New Nordic Stage Artist: A Revelation

[Obsession_Fishing]

Well we have had some Nordic Stage Artist samples in the country now for a month or so and have been extremely impressed while doing some field tests. With the range due for release at the end of this month, we thought it high time to share some of the finer points relating to this amazing range of rods. Part of the larger “Kilt Collection†range (named for each rods attached “Scottish†tartan), the Artist is the most advanced rod ever manufactured by the Nordic Stage team. Aesthetics aside (which we believe to be phenomenal), there are several points of technology that set it on par with the very best on the market, and in a couple of cases beyond in regards to new and unique tech.

Accurate casting under overhangs accounted for this Australian Bass

Before going into detail the obvious points must be pointed out. The Nordic Stage Artists are a range of premium light and ultra-light spinning rods, which feature an extremely slim and stiff blank, rather unusual in the ultra-light class. The fine, light and stiff tip improves the casting accuracy greatly sending lightly weighted plastics and hard bodies with precision over long distances. Another elite, yet known factor featuring in the rod is the Fuji Skeleton Reel Seat. These seats cut down on weight and allow, for those so inclined to easily rest the forefinger on the blank detecting even the slightest vibration through the carbon fibre.

Hook Up!

The result...

Another noticeable but unique to the Australian market is the introduction of the new Kigan 5G guides. These high quality titanium guides have introduced an ovoid shape to the 5G range. After extensive casting tests it is certain this in no way affects the cast distance, and actually better manages the unspooling of line. An avoid guide as opposed to circular is also another example of weight minimisation.

Kigan 5G guides ovoid shape when compared to a standard round guide...

A not so noticeable (visually) yet fascinating is the introduction of X-Torque technology to the Nordic Stage rods stable. This is yet again an example of the Nordic Stage developers not being simply happy meeting the status quo but moving above and beyond the existing trends. A serious drawback of a conventional rod blank design is that when loaded, the blank will twist and change its shape from round to oval. Thus, the power and the casting accuracy of a rod are reduced. For a better insight into X-Torque and its intricacies click HERE.

Technology aside it has thus far been a great pleasure fishing with this new range. I have applied it to typical and not so typical finesse scenarios and have found it to hold is ground all over the place. My thoughts and recommendations are that this rod will be an extremely useful asset in the arsenal of any serious tournament (style) bream angler who seeks sensitively and the ability to keep fish pinned above all else.

A fat surf tarwhine extracted from the rocks on the

ATS-702LX

[samsteele115]

They look great. Will definitely be keen to try one out. How much will they go for?

[dhess]

Hey Angus, Can you get a custom one made up form me with this pattern?

[Angus]

I do not know how you would do it but another exciting thing coming out soon is we will have the higher end (artist included) blanks available for keen rod builders...

Angus