This is the Aussie version of our successful US bass model. Designed primarily for throwing crankbaits in deep water, its about as easy casting and user-friendly as can be.
The heart and soul of this rod is the blank. And theres a lot to the design of this one when it comes to action, length, power, balance and feel.
Perhaps the most important aspect of this blank design lies in the construction. There is a very fine line between able to achieve casting distance and retrieve power, but still load easily on hook-set. This blank has the desirable loading feel of fibreglass to protect the hook-hold, yet is high performance graphite which helps achieve easy casting distance, and remains light in the hand.
The super-smooth action is not only great for launching crankbaits with less fouled lures, its also invaluable for protecting the hook-holds as it absorbs the lunges of a big fighting bass.
The longer 710 length is also crucial for easily obtaining this casting distance. And when the lure needs to get a little deeper, by employing the kneel & reel technique and submerging the tip end well down into the water, your crank will dive even further.
The power of the CrankFreak is ideal for popular crankbaits used in impoundment Australian bass fishing. Not only is there the right amount of grunt to get casting distance, but there is also enough power to perfectly control the load created by a big-bibbed crankbait without folding away and then still some to get the hooks in.
The rod is light in the hand, yet still balanced to be slightly tip-down when retrieving which is the natural angle for deep cranking. But its still light enough for easy tip-up retrieves should they be required.
And when it comes to the handle design, Ians trademark Control Freak skeleton handle is minimal and allows for maximum feedback from the lure. And, the parts are all Fuji, of course.
Importantly the extra-long, custom-shaped EVA rear grip can be comfortably tucked under the arm for lure-retrieving which keeps a long day of retrieving big cranks far less tiring, and when it comes to the hookset its a simple matter of using that long butt as leverage to get the hooks in: keep the butt cap against the body and simply sweep the rod tip away from the fish youre on! Then the fish can be fought with the rod tucked under the arm, or however you are comfortable.
The multi-guide train consists of an amazing 13+1 (tip-top) of Fuji Fazlite KR guides! These run super true and easy, and further enhance the overall casting and retrieving smoothness of the CrankFreak AU performance.
Big suspended bass, big water… youre covered!7’10” 2pc (1pc blade+detachable handle)Medium actionRecommended line 6-15lb FC; #15-20 braidIdeal lure range 12-45gmThe latest Fuji Fazlite KR semi-micro multi-guide train (13+1 with #5 smallest size)^Custom Millerods anti-tangle Hook KeeperComplimentary Custom Millerods Rod Sleeve