Anyone who has been bass fishing since the days of patch-riddled satin jackets and tackle trays filled with hand poured worms knows the legacy of Fenwick. Once the gold standard for serious anglers, decades of tough competition from large companies have relegated Fenwick to a nostalgic brand championed for its consistency and quality – until now. Fenwick's entire lineup has been completely redesigned from the ground up with 265 models that have been rethought from butt-to-tip with Fenwick’s unmatched sensitivity as its guiding light. To say we were eager to try these rods would be an understatement. Fenwick’s updated offering leans on the naming of previous generations with Eagle, HMG, Elite, and World Class representing their quality tiers from good to best, respectively. With its approachable price point and wide-range of bass specific models, the Elite series draws immediate comparison to established competitors, like Zodias and Tatulas, providing a clear barometer for testing and making it an ideal choice for our review. Cosmetically, the Fenwick Elites boast a space gray blank, clear resin finish that exposes the precisely wrapped guides, and a hybrid EVA/cork handle that bookends a custom reel seat. In hand, the whole series feels extra light and intentionally balanced with actions displaying some foresight towards specific techniques. Time to put these rods to the test, and see how they stack up the market-leading options in the same price class. "Cosmetically the Fenwick Elite Rod has an attractive multi-material handle type and high level of craftsmanship that gives it a premium and sophisticated look and sets it apart from other Fenwick Rods."
"Through-the-roof" sensitivity
Durable high gloss finish and guide wrapping
Versatile 35 model series
Slick gunmetal gray aethetics
Tough competition on the market in the same price range
Reel seat on the spinning rod
Constructed from a blend of 36 and 30-ton graphite with proprietary reinforced resins for increased feel, the Fenwick Elite Series Rods collectively earned a high sensitivity rating making them a premiere option for bottom contact techniques or tactics that require subtle bite detection. While some initially took issue with the feel of the non-traditional hybrid spinning reel handles, it was hard to deny the ultra-sensitive vibrations from the rod and positive feedback from the reviewers after getting them out on the water. Earning a solid performance rating that exceeded many of our expectations, everyone was extremely pleased that the high-quality components also translated to a high level of performance.
“I was really happy with the 7’5” MH X Fast and it worked as expected with the Strike King Gravel Dawg 10—the rod loaded and threw the bait great and the sensitivity was awesome as well.” - Jeff
Earning a strong score in the durability category, the Fenwick Elite Rods received positive remarks during the review period with all of the reviewers only reporting minimal scratches to the blank due to normal wear and tear. There's very clear attention to detail in the build of each rod, notably the straight guides, well-applied epoxy, and rubberized end cap which all contribute to a sturdy and reliable rod. One reviewer noted that they had issues properly securing a Shimano Spinning Reel to one of the spinning rods but improved the fit by adding some tape at the reel seat. By the end of the test period, none of the guide wrappings showed signs of bubbles or cracking, and the Sensi-touch handles proved durable, earning these rods another exemplary review rating aside from some exceptions with the reel seat.
In terms of value, opinions were mixed among the reviewers with some agreeing the series was competitively priced based on their performance potential, and others who thought they were slightly overpriced compared to alternatives like the Shimano Zodias or Daiwa Tatula Elite Series. From expert craftsmanship, beautifully epoxied guides, and highly sensitive multi-material handle grips, the Fenwick Elite Series is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Ultimately, interpretation of value always comes down to angler preference, but we feel confident saying that the Fenwick Elite Rods command a strong presence within their respective price range.
Comprised of thirty-five different model options, the Fenwick Elite Series Rods are available in a vast range of powers and actions that cater to nearly every application a serious angler could ask for. From ultra-finesse drop shot rigs to big-bodied swimbaits, there's undoubtedly a model within the Fenwick Elite lineup ready to tackle any challenge or technique. After completing the test period a lot discussion sparked as to what each model excelled best for, which speaks to the versatility and utility these rods offer on a model-by-model basis.
Revitalizing the Fenwick brand for a new generation of anglers, the Elite Series demonstrates the company's dedication to lifetime customers and showcases an incredible amount of hard work synonymous with Fenwick’s legacy of quality craftsmanship. Throughout our 8-week evaluation process, it became evident that the 36 and 30-ton graphite blanks and flawless build of these rods offer commendable performance and durability, earning solid scores in both categories. While the Fenwick Elite Rods deliver on its promises of sensitivity, strength, and overall utility, they face stiff competition from other options in their price range. Between the lightweight feel, sturdy construction, and wide selection of models, the Fenwick Elite Rods are a truly reliable investment for anglers looking to upgrade their rod quiver.