My only ever warranty claim was with Daiwa, I had a Monster Mesh jigging rod let go on me(no it wasn't high sticking either), I didn't have the reciept but returned it to the place of purchase (Bluewater). They made no promises but said they would contact the Rep, 10 days later I got a phone call saying I had a new rod at the store ready to collect. I was pretty damn happy with that service. I too have heard bad things about Daiwa mainly with reel issues, just thought I would share a good news story as well.
Tim