted that creating an upgrade was no easy task – especially when managing to stay at the price point. “It’s difficult especially when you already have a good performing high-end rod, hence it was a project that from start to signing-off took approximately two years.
“You really have to pick up these rods and feel them to compare them with similar style rods on the market. You will be impressed and we are sure these are top in this range if you take into account the quality, design and actions.
“You cannot fail to fall in love with them. For bomb fishing and fishing braid straight through for silvers, the Finesse models are so light and soft. For method feeder work, the 10ft Precision model is even better than the previous X7 – sometimes you don’t expect big differences in a price point such as this, but they are.
“From all my years at Shimano my personal favourite is the 12ft6ins rod. I just told someone during fishing the other day that this is the rod I’ll use and cherish even when I am old and grey as casting is so easy. Everybody can cast at distance and hit the clip with ease.”
