The Wychwood Riot Recoil: who says you get what you pay for?

If you're in the market for a Scope style ‘extendable butt’ carp rod at sensible money, then the Wychwood Riot Recoil should be uppermost on your shortlist.

After using this rod extensively for both short to medium-range carp fishing - not to mention deadbaiting for big river pike and zander on the local drains - I can tell you now: you won’t be disappointed.

Let's start with the specs. The Wychwood Riot Recoil comes in two lengths,9' and 10', with test curves ranging from 3lb to a beefy 4 lb (ideal for spod/marker work). 

I opted for the 9’ 3.25 lb TC version, which has quickly become my ‘go-to’ allrounder, landing me fish approaching 30lbs without breaking sweat. 

The rod has plenty of backbone, roo, providing that crucial confidence when battling a big chunk; and the slim and responsive blank allows you to feel every little twitch and nudge.

In the river, I’ve matched this rod with 40 size Riot reels and 30lb braid, targeting zander and pike to great effect; on the lakes, I’m able to cast a 3oz lead with 15lb mono a comfortable 80-90+ yards making it ideal for more modestly proportioned ponds.

Super light, thanks to the high-modulus carbon blank, with a comfortable EVA handle and custom guides (that minimise friction and enhance casting distance), it’s fine for wobbling those deadbaits too; allowing you to work long stretches of canal or river bank without tiring.

Then of course there’s that hatchback-friendly packdown size; allowing you to travel light and make the most of your time by the water.

Which just leaves the perennial question: how does the Recoil stack up against costlier competitors like Nash Tackle’s Scope and ESP’s QuickDraw 4k rods? 

Well, there's no denying Nash Scope rods offer some premium features; but as to performance…  there’s little to choose. 

And at up to five times the price, the Wychwood Riot Recoil represents incredible value. As, incidentally, do the matching reels.

So, if like me, you have a number of different setups for different species - meaning your budget may be stretched a little… thin - you can be assured: the Wychwood delivers performance way in excess of its modest price tag.

And eye-catching aesthetics that  would not be out of place on one of its premium priced competitors.