ARK Rods Invoker Pro IVP76MLXS Spinning Rod Product Review

Rod Review

ARK Rods Elevates Invoker Series to "Pro" Status

Date:	11/27/21
Tackle Type:	Rod
Manufacturer:	ARK Rods
Reviewer:	Cal

Total Score: 8.08 - GREAT

Introduction: It's been a couple years since we've taken a look at ARK Rods's Invoker lineup. Maybe as a way to rekindle interest, the manufacturer has taken it upon themselves kinda-sorta refresh the series. Our first look comes with an intriguing spinning rod. Introducing ARK Rods Invoker Pro IVP6MLXS.

ARK Rods Invoker Pro IVP76MLXS Specifications
Material	40T high modulus carbon fiber w/ carbon nano-tube reinforcement
Length	7'-6"
Line Wt.	4-10lb
Lure Wt.	1/16-1/2oz
Pieces	One
Guides	8+Tip SS/Zirconium
Rear Handle Length	10
Power Rating	Medium Lite
Taper	Xtra-Fast
Rod Weight	4.3oz
Origin	Made in China
MSRP	$149.95

ARK Rods's Invoker line gets a refresh and is elevated to "Pro" status

Impressions: I said "kinda sorta" in the intro because ARK lists both series on their website even though they describe the Invoker Pro as being "next generation." Regardless, the IVP76MLXS is definitely a more refined composition than its previous, non-pro counterpart. Measuring at seven feet, six inches (7'-6") in length, the stick is built on a 40-ton high modulus carbon fiber blank reinforced with nano-tube technology - a combination usually reserved for sticks well over $350.

The blanks feature the same wrap pattern as the Reinforcers

ARK adorns the rod using stainless steel framed guides with Zirconium inserts, and a custom, exposed blank reel seat. Mimicking the unsanded blank look of their new and very popular Reinforcer series, the Invoker Pro's blank features a sort of animal print pattern all around - a result of the wrap used to keep the blank's raw materials together during rolling, baking and curing. This wrap serves no functional role in the performance of the blank, but it does give the rod a very unique appeal that's quickly becoming a signature look for the manufacturer.

Matched with a circa 2015 Daiwa Ballistic EX spinning reel

Real World Tests: Given the red highlights on this stick, the first reel that popped into mind with which to match it was my old reliable, circa 2015 Daiwa Ballistic EX spinning reel. I spooled that reel up with a fresh supply of 20lb Berkley X9 braided line and tied on a leader of 6lb Sufix Advance Fluorocarbon and readied the IVP76MLXS for some late winter, early spring trips out on the water.

The IVP76MLXS takes a little adjustment during a cast because of its length

Casting: Though I've fished with a few 7'-6" spinning sticks and am perfectly comfortable with bait casting rods of this length or longer, it's always a bit of an adjustment when I have a new spinning combo with a rod this long. Somehow, with the IVP76MLXS, that adjustment period is pretty short. This could have something to do with ARK's faster taper on this stick although I'm not certain if it's a true "extra-fast."

Guides are stainless steel frames with Zirconium inserts

I started out with this stick fishing a drop shot. Pretty much status quo for me when fishing a new finesse rod, but quickly found the taper to match what I like when fishing something like a Ned Rig. Once I grew accustomed to the rod's length and the slight extra time it takes on the back cast to load, launching and placing my ned bait combo was a breeze.

Some spinning rods of this length can feel a little sloppy after the cast as the blank reverberates, but the IVP76MLXS handles fine in this regard.

ARK doesn't skimp on the bling

Next Section: Pro level sensitivity?