Ripple Fisher Powerfight GT 711 nano and FCL Labo UCB 81 Extreme

[Dan Hanon]

Guys,

Looking for a dedicated popping rod for 150-170g.  Lots of options......Two that came across my mind were the Ripple Fisher Powerfight GT 711 and FCL Labo UCB 81 Extreme.

Anyone have experience with either of these?  All suggestions welcome.

Thanks,

Dan

[Chris Dennis]

I used to have the old 78 Powerfight which was my chugging rod for that range of poppers. I got rid of it because i prefer slightly longer rods but the new updated nano version looks good.
My mate Vic uses the FC Labo, he caught the 60kg Omani GT referred to on the Fishhead website. Very good mid range rods, I've used Vic's last time we were in the Andamans. Contact Duncan for his view on these.

[Ming Choi]

In the FCL range, the applicable FCL model is the 81H version and 710H. The 81H will handle that range of poppers no worries, and also tippy enough to use big stickbaits (i can cast and swim 220g unrigged lures). The 710H is a proper popper rod that will be easier to pop and handle bigger poppers as well, but it's dedicated to popping and not much use for stickbaits.

For Ripple Fisher, the old Flex 78 was an excellent rod for that range of popper, these days the 77 Flex/711 Powerfight should also do those lure weights well but I personally haven't used those.

[Leo Sorbello]

Hi Dan,

I have the FCL Labo UCB 81 Extreme....blue coloured trims. Super rod indeed, the range of poppers you want use, you'll have no issues..it will work up to 200g poppers and large stickbaits like Ming mentioned.

I've used and tested poppers in the 150 - 180g well on the FCL Labo UCB 81 Extreme. I'm not a very strong person, but with a steady and good fighting stance technique..I've felt comfortable fishing 8 - 12 kg drag on this rod.

You'll love it !.

Regards

Leo

[Dan Hanon]

Thanks Guys,

The FCL Labo 81H sounds like a good choice. I understand the blanks are made by Yamaga too.

Dan