The Tackle Tart

Review: Hardy Marksman 11' Avon First Impressions.

Published on 2010-04-01 07:16:00

Being a complete tackle tart I have had my eye on the beautiful Hardy Marksman Rods for some time. However there always seemed to be insufficient funds in the bank to be able to argue a strong enough case with the wife.With recommended retail prices on the Hardy Marksman rods somewhere between £280 and £390 the argument that, “I have always wanted a Hardy Rod” or “Hardy make the finest rods in the world…even Prince Charles uses them” fell on deaf ears.That is until I was lucky enough

Review: Abu Garcia Abumatic Premier 704 Closed Face Reel

Published on 2010-03-02 12:40:00

With Abu Garcia releasing the new Abumatic 706 closed face reel the previous model the, can now be picked up at very reasonable prices.The closed face reel was particularly popular back in the 1970’s with match anglers as it allowed them to fish into the wind when conditions would have proved impossible with a fixed spool reel.The build quality is tough and workman like. Just don’t expect the finish and finesse of a Shimano. It is by modern standards a little clunky and the anti-reverse isn�

Review: Fox International MSB Folding Foot Plate

Published on 2010-02-10 09:08:00

There is quite a bit of controversy to be found on various fishing forums about the Fox International MSB Footplate. With a whole gamut of contradictory reports and speculation about the quality and the materials used in its manufacture.Firstly the footplate is not plastic as some would allege. It is in fact a beautifully welded box metal frame. The box frame then has a metal plate, with multiple hexagonal drainage holes patterned across its surface, secured to its top side which in turn is the