Long Term Review of FCL Labo UCB-80 Extreme

[Duncan O'Connell]

Hi Andy

The 81 is a stronger blank, I don't think the style of join has that much to do with it. In terms of an allrounder, the 81 is probably the most versitile. I used it a lot at Christmas Island with FCL Ebipop EXT120's poppers and FCL CSP200 and 220 stickbaits. I probably caught 20+ GTs on this rod over a few days and found it to be a very comfortable fish fighting tool.
The 80 is an excellent lightweight rod for working poppers and sinking stickbaits but the stiffness will make surface stickbaiting more challenging.

There is new rod in the works, the 81MH, which is rated to 17kg max lift. I hope to have some more info soon to post on this rod.

Cheers

Duncan

[Andy Rowe]

Hi Duncan,

Thanks again for your reviews, it probably a small thing but is there no drag rating on the 80? I can't see it on the website either. It must be a dream to use all day with such a light weight.

thanks again
Andy

[Duncan O'Connell]

Hi Andy,

There is no designated drag rating for the 80 Extreme.
You are spot on with the dream to use statement. It really is the perfect all day GT rod. I have used it on multiple occasions for 5+ hours of popping and although i was buggered at the end of it. I can't do that sort of duration with many other rods.

Cheers
Tom

[Jeffry Chai]

Hi Tom,
How the tip compare to CV79/40???
Thanks,
Jeff

[Duncan O'Connell]

Hi Jeffry,

The CV79/40 would have a softer tip.
Although it's action would also be faster.

The 80-Extreme has a very moderate action and loading up the rod flexes it right down its entire length. But the actual tip would be stiffer than a 79/40.

Cheers
Tom

[Jeffry Chai]

Hi Tom,
Is it for chugger or stickbait??? What's it best lure range???
Cheers,
Jeff

[Duncan O'Connell]

http://www.fishhead.com.au/store/products/FCL-Labo-UCB%252d80-Extreme.html















Point Lookout GT



It is all explained in the above post Jeff
I would rate its best lure range to be between 120-160g

Kind Regards
Tom