PENN Conflict XR Slow Pitch Jigging Rods

PENN Conflict XR Slow Pitch Jigging Rod: Precision Performance for the Deep

At Gerry’s Fishing, we’ve seen a massive surge in the popularity of slow pitch jigging, and the PENN Conflict XR is arguably one of the most specialized tools for the job. Slow pitch isn’t just about dropping a bit of metal; it’s a dance of precision, and this rod is the ultimate partner.

The Conflict XR is built on a one-piece design. By removing the joint, PENN has eliminated any “dead spots” in the blank, ensuring a seamless transmission of energy from your hand to the jig. The butt section is purposefully stripped of excess EVA foam, allowing the rod blank to sit directly against your forearm. This means you’ll feel every “knock” or “bump” from a curious fish, even when your jig is dancing hundreds of meters below the boat.

The standout feature is the Spiral Mounted Guide system (often called “Acid Wrap”). By rotating the guides around the blank, the line is moved to the underside of the rod at the tip. This prevents the line from touching the blank under heavy load and, crucially, stops the rod from wanting to “twist” in your hand when you’re battling a monster from the depths.

Technical Specifications

Examples of Where to Use

• Deep Water Wrecking (UK): Perfect for targeting large Pollack, Cod, and Ling over deep-water wrecks in the English Channel or the Celtic Sea. The sensitivity allows you to “feel” the jig working even in heavy tides.

• Norway Expeditions: An ideal choice for working jigs for Halibut and massive Coalfish. The X-Wrap carbon provides the lifting power needed to move flatfish off the bottom without the rod feeling heavy or cumbersome.

• Tropical Blue Water: If you’re heading to the Mediterranean or the Tropics, this rod has the backbone to handle Amberjack, Snapper, and Grouper in depths exceeding 100m.

Gerry’s Pro Tip

“Slow pitch jigging is all about the ‘fall’ of the jig. Because the Conflict XR has such a responsive tip, don’t over-work the rod. Let the rod tip do the lifting for you, and as it recoils, follow the line down with the rod to feel for the take. Most ‘hits’ happen as the jig flutters down. Also, because of the spiral guides, always pair this with a high-quality overhead jigging reel (like a Penn Fathom or Shimano Ocea Jigger) to get the perfect line flow.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the guides twisted around the rod?

This is the Spiral Wrap. It combines the benefits of a multiplier/overhead reel (winching power) with the stability of a spinning rod. It prevents the rod from twisting under pressure and eliminates “tip wrap” where the line tangles around the end of the rod during the jigging motion.

Is a one-piece rod hard to transport?

While a one-piece rod requires a longer rod tube (typically around 6ft+), the trade-off in performance is worth it. You get a much thinner, more sensitive blank that is significantly stronger than a two-piece equivalent.

What weight jigs can this rod handle?

The Conflict XR range features different power ratings. Make sure to match your jig weight to the rod’s specific rating. For the UK, the heavier models are excellent for 200g-350g jigs when fishing deep or in fast-moving water.

Can I use a spinning reel on this rod?

No. This rod is specifically designed for overhead/multiplier jigging reels. The trigger grip and the spiral guide orientation are built to work with the reel sitting on top of the rod.

How does X-Wrap Carbon help?

X-Wrap is a cross-directional layering of carbon fiber. It increases the “hoop strength” of the rod, meaning it can bend into a massive arch without snapping, while also providing a “snappy” recovery that gives your jig its life-like action.