I recently got a look at the brand new Shimano Tiralejo XX surf rods while at the Saltwater Fishing Show this past weekend. The new rods incorporate some of Shimano’s technologies from their boat and big game rods into a surf rod for a responsive, good-casting, and fish-stopping setup for bass, blues, and drum from the beach. There are six models, from the 9’6″, 3/4- to 3-ounce to the 12′, 2- to 6-ounce, available in actions of moderate, moderate-fast, and fast. All models carry a price of $489.99.

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While I only got to wiggle the new rods inside the convention center in Edison, New Jersey, I liked the upgraded feel, and grips (spiral-wrapped tape under shrink wrap), and look forward to trying them out in the surf this season.

From Shimano:

“The pinnacle of surf-casting rod performance is here. The flagship Tiralejo XX series of surf-casting rods, with proven powers and actions, leverages Shimano’s legendary patented rod technologies to improve angler performance when battling large fish in heavy surf. Tiralejo XX rods incorporate Shimano’s proprietary Spiral X and Hi-Power X technologies to enhance the transfer of power throughout the rod blank while maximizing casting distance and accuracy. This combination of blank technology provides unsurpassed sensitivity while delivering maximum lifting power. Additionally, the Tiralejo XX rods feature a custom ergonomic grip, Fuji sic guides, and a Fuji DPS reel seat with a locking nut for added comfort and security while casting heavy lures during harsh conditions.”

And, if like me, you could use the occasional refresher on the various Shimano rod technologies, here you are:

“Spiral X”
Through its exclusive lightweight structure, Shimano’s patented Spiral X construction enhances catching power for anglers. Spiral X construction consists of three layers: a middle layer of vertical fibers as well as inner and outer layers, both comprised of carbon tape that tightly winds the blank diagonally in opposite directions. By using this carbon tape in place of a conventional horizontal fiber sheet, Spiral X achieves enhanced compression rigidity and increased torsional rigidity without adding extra weight. This facilitates instant power transmission for precise casting and fish fighting.

(In other words, the blank is stronger, and has less wasted movement when casting and fighting fish, while staying lightweight.)

“Hi-Power X”

Hi-Power X construction uses diagonally-wrapped carbon tape to form an array of “X” shapes on the rod blank’s outermost layer. The width of the tape, its winding angle and the part of the rod being wrapped are fine-tuned according to the target fish species. This manufacturing process allows Shimano to adjust these wraps during construction for precise actions, enhanced overall strength and added twist resistance. In short, Hi-Power X construction delivers sharp and crisp rod control for the angler.

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