Is it an ABU… is it an Akios… no, it’s the ‘new’ TF Gear Force 8 6-series and 7-series multipliers.
Looking familiar? Thought so. You could be mistaken for thinking that these reels are Akios, but the coloured spools and handle give away that this is a new product. Information is slim on the ground but looking at the specifications over on Fishtec, these reels are pretty much identical to the Akios reels we reported on last month.
To add to the confusion, it looks like Akios have poached Alan Yates as consultant. Or perhaps Akios and TFG have come to some kind of arrangement and this is just a re-badge.
The 6-Series reels are the traditional 6000 size multipliers favoured by beach anglers, while the 7-Series is a 7000 size, suitable for light boat work, uptiding and heavy shore fishing. There are a range of models to suit. The 6-Series features an anodised, red handle and spool, whilst on the 7-Series they are blue. These slight cosmetic alterations are all that set the TFGear Force 8 reels apart from the Akios range.
Continue reading “TF Gear Force 8 – 6 & 7 Series Multipliers”
The Leeda stand at the Tackle & Guns Trade Show was a highlight; the Wychwood section being the jewel in the crown. I was lucky enough to catch up with Paul Richardson, designer for the Wychwood Game brand who generously guided me through his latest developments. There were many but one that really stood out was the new Wychwood Wader Bag.
As I’m writing this I’m checking the date on my watch… It’s far enough away from April 1st for me to continue.
A couple of years back, myself and a good friend of mine (Dan Sissons) were enthusing over some custom fishing reels when it was suggested how awesome it would be to have a bright white fishing reel. It’s fair to say that the thought was most probably triggered as a result of Apple’s iPod domination of cool and the resulting trend in shiny, white sports cars, but the point was well made – we didn’t have an ultra cool, white fishing reel.
48-hours after the Tackle & Guns Show and I’m left with the opinion that perhaps saltwater anglers have done best in terms of new tackle developments this year (maybe carp anglers last year). The sheer volume of new sea fishing gear, from budget to ultra high-end was noticeable and I’ve been trying to understand, why 2010/2011? First thoughts were towards a trend caused by the economy – but what? I guess sea angling stands out amongst other disciplines because it is perhaps the most accessible area of the sport where you can actually catch food for the table – that certainly seems plausible given the trend in home grown fruit and veg. Maybe all those celebrity chefs