Ansel - 10.9ft.
The Ansel is a very light and compact (Tenkara/Keiryu) rod designed to master small to medium trout in small rivers and streams.
The action took years to perfect. The result is a fast action rod that is simply superb for nymphing while also casting dry flies beautifully. In fact, the Ansel will cast a 3.5 level line, a furled line, or fly line with accuracy and finesse.
So, is this a Tenkara rod?
We often get asked the question. If you are a Tenkara angler, then think of the Ansel as a Tenkara rod that’s optimized for nymphing with more of a backbone and a fast action tip. If you are a Keiryu angler, the Ansel is simply a compact Keiryu rod, similar in many ways to the Daiwa Keiryu X-36 but dialed back on the stiffness.
Specs
The Ansel rod is a perfect backpacking rod. It extends to 10.9 ft., collapses to 15.8 inches, and weighs 2.3 oz when fishing it. The rod uses high end IM Japanese carbon, providing exceptional sensitivity and feel! Let’s talk about the handle. This rod does not have cork handle. Instead, we applied a friction enhanced coating on the handle section. The lack of cork or EVA foam means LESS weight and MORE sensitivity.
Warranty and Service
The Ansel comes with extra tip sections and a LIFETIME warranty. Like all of our products, if you have an issue, call us and we will fix the issue so you can go back to fishing. It’s that simple.
SEE BELOW FOR MORE ON SPECS.
“As a casting instructor, I work with fly anglers at all levels. But I particularly enjoy working with beginners. I first picked up the Ansel to help a stroke survivor overcome his physical limitations and get back to fly fishing. Since then, I have found this rod, paired with some specially designed lines, to be a wonderful place to start for many “newbies.” But make no mistake, this is not just a one trick pony for beginners. The same qualities that offer them early success offer the experienced angler an edge. With crisp action and a tip section that somehow manages to balance incredible sensitivity with lateral stability, the Ansel's casting performance far surpasses many of the other fixed-line options on the market. The faster action of the rod also makes it much more versatile, accommodating dries, droppers, tight-lining, small indicator rigs, and even weighted streamers. What started as the answer to a specific student challenge because of its simplicity has now become a rod/line setup I reach for myself because of its performance. My favorite rods can all be described as “magic wands” that disappear in your hand and become an extension of you. This setup achieves that status for me."
- Cari Ray
Fisher Of Zen / Professional Guide
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
Ansel rod
Hard case
Soft sock
Extra tips (top two sections)
ROD SPECS
SECTIONS: 11
EXTENDED LENGTH: 10.9 feet
LILLIAN: Rotating lillian
COLLAPSED LENGTH: 15.8 inches collapsed
WEIGHT: 2.3 oz (w/o plug)
ACTION: Fast Action
TIPPET: 7X - 5X
CCS : 31 Pennies. Find out more.
SPECIES: Small to Medium Trout, Bass, Bluegill
FISHING APPLICATIONS
Nymphs
Dry & Wet flies
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Ansel is a perfect backpacking and small river / stream rod. It delivers exceptional sensivity and casting using 3.5 level lines, furled lines and traditional fly lines. Its fast action makes it superb for hitting pocket water and deep holes with nymphs. You will get positive hook sets with the Ansel, guaranteed. When the fish are rising, throw dry flies and enjoy the lightness and feel of the rod.
CASTING GUIDE:
Use a TENKARA style cast. Take the rod back to the 12 o’clock position, hold the rod with your index finger pointed forward and use your wrist.