Reviews & Where To Buy
| Feature | Explanation | Contribution To Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Lengths | Available in 12ft length only | Only available in one length |
| Test Curves | 1.75lb and 2.0lb test curves offer versatility for fishing in different water conditions | 2 light test curve options available |
| Weight | Lightweight, weighing at 215-220 grams | This weight is average for this rod type |
| Construction | Built with high-modulus carbon with a progressive action. | A standard build |
| Guides | Fitted with durable SiC guides | Lightweight Guides |
| Handle | Slim cork handle | A comfortable, standard type handle |
| Reel Seat | Secure DPS reel seat which is a screw type that offers good stability | Good solid reel seat |
| Action | Progressive action with a sensitive tip | A good action, but lacks raw power seen on more premium models |
| Casting Weight | Best suited for reel lines between 6lb and 12lb and weights of up to 3 ounces | Covers most fishing scenarios |
| Additional Features | Features a built-in isotope holder in the tip | Lacks additional features seen on its competitors |
The Sonik Angl-R Barbel rod offers anglers a good blend of performance and affordability.
Designed for light ledgering and light method feeder work, this rod is designed to target species such as barbel, tench and even small to medium-sized carp in both rivers and still waters.
Its high modulus carbon blank provides a good balance of power and sensitivity, albeit not the best when comparing it to more premium models which, for the price, you would kind of expect.
It does however have enough backbone to handle larger fish if called upon and also enough sensitivity to still land silvers without hook pulls.
On the bank, the rod’s features enable it to perform well. The powerful butt section confidently manages hard-fighting barbel, while the sensitive tip transmits lighter touches.
Casting feels smooth and accurate, whether flicking a bait to the near margin or reaching for spots up to around the 60 yard mark.
The full slim cork handle offers a traditional, yet comfortable, feel to the rod and the built-in isotope inserts prove invaluable in low-light conditions.
In testing, we found that occasional line catches around the isotope holder may occur, which can be annoying, but it’s a minor quirk in an otherwise well-thought-out design.
For anglers looking for a versatile, budget-friendly rod that still has something about it, the Sonik Angl-R Barbel rod delivers good performance that belies its modest price tag.
Here is how the Sonik Angl-R Barbel Rod compares against other products in its category.
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Korum Barbel Rod | 8 | £46.99 |
| Daiwa Powermesh Barbel Rod | 8.1 | £123.99 |
| Daiwa Infinity EVO Barbel Rod | 8.5 | £319.99 |
| Korum All Rounder | 7.4 | £49.99 |
| Drennan Specialist Twin Tip Duo | 7.9 | £109.95 |
| Sonik Angl-R Barbel Rod | 7.5 | £58.49 |
| Drennan Specialist Barbel Rod | 8.1 | £119.99 |
Etackle’s objective is to provide anglers with key information on fishing tackle products to help them make an informed decision before purchase.
We do this by writing about our own experiences of the product being tested as well as researching information from other experts in the field as well as reviews from other users.
This means you have an unbiased review from a number of sources all in one place. For more information on how products are reviewed on Etackle, please visit our dedicated page on the review process.
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