ICAST 2015 Coverage - Majorcraft

ICAST 2015 Coverage

Majorcraft Unveils Some Majorly Exciting New Rods!

Date:	8/13/15
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	Majorcraft
Reviewer:	Wolbugger

Introduction: After an extended wait, Majorcraft finally arrived on U.S. shores and released their Nanoace rod lineup. Although our recent review of their WJ731M model was a good one, some people have expressed disappointment that Majorcraft's much-sought-after JDM offerings aren't readily available here in the states. Much to the delight of us and probably a lot of our readers, the wait finally appears to be coming to an end for at least one of these series' of rods!

Majorcraft was hush-hush about the type of graphite Corzza uses, but said it's a special medium-high modulus material.

Corzza: The announcement that the Corzza is coming to the U.S. is surely welcome news! The folks at Majorcraft tell us that these rods will be the same as the JDM versions and carry along a lot of great features. Starting with the cosmetics, these rods are simply beautiful to look at. The stunning brown blanks are complimented by black wraps with gold accents, and all rods are adorned with split cork grips as well as a butt cap for added detail.

Casting rod actions vary from medium to medium-fast, while spinning models span from medium-fast to extra-fast.

The blank color looks great in the light!

Construction-wise, like some other rods on the market Corzza rods utilize an “X-wrap” graphite reinforcement from the handle to the first guide for extra support and strength. Each rod also sports stainless-framed KR (spinning) and K (casting) guides with SiC inserts. Casting models use a smaller-than-average-sized guide set, but don't confuse these with micro guides. Expect to see six spinning models (including three “finesse” rods) ranging from 6-feet 4-inches for 3–7 pound line up to 7-feet rated for 5–10 pound line priced from $149.99 to $169.99. Eleven casting models will hit the market (including three “bait finesse” rods and a frog rod) ranging from 6-feet 5-inches for 3–10 pound line up to 7-feet for 14–30 pound line priced from $169.99 to $189.99. All rods are one piece and include a rod sock.

From the butt cap......

…..to the grips, there's a lot of detailing in these rods.

Checking out the two brand-new Don Iovino Signature Nanoace finesse rods.

Don Iovino Nanoace Finesse: Finesse fishing icon Don Iovino recently teamed up with Majorcraft to develop special “Signature Series” finesse rods that were debuted at ICAST. Touting the same construction as the existing Nanoace lineup, these sticks are equipped with extra-fast actions for easy hook setting. The two models include a 6-foot 9-inch spinning rod rated for 1/8–3/8 ounce lures and 5–10 pound line, as well as a casting model measuring 6-feet 10-inches rated for 3/16–1/2 ounces and 6 to 10 pound line. Expect a price of $129.

These new rods carry additional labeling and clip-style hook keepers.

Giant Killing saltwater rods would be a welcome addition to the U.S. product lineup.

Many varieties of hardbaits were being shown including these cranks.

We appreciated the tour from the Majorcraft staff!

Conclusion: In addition to the new Corzza and Nanoace rods, Majorcraft had their Giant Killing saltwater sticks on hand. While there's no immediate plan to bring these to our market, the folks at Majorcraft simply wanted to “gauge interest” at the show. Also on hand was the lineup of Jigpara jigs and all types of Zoner hardbaits, but we were told the lures are not ready yet. In the meantime, the Iovino Signature Nanoace rods will become available in September, while the Corzza will hit later this year. There's no doubt we're interested!