Korda Kaizen Platinum Carp Rod Review
Last Updated on 21 February 2024 by James Bevan
Being a premium rod with a hefty price tag, these rods are best suited for more experienced carp anglers that have the ability to make the most out of the advanced materials used in the build of the rod.
Carp anglers who require a rod to fish at long-range will also appreciate the advantages that the Korda Kaizen Platinum carp rod brings.
Overall Ratings
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Comparison To Similar Rods
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Korda Kaizen Platinum Carp Rod This rod | £389.99 | |
| Daiwa Basia X45X Carp Rod | £279.99 | |
| Century Stealth Graphene Carp Rod | £399.99 | |
| Harrison Torrix Carp Rod | £398.52 | |
| Free Spirit Hi-S Carp Rod | £699.00 | |
| Nash Scope Black Ops Carp Rod | £319.99 | |
| Century C2 Mk2 Carp Rod | £499.99 | |
| Greys AirCurve Carp Rod | £149.99 | |
| Daiwa Longbow X45 | £287.49 | |
| Nash Scope Black Ops Sawn Off | £229.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Build Quality: The rod truly lives up to its premium tag. The high-grade Japanese carbon blank, the Fuji DPS reel seat, and the Japanese shrink-wrap handle all scream quality and finesse
- Outstanding Accuracy: The Kaizen rod was spot on with every cast. Whether I was casting to the horizon or just beyond the margins, each cast flew like it was on rails
- Superior Casting Distance: These rods pack a punch when it comes to casting distance. Even with my average casting skills, I was hitting 130 yards with ease and I’ve no doubt that in the right hands, hitting 200+ yards is well within this rod’s capabilities
- Sensitivity and Power Balance: Despite being built for distance, it doesn’t compromise on playability at the tip, the action is superb.
- Design and Aesthetics: The matte black finish, understated graphics, and high-quality Jag components create a rod that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to fish with
Cons
- Hefty Price Tag: The only real downside is the price. With a price range from £374.99 to £479.99 RRP, this rod is a significant investment. But considering the quality and performance on offer, it could well be worth it for the serious angler.
- Potential Overkill for Short Range: The sheer power and capability of this rod could be seen as overkill if you’re mostly a short-range angler with the exception maybe of the 12ft 3lb test curve version. The other models are designed to excel at long distances, so if you’re not often casting to the horizon, you might not be making the most of its potential
The Different Variations Of The Rod & How They Are Best Applied
| Length | Test Curve | Max Cast Distance | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 ft | 3lb | 120yds | Small to Medium sized waters |
| 12 ft | 3.5lb | 150yds | Good all-rounder Medium to Large sized waters |
| 12 ft | 4lb | 175 yds | Long distance rod for large waters fishing at extreme distances and/or with snags or weed present |
| 12 ft 6' | 4lb | 180 yds | Long distance rod for large waters fishing at extreme distances and/or with snags or weed present |
| 13 ft | 3.5lb | 160 yds+ | Good all-round use, popular for European venues |
| 13 ft | 4lb | 180 yds+ | Long distance rod for large waters fishing at extreme distances and/or with snags or weed present |
The Key Attributes Scrutinised
Every rod is scored against the five attributes that matter most to carp anglers. Here is how the Korda Kaizen Platinum performed in the original review.
Features9.0/10
Features and Specifications
| Feature | What this means |
|---|---|
| Lengths | Lengths available in 12, 12’6 & 13ft lengths |
| Test Curves | Test Curves available in 3, 3.5 & 4lbs |
| Guides | Lightweight stainless-steel guides |
| Reel Seat | Fuji DPS reel seat |
| Tip Ring | 50mm butt guide with 16mm tip ring on all models |
| Finish | Low glare matt paint finish |
| Handle | Japanese shrink grip handle with flared butt |
| Butt Cap | Stainless steel trim rings with JAG etched stainless butt cap |
| Blank | Fast tapered profile blank for higher compression strength |
| Blank | Super tensile high-grade Japanese carbon |
The handle
As a tall guy, I’ve found the handle’s length to be a perfect fit, and the slight flare toward the butt offers an extra degree of control, making those distance casts a tad easier.
The balance and lightweight nature of the handle really does enhance the overall feel and maneuverability of the rod.
The reel seat
The Fuji DPS reel seat, in my experience, is a gold standard, offering both firm fixation of even the largest reels and also a seamless blend into the overall aesthetics of the rod.
Topped off with attractive silver flecks, the reel seat not only functions brilliantly but also adds a stylish edge to the rod.
The eyes/guides
This rod is equipped with lightweight Tdg C guides, leading from a generous 50mm butt ring down to a 16mm anti-frap tip which is a great setup for distance casting.
In action, I’ve noticed the larger butt eye really allows for the line to funnel smoothly, while the smaller tip ring keeps the line flow tight and accurate.
The blank
One word to describe the rod blank... Progressive. It’s built from 0.90A Super Tensile High-Grade Japanese carbon, making it remarkably lightweight and stiff, which I feel aids tremendously in casting distance and accuracy.
The understated matte black finish combined with the quality of the blank screams premium; it’s a rod I’m proud to have on my test.
Appearance8.5/10
The matte black finish, understated graphics, and high-quality Jag components create a rod that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to fish with.
Casting & Feel9.5/10
The Kaizen rod was spot on with every cast. Whether I was casting to the horizon or just beyond the margins, each cast flew like it was on rails.
These rods pack a punch when it comes to casting distance. Even with my average casting skills, I was hitting 130 yards with ease and I’ve no doubt that in the right hands, hitting 200+ yards is well within this rod’s capabilities.
Playing Fish9.0/10
Despite being built for distance, it doesn’t compromise on playability at the tip, the action is superb.
However, the Kaizen is not all about brute force. Its balanced action means that every lunging carp can be effortlessly managed, offering an experience that almost rivaled the superb sensitivity of the Free Spirit Hi-S.
Value For Money8.5/10
Every product, however exceptional, has its downsides. The Kaizen’s notable disadvantage is its substantial price tag, a hurdle that might deter some potential users.
It’s also worth noting that this is a specialist rod designed for distance casting. Consequently, its attributes might not be fully appreciated by the angler who frequently finds themselves casting shorter distances.
Expert Review Summary
"They cast like a dream, offer exceptional accuracy, and are a joy to use. These rods are definitely worth the investment"
"The Korda Kaizen rods are a highly anticipated addition to the fishing industry. With their innovative design and use of top-of-the-line materials, these rods offer anglers a powerful and lightweight option"
Video Showing The Korda Kaizen Platinum Carp Rod In Action
Final Thoughts & Conclusions
In summary, the Kaizen Carp Rod has emerged as a truly standout offering from Korda bearing in mind that carp rod is not their forte, scoring an impressive 8.9 overall. This exceptional score doesn’t come lightly, considering the rod was measured against other industry giants of the carp rod world.
Korda really has made an impressive leap into the high-end carp rod market with the Kaizen. The quality of the build is immediately apparent and you can just tell a lot of thought and research has gone into every component.
This is a rod that feels great in the hand and even better on the cast. Distance and accuracy are two standout attributes of the Kaizen. I found myself comfortably achieving distances of 130 yards and beyond which, for me, is a triumph.
There is an exception to this though in that the 12-foot, 3lb test curve model is a well-balanced option for shorter distances. I just wish that there was a 3.25lb test curve alternative but that is largely down to personal preference.
Nonetheless, the Korda Kaizen Platinum carp rod is a truly stellar performer in the carp rod market, finding its unique space amidst top-rated rods. Its high score is indicative of its superior quality, impressive casting ability, and balanced action.
Despite its hefty price tag and potential overkill for short-range use, the Kaizen leaves an undeniable impression and deserves serious consideration from any devoted angler looking to level up their gear.