What does this mean?When rating the build quality of a rod, consideration has been given to some of the basic components such as the materials used in the blank, handle, reel seat and line guides as well as any additional features that make life on the bank easier for anglers.
Casting Ability8.5
What does this mean?How a rod casts is one of the key fundamentals that determine a great rod from a mediocre one.
Easy, frictionless casting that provides accuracy and distance is all rated in this category.
Playing Fish8.0
What does this mean?The ability to play fish effectively is an important feature of any fishing rod.
Fishing is a sport, and as part of this sport, feeling the pulls, lunges and the fight of a fish is an exhilarating feeling that adds to the overall experience and enjoyment of angling.
As such, this is all taken into account when rating fishing rods.
Value For Money8.0
What does this mean?How much any fishing rod costs is always going to be a key factor in an angler’s final choice.
A rod can have all the bells and whistles under the sun but if you have to re-mortgage your house to purchase it then all of a sudden it isn’t the best choice for some.
When rating how much value for money a rod brings, consideration has been given to how the rod performs in all the other categories vs its price point.
A good option for both beginners and those experienced to the sport
Features & Specs With An Explanation
Feature
Explanation
Contribution To Overall Rating
Lengths
Available in 12ft only
Limited to one length option, which may reduce flexibility for some anglers.
Test Curves
1.75lb for casting light leads up to 4oz; 2.25lb for heavier feeders over
6oz, handling stronger currents.
Offers good adaptability for both small and large rivers
Weight
Approx 250g for the 1.75lb test curve version
Slightly heavier than some of its competitors
Construction
Two-piece high-modulus carbon blank with an olive finish
Standard blank material
Guides
SiC (silicon carbide) guides, double-legged for extra strength on the
2.25lb version.
Decent guides
Reel Seat
Secure DPS 18mm reel seat for a reliable fit.
Standard reel seat, commonly used in quality rods
Handle
Full cork handle
Good looking and comfortable
Additional Features
Includes Hi-Viz tip for improved bite detection and a hook keeper ring
for easy hook storage.
Useful extra features
Drennan Specialist Barbel Rod Review
The Drennan Specialist Barbel Rod is a purpose-built tool designed for anglers targeting barbel in UK rivers, particularly suited to ledger and feeder fishing techniques.
Available in 12ft lengths with test curves of 1.75lb and 2.25lb, this rod aims to cover a range of barbel fishing scenarios from smaller streams to larger, faster-flowing rivers.
We found that the high-modulus carbon blank offers a good blend of sensitivity and power, with the 1.75lb version handling leads up to 4oz comfortably, while the beefier 2.25lb model copes well with heavy feeders over 6oz in strong currents.
The rod’s action is progressive, with a semi-through design that provides enough give to play lively barbel without sacrificing the backbone needed for positive hook sets and fish control.
On the bank, the Specialist Barbel Rod performs admirably, albeit not quite matching the finesse of top-end models costing significantly more.
Casting is accurate and smooth, with the 12ft length providing good leverage for reaching far-bank spots on wider rivers.
The Hi-Viz tip enhances bite detection, a feature we particularly appreciated during low-light conditions.
When connected to a fish, the rod’s action comes into its own, cushioning lunges while maintaining enough power to steer barbel away from snags. We found it capable of handling other species too, including small to medium-sized carp, and tench on still waters.
Standout features include the double-legged SiC guides on the 2.25lb version, which add durability and the secure DPS 18mm reel seat that ensures your reel stays firmly in place no matter what.
The full cork handle not only looks good but provides a comfortable grip when playing fish and casting.
The solid and comfortable handle on the Drennan Specialist Barbel Rod
At around 250g for the 1.75lb version, it’s not the lightest in its class, but the extra weight contributes to its robust feel.
One minor gripe is the lack of a second tip option, which would have increased its versatility, especially for those who fish a variety of venues.
All in all, the Drennan Specialist Barbel Rod offers good value for money, particularly for anglers looking to step up from entry-level gear without breaking the bank.
It’s a solid performer that should serve most barbel anglers well, providing a good balance of performance and durability. It’s not quite in the class of the elite barbel rods out there but it’s not far off.
While it may not have all the refinements of premium rods, it’s more than capable of handling the demands of UK barbel fishing and represents a sound investment for both enthusiastic beginners and experienced anglers alike.
What Anglers Like (Pros)
Anglers have told us that appreciate the design of the Drennan Specialist Barbel rod, particularly the potential similarity to the 1.75lb duo model.
Anglers find the rod to be a good tool for larger rivers
Durable construction with features like double-legged SiC guides on the 2.25lb version
Many users appreciate the overall durability of Drennan rods and handles, considering them reliable with proper maintenance
What Anglers Dislike (Cons)
Frustration over the fact it comes with only one tip, whereas duo models come with two
Disappointment that Drennan hasn’t released a heavier model, which would be more appealing to some anglers