The Century Tip Tornado Graphex Supermatch 13ft 6in is a high-performance beachcasting rod from Century’s renowned Tip Tornado series, infused with their latest Graphex technology. This rod is a superb all-rounder, expertly balancing power, sensitivity, and casting efficiency. It’s designed to excel across a wide variety of fishing grounds, from clean sandy beaches to mixed terrain, making it a favorite for match anglers and those who need a single rod to handle diverse conditions.
Key Features and Technology
The Supermatch is a product of Century’s continuous innovation, integrating several of their most significant technologies:
- Graphex Technology: This is a proprietary material science that combines a bespoke resin matrix with Graphene, a Nobel Prize-winning substance. This infusion significantly enhances the blank’s strength, durability, and responsiveness. It results in a lighter rod with improved casting distance, tracking, and sensitivity.
- Autoclave Technology: The rod blank is cured under high heat and pressure, which consolidates the composite structure and eliminates voids. This process leads to a stronger, more consistent, and more durable rod that retains its optimal performance over time.
- Gearbox Design Butt: The butt section features a “phased composite taper” that acts as a gearbox, progressively storing and releasing energy during the cast. This design makes the rod remarkably easy to load and contributes to its smooth, user-friendly action.
- SG-T Glass and IM Carbon Cored Tip: The tip of the rod is a complex hybrid of SG-T (Super Glass-Carbon) and Intermediate Modulus (IM) carbon. This combination provides exceptional bite indication sensitivity, allowing the angler to detect even the most subtle bites from wary fish.
- Anti-Twist Technology (AT-T): Built into the blank, this technology helps to prevent the rod from twisting during the cast. This ensures that the guides remain aligned, leading to greater casting accuracy and efficiency, especially important with powerful casting styles.
Specifications
- Length: 13 feet 6 inches (4.10m)
- Casting Weight: 125-200g (4-7oz), with an optimal weight of around 5oz plus bait.
- Sections: 2 equal length sections.
- Blank Material: High-modulus carbon with a Graphene-reinforced resin matrix, Autoclave Technology, and Gearbox Design.
- Butt Diameter: Approximately 21.6mm.
- Action: The rod has a progressive, continuous “J curve” action under load, which gives it a smooth and powerful feel. It is a very versatile rod that is effective with a wide range of casting techniques, from overhead thump to pendulum.
- Guides: American Tackle Titanium K Guides, which are lightweight, robust, and feature an anti-tangle frame design. They are configured for both multiplier and fixed spool reels and are tied in platinum metallic with azure blue inlays and tips.
- Reel Seat: A Century CNC-machined Fuji DPS sliding reel seat, which allows for adjustable reel placement to suit individual casting styles.
- Handle: Japanese shrink rubber (JSR) handle with a separate JSR rubber separator grip on the lower tip and upper butt sections.
- Additional Features:
- Marine-grade etched stainless steel trim bands on the upper and lower butt.
- 3M reflective tape between the top two guides for night fishing.
- Supplied with a genuine Century partition rod case.
- Made in the UK.
Performance and User Experience
The Century Tip Tornado Graphex Supermatch is a rod for the discerning angler who wants it all: distance, sensitivity, and versatility. It has a reputation for being able to propel baits a long way with relative ease, thanks to its powerful butt and smooth action. The rod’s ability to handle both heavy-duty casting and provide exceptional bite detection is a major selling point. Anglers often comment on its light-to-hand feel and its ability to remain effective in a variety of fishing scenarios, from fishing for cod in winter to targeting smaller species like whiting and flounder in the summer. It is a testament to Century’s craftsmanship, offering a truly premium fishing experience.