REVIEW: Denali Kovert Spinning Rod
After having such an incredible experience with the new Denali Kovert Flippin Rod, I just had to get my hands on one of the spinning rods they were offering in the new line. Two different models are available. The K863MS, a 7’2″ Medium-Heavy action, Moderate-Fast flex model suited for 10-15 pound test line and 1/4 to 3/4 ounce lures. And, the K822MS, which comes in a 6’10” Medium, Moderate, 6-14 line, 1/8 to 5/8 lure version. I opted for the latter.
When I pulled it out of the rod tube, I immediately noticed the signature Kovert good looks along with the sensitive IM-8 flat black blank, Skeleton Reel Seat, 9″ ultra-light EVA handle, trademark stabilized hardwood foregrip, and dimpled aluminum winding checks. This model also sports 13 total (12+1) graduated semi-micro guides. Yes … you heard correct … semi-micros on a spinning rod! I was a bit skeptical at first, too. But, as you’ll see, they really added a new dimension to this rod.
First I had to have the weigh-in on this very light rod. Surprisingly, it only came in a half-ounce lighter than two other similar rods in my arsenal. Then, I remembered that the other two rods are also very lightweight, but cost more than twice as much.
Next, it was time to get this thing wet! First I tried it out as a split-shot and drop-shot rod. Due to the moderate flex, I wasn’t expecting it to excel with these techniques. Boy, was I wrong! The sensitivity of the rod in this arena was never in question, and it performed extremely well, as expected. But, despite the stiffer flex, the casting distance with the 1/8 ounce weights I was using was nothing short of amazing. Easily going further than my more expensive rods were able to reach. Plus, between the flex and the semi-micro guides, my accuracy was spot on. Best of all, the slightly stiffer blank led to easier, more powerful and consistent hook sets, and the action made fighting a fish to the finish smooth and confident despite the 6-pound test being employed.
Second time out with the rod, I gave it a go as a worm rod. I put a Malibu-rigged (weightless T-rig) Senko on the end and began casting, flipping, and skipping it all over the place. Again, the sensitivity, castability, accuracy, and power were evident throughout the session.
Next time, I went with a lightweight T-rigged technique. This is where I feel this rod was at it’s best, and where I will use it the most. Whether I went with an 1/8 ounce weight, or a 1/2 ounce weight, I was able to routinely put my bait exactly where I wanted to, and get it to spots I wasn’t able to previously reach. Even the slightest of pick-ups were immediately noticeable, the heavy-handed hooksets necessary for the technique were readily achieved, and the battles that ensued were handily won.
While you may think that this is an awful lot to expect from a rod priced at only $129, you are correct. It is! But, the the new Kovert Spinning rod delivers just what Denali promises from the entire Kovert line: a rod “designed from the ground up to help you catch more fish and stay on the water longer”.
MSRP – $129
Cave Club Rating: 4.5 Clubs
Cave Club Scale
5 Clubs = The Missing Link
4 Clubs = Rock Solid
3 Clubs = Better Than Sharp Stick
2 Clubs = Not Fully Evolved
1 Club = Should Be Extinct
Caveman Catching 