In the competitive world of fishing gear, the Rise Fishing Co. Level Series 9-foot 7-weight rod is making waves with its unique combination of strength and responsiveness. This rod, priced at $550, has proven itself on the bustling carp rivers of Denver, showcasing its ability to handle challenging conditions with ease.
"Soft rods are having a moment," noted Rick Mikesell, who recently tested the rod. He emphasizes a shift among manufacturers towards more flexible options designed to enhance feedback during use. However, he also highlighted the necessity for rods that deliver raw power, stating, "Sometimes power is the priority, and that is where the Rise Fishing Co. Level Series 7-weight steps in."
The beauty of the Level 7-weight lies not just in its performance but in its craftsmanship. With an ergonomic cork grip crafted from premium materials and an anodized-aluminum reel seat, the rod exudes a high-end feel without the luxury price tag. "The fit and finish of the rod suggest a higher price," Mikesell remarked, noting the deep gloss blue of the blank and the impeccable detailing in the guides and wraps.
Mikesell paired the rod with a Scientific Anglers Amplitude Infinity WF7F line initially but found it lacking in performance until he switched to an Airflo SuperFlo Ridge 2.0 Power Taper. "The rod loaded quickly, turned over longer leaders with ease, and carried over 60 feet of line with authority," he explained. This adaptability in casting approaches allowed the rod to excel in various fishing environments, demonstrating its versatility.
During field tests in both rivers and a large Colorado reservoir, the Level rod impressed Mikesell with its remarkable balance of finesse and muscle. In moving water, where carp often battle against swift currents, he found the rod’s lifting power significantly met the challenge. "It loaded quickly without feeling unstable and handled big carp in the current with control," he stated, emphasizing its capability under pressure.
Capturing the essence of a typical day of fishing, Mikesell shared his experience of casting to carp actively feeding on baitfish. "The Level delivered consistent 50- to 60-foot casts and lifted strong fish out of vegetation," he remembered. This capability is crucial for targeting species like redfish and seatrout in coastal environments as well.
Transitioning to bass fishing, Mikesell found the rod equally adept. "The rod had no trouble turning over large poppers and bass bugs," he stated. He explored the rod's limits further by incorporating an Airflo 7-foot fast sink tip polyleader, which he usually found cumbersome. "What is usually a clumsy, chuck-and-duck setup fished surprisingly clean," he noted, with the rod performing effortlessly amidst challenging conditions.
Behind this high-quality rod are the passionate founders of Rise Fishing Co., based in the heart of striper territory in Long Island, New York. Steve and Koby, who developed the brand alongside their outdoor adventures, infuse their love for fishing into their products. Mikesell reflects on their ethos: "Together, they have built a company rooted in fishing, with a clear focus on making rods that feel right in the hands of anglers who use them."
In summary, the Rise Fishing Co. Level Series 9-foot 7-weight rod represents an impressive blend of technology, design, and usability. It caters to anglers who demand performance without sacrificing sensitivity. As fishing trends evolve, this rod stands out as a reliable option for various fishing styles and environments, echoing the commitment of its creators to meet the needs of everyday anglers.
