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The KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod either, in its spinning or casting version, is among the best telescopic fishing rods available on the market. Its composite construction and feather-like weight make it perfect for anglers on the go. And the best thing is its price tag!
Key Features:
- 24-Ton multi-layer carbon blank with fiberglass reinforcements
- Split EVA foam grips
- Hook guard
- Floating line guides
- Closed length: 21.7 to 25.2 inches
- Weight: 4.05 to 5.95 ounces
- Spinning and casting models available
Pros:
- Light
- Strong composite construction
- Easy and fast collapse and extension
- Comes with a cloth bag
- Different power, length, and action combinations
Cons:
- Despite being so light, it doesn’t pack as small as other telescopic rods
- The cloth bag only protects the rod form scratches and nothing else
The KastKing Blackhawk II, without a doubt, gives you a lot of value for your money. The friendly price tag makes it an ideal choice for any angler, regardless of his/her experience. Additionally, you get a wide variety of lengths, power, and action combinations to choose from. KastKing made double sure to make it easy for you to find the option that best suits your needs.
But, “the best” is a relative term, as it depends on your needs. So, let’s see if the KastKing Blackhawk II is the best telescopic fishing rod for you.
KastKing Blackhawk II Design
Although looks are not as important as performance, the KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic rod not only feels premium, it also happens to look like a high-end rod as well.
Both the spinning and casting versions have the same all-black exterior with some golden lines, which gives the rod its premium look. Also, the KastKing Blackhawk II keeps the same golf-like EVA foam handle than other rods from this brand.
All models, regardless of the extended lengths, have six sections. The only thing that changes with length is the number of line guides you get. The larger models have 10 line guides, while the shorter rods have 8.
KastKing added a series of golden lines on either side of each section. Use them to make sure that each section is perfectly aligned.
KastKing Blackhawk II Construction
Now, it is time to dig a little deeper. So, let’s talk about the overall construction of the rod.
Pole
The whole rod, except for the tip, has a 24-Ton carbon fiber construction. The tip of the telescopic rod has a solid fiberglass core to increase its strength.
You have eight different lengths to choose from, starting at 6’6” all the way to 8′. Either way, all rods have the same number of sections. Thus, no worries about ramping the weak points with the increasing length.
The pole is rather thin, and the first quarter bends fairly easily. So, make sure not to put it through too much strain. Besides, telescopic rods are not as strong as a 1-piece rod. So, it pays to remember its limits.
All models have a collapsed length between 21.7” to 26.8”. They are somewhat longer than other travel rods. But they have an outrageous advantage: The weight. With less than 6 ounces, you can take the KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod anywhere you go.
Line Guides
Depending on the model, you will either get 7 or 9 line stainless steel line guides with ceramic inlets plus one floating guide. These are perfect for high dissipation and friction reduction, which reduces the chances of a line snapping. On the other hand, the floating guide helps to distribute the weight evenly along the line. Thus, reducing the tension.
Reel Seat
Going down to the reel seat, the KastKing Blackhawk II features a reinforced graphite seat. Thus, you can use this rod on saltwater as well.
Right above the reel seat, you have a hook keeper or guard. You can use it to keep your rod rigged even when it is closed. This way, you can start fishing in no time.
Handle
The Blackhawk II features a split EVA foam handle. It is very comfortable, big, and durable. All are desirable features in any rod.
Power and Action Configuration
Most Telescopic fishing rods come in either medium or medium-heavy power and fast action. But the KastKing Blackhawk II comes with a wide variety of power and action options.
For instance, telescopic spinning rods come with either medium-light, medium, medium-heavy, or heavy power. In terms of action, you can choose from fast or moderate-fast.
In contrast, the telescopic casting rods come with the same action options, but you get heavy power instead of medium light.
As you can see, you have several options to choose from. Thus, you can be sure that you will find the model that best suits your needs.
KastKing Blackhawk II Performance
For nobody is a secret that 1-piece fishing rods have no match in terms of integrity. Thus, telescopic fishing rods are somewhat less reliable. However, it is quite unlikely that you will be using such a rod for landing massive fishing. So, with that out of the way, let us tell you that the Kastking Blackhawk II telescopic rod does a super job as a travel rod.
It does have some unsettling flex in the first quarter of the rod. But you should be fine, provided that you muscle the fish with care and keep away from weeds. The bright side is that the rod is very sensitive. You will feel even the slightest of bites, which is ideal when fishing for bass or trout.
Extending the rod is remarkably easy, something that is not common among telescopic fishing rods. Just bear in mind that you should start extending the rod by its tip, and work your way down to the reel. It is the other way around for closing. That is starting from the section closest to the reel. Additionally, you should check the section alignment from time to time, as they tend to move. This is a common problem with telescopic fishing poles. So, it is not a deal-breaker.
So, in short, the KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic rod has a strong overall performance. Just remember that the tip is rather soft, so forget about landing massive monsters.
The KastKing Blackhawk II: Final Thoughts
- SOLOSCOPIC PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY – KastKing...
- MULTIPURPOSE – The KastKing BlackHawk II travel...
- CONVENIENT- Besides the obvious advantage of easy...
The KastKing Blackhawk II is a super telescopic fishing pole. First, all models retail for under 60 bucks. Plus, you get a lot of value for your money, which is a classic advantage of KastKing products. So, you should definitely purchase it if you are searching for a reliable telescopic fishing rod.
Something truly remarkable is the number of options you have. You can go for a 6’6” telescopic spinning rod with fast action and medium power, or you can purchase the 7′.1” casting rod with fast action and medium-heavy power. It all depends on your needs.
The carbon fiber pole is extremely light, which makes this rod perfect for those anglers looking for backpacking fishing rods that won’t break their backs. Its superb sensitivity allows you to feel every movement. But the tip flexes a little too much, which might be a deal-breaker for some. Make sure to check this video if you wish to see this rod in action.
