Daiwa’s new Saltiga Jigging reel is built to make vertical jigging easier and more effective, while their SOL MQ LT spinning reel is finely tuned for light tackle anglers. Rounding out their most notable new offerings, Daiwa Ardito travel rods combine packability with performance. We dive in below.
First Look: New Daiwa High-Power Reels & Travel Fishing Rods
Saltiga Jigging
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Vertical jigging is one of the most physically and technically challenging fishing tactics. The quick precise jerks of the rod and hard turns of the reel handle produce a lure action fish can’t ignore and anglers struggle to endure. To the rescue is Daiwa’s new Saltiga Jigging reel.
Whether I’m cranking and jigging or working a big fish to the boat, the reel handle is where the rubber meets the road. The Saltiga Jigging reel has an oversized 85-millimeter handle with a soft exterior and flattened thumb rest for maximum comfort and power. The power handle is connected to an adjustable aluminum handle turning a beefy gear system housed in a durable and stiff body. The whole system is protected by Daiwa’s MagSeal magnetic oil which seals the internal parts from moisture and grime.
My favorite feature is the spool lock. When my jig is snagged in the bottom, I switch a small knob on the side of the reel locking the spool so I can muscle the reel to break the line. Another cool feature is the spool automatically engages from free spool when I turn the handle. Many times I get a bite as my jig is dropping. With the Saltiga Jigging, I turn the handle, immediately engaging the spool and hooking the fish.
SOL MQ LT
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Finesse fishing is the hottest trend in saltwater and freshwater and a fine-tuned spinning reel gives me a major advantage when using a super slow presentation. Daiwa’s SOL MQ LT spinning reel includes Daiwa’s most advanced technology aimed at creating the most responsive and powerful spinning reel.
For finesse fishing, a spinning rod offers greater sensitivity for working a small lure and feeling the bottom and bites. Compared to a casting reel, a spinning reel allows me to cast a light lure farther with more accuracy. To maximize weight savings, the light bail, spool, rotor and shaft reduce rotating weight. To minimize the size, the MQ uses a one-piece carbon fiber body with screw-in handle that reduces size and improves rigidity. This allows Daiwa to stuff the largest machine-cut aluminum gear inside for increased power and durability.
To meet the needs of light tackle anglers, the SOL MQ LT comes in sizes from 1000 to 5000.
Ardito Travel Rods
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Collapsable and modular travel rods usually require an angler to make compromises in action and performance. Daiwa designed the Ardito line of travel rods to eliminate the compromises so an angler gets the best experience when fishing in a dream destination.
The Ardito Jitte is a collapsable rod that uses a high-performance graphite blank for top-of-the-line performance. The rod collapses and fits inside the rod handle to create the smallest and toughest package possible.
The Ardito TR is a multi-piece rod with Daiwa’s premium bias graphite construction with cross-wrapped graphite tape to improve strength and sensitivity. Fuji Alconite guides and Daiwa’s custom reel seat further improve sensitivity. My favorite feature is the cork grips, which I prefer for comfort and traction.
The weak point on any travel rod is the ferrules where the rod sections connect. Both Ardito models use Daiwa’s unique V-Joint which eliminates the flat spots to give the rod a smooth bend through the length similar to a traditional one-piece rod.
The rods break down small enough to fit in a suitcase or carry-on. I can carry the rod through airport security and stick it in the overhead baggage compartment. When I arrive at my dream destination to catch a life-list fish, I can expect the performance and feel of a premium rod to complete the experience.
Feature photo: Kayak Angler Staff
