Loomis Archipelago and Boss Braid

[Enigma]

Loomis Archipelago HMG Spinning Rod

The all new Loomis and Franklin Archipelago is here and making its way to our local tackle shops. It's a rod to fit the slot for long range spooning, plugging and to tackle Big Kob on bucktail and paddletails off the rocks or behind the banks in the surf zone.

Not only is the rod fitted with all Fuji Components it is fitted with the Alconite K series guides that are going to look after your braid surfaces and prevent component corrosion.

The layout is according to the Fuji recommended KR Concept choking the spinning coils to zero, followed with more running guides to improve rod power, sensitivity and hook sets.

340gr total weight on the 11'

 

[Enigma]

All in all the low down power of the base, parabolic curved tip of the rod with the placing and layout of the components makes this rod a casting machine.

Although rated 1-3oz the rod comfortably casts a 1/2oz spoon a mile by using a longer drop on the casting leader. The hard EVA which is delicately lazer engraved along with the Aluminium trimmings and the fine Turquoise Blue and Black binding rounds the looks off and matches the casting quality of the rod.

The flattened edges of EVA make for a comfortable under the arm rod hold whilst plugging.

 

[Enigma]

Since these rods are new on the market I suggest you enquire at your local tackle dealer for pricing and ask them to order some if they don’t have in stock.



10' Line Wt : 15-40lb (6.8-18.1kg) Casting Wt 3/4-2.5oz (21-70g)

11' Line Wt : 20-50lb (9.1-22.7kg) Casting Wt 1-3oz (28-84g)

 

[Enigma]

I got my first spool of Teflon coated Boss Skinny 8 Strand 20lbs. True to form the first thing I did was tie a Few FG and Bob Sands knots and test the braids knot and mainline strength.

After testing 14 knots only one broke in a knot and all others in the Braid. Breaking strain was impressive in terms of consistency. 21.4lbs min and 21.9lbs Maximum

 

[Enigma]

My first impression was that the braid seemed a bit thick but it measures in at under 0.14mm and is super smooth, with a secure weave and the Teflon coating has it flying smoothly and silently through the guides.

Here one can clearly see how tight and clean the FG ties with the braid

 

[Enigma]

Combined with the Archipelago and a Azores 55 I could comfortably get my 2.5oz GT Ice cream to distances of over 120m. I’m really looking forward to testing this rod and braid combo on some Struisbaai Kob and St Francis Garrick in Late January.

 

[Enigma]

Here I have tied using the bob sands knot with no knot in the braid and only half hitches to close it off. This connection gave a constant 21lbs+ in testing

 

[kanalla]

Does anybody know the prices of the rods--foned around my area but no luck.

 

[Enigma]

R1450-1500

 

[kanalla]

Thanks--will fone around to see who's got them.

 

[bronxie]

Enigma,your thoughts on pairing this 11 ft rod, with a Daiwa Bg6500 for plugging and spooning in Gabon. You think it would handle it.?

 

[Enigma]

It will as long as you adhere to the line rating and cast weight ratings

 

[Limpopoking]

bronxie wrote:

Enigma,your thoughts on pairing this 11 ft rod, with a Daiwa Bg6500 for plugging and spooning in Gabon. You think it would handle it.?

That's a monster reel for what sounds like a fairly light setup... I'd have guessed rather the 4500. My 2c

 

[bronxie]

You reckon the BG6500 filled with 50lb Gosen braid plus this rod would be unbalanced/unsuited. For me the balance between the 3 is of utmost importance considering the application its intended for. What would you recommend? Gabon has some serious arm straightners ? I dont like to fish too heavy.Throwing plugs and poppers for half a day with a telephone pole aint fun? But also want something that has the 'balls' to hold its  own..... 

 

[200ts]

Hi Enigma

Please let us know how the rod performed, I hope you got some nice fish on it

Thanks
Regards
Amith

 

[Enigma]

All I can comment on is how far and how smoothly it casts.

I got so busy with shark fishing (my bad) that the rod was relegated to catching Shad for slide bait (sorry:?:?)

Biggest fish I landed on it was a 25kg Diamond ray...... that became a swimbait so there was no time or even thought of a Pic of the fish or the rod and fish

 

[200ts]

LOL, Cannot blame you, Thanks for the reply Enigma. From what you described , I have no doubt it is a solid , capable rod.

 

[200ts]

Decided to get the 11foot which was delivered yesterday. First impressions wow! This rod oozes quality.

Next one on my radar is the metaloid... Enigma thank you for bringing this the other rods to our attention.

It is nice to know that you do not have to break the bank to get excellent quality rod's

 

[The Macster]

There will also be a 12ft rod available in that range coming in soon ....

really looking forward to fish that for the steenies here in false bay

and Overburg areas..._seal1_

 

[Enigma]

Also a 10' coming soon