The Asian Angler - April 2015 Digital Issue - Malaysia - English

The Asian Angler 

April 2015 Issue 

Asia’s Angling 

Lifestyle Magazine 

Salmo Seeker 

Your Travel Companion 

Something Sinister Is Happening 

Rod Ford Sinister Azahar Ebek Special 

Okuma’s Saltwater Powerhouse 

The Okuma Azores 

Made For Ultra Light Anglers 

Rod Ford Lust Area Master 

The Small And Powerful 

Ryobi Mini Power 

A Case That Ups The Ante 

VFOX Robinson RB 04-M 

Knowledge: Let’s Talk About Bearings | Introducin’: Zaco Lures 

1

Robin 

Quality An 

- Made using high quality materials - Spring loade 

- Adjustable compartments 

Brilliant Tackle Sdn. Bhd. 

No. 27, Jalan IMJ 4, Taman Perindustrian Malim Jaya, 75250 Melaka, Malaysia 

Tel: +606-334 4555 Fax: +606 336 2211 Mobile: +6012 631 3561 (Whatsapp 

Website: http://www.brilliant-tackle.com/

7 

son RB-04M 

d Good Looks In A Case 

d covers - Quality latch - Waterproof 

. 

available) Email: enquiry@brilliant-tackle.com

The Fastest Grow 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9aIpEXUJTE 


Email your videos to oagwsb@gmail. 

com together with your name, contact 

number, and addresss. Open to all 

citizens of Malaysia & Brunei. 

OAG Worldwide Sdn. Bhd. 

No. 5-1, Jalan Setia Dagang U13/AJ, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam 

Emaill: info@oagworldwide.com

9 

ing Lure Brand In America 

Want A Reward For 

Catching Fish? 

Shoot a video of you catching a fish on any 

ZMAN Lure saying “Yeah! ZMAN!“ and we’ll 

send you packet of ZMAN lures for free. 

, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.

My fellow anglers and friends, 

Welcome to the April 2015 issue and we hope that you 

enjoy reading The Asian Angler. We have received email 

asking why do we test products in pay ponds as the fishes 

there are easy to catch and do not represent the real thing. 

Well, we’ve actually had to explain this many times (including other questions) and the 

reason is that it all depends on what we want to find out. Take for example a fishing 

rod, we want to see how it flexes, bends, cast, etc. Although the fishes in pay ponds are 

easy prey (not always true) it meets our objectives of wanting to know these points. 

Another thing to note is that pay ponds are basically like labs where we can experiment 

and test things out in a somewhat controlled environment, something we can’t do out 

at sea or at a lake. Let us take reels for example. We want to know how smooth the drag 

is with a real fish, how tough the drag is, how well it cranks, etc. 

Yes, we can do so at sea (and we do too) but we can test max drag pressure at a physical 

lab too using a meter and a skateboard as well as some dumbbells. But with a fish 

it is more fun and one gets to experience the reel. Same can be had out at sea or a lake 

but to get similar answers with a lower risk of not catching anything significant enough 

with the money spent, it makes sense to use payponds doesn’t it? 

Honestly we would prefer to be testing exclusively out at sea or at a lake but with little 

bidget to work with, dwindling fish stocks, and a need for answers, payponds are still 

valid labs. 

Well, I hope you enjoy this issue. Thank you for your support and happy reading. 

Cheers, 

Phil 

Editor In Chief

11 

Stone-Mashe 

For All Your Office Needs 

Stone-Mashe Sdn. Bhd. 

L-1-2, Pusat Perdagangan Kuchai, 

No. 2, Jalan 1/127, 

Off Jalan Kuchai Lama, 

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Contact: 016 202 2635 

Email: ann@stone-mashe.com

Auto Reign Sdn. Bhd. 

14, Jalan PJS 11/18, Bandar Sunway, 

Subang Jaya, 46150 Selangor. Tel: +6016-722 1800 

Email: autoreignsb@gmail.com

13 

Passionate and 

Professional Care 

For VAG Cars 

Like us on our........

Test Drives 

Philemon Foo 

Abu Garcia Sa 

Your Travel Companion 

Testing Grounds: Pak Din Freshwater Fishing Pond 

Series: Salmo Seeker 

Model: Spinning 8’ 

Length: 8’ 

Lure Wt.: 8-20g 

Line Wt.: Not Specified 

Configuration: 4 Pieces (Travel Rod) 

Opponents: Patin (Shark Catfish / Silver Catfish)

15 

lmo Seeker 

Anglers who love to travel will love 

this rod. The Salmo is a good looking 

4 piece rod. Put together it they all add 

up to a length of 8 feet and yet still feels 

lightweight. It is a classic looking rod 

with high quality cork handle sandwiching 

a modern designed reel seat.

17 

30 Ton 

Graphite 

It lightweight is contributed by a few 

factors and one of them is the 30 Ton 

Carbon Graphite blank that is both 

lightweight and powerful with a strong 

sturdy backbone. The blank is also slim 

and sexy which makes it a real looker 

(we had anglers admiring the rod while 

we were fishing during our test).

Weight Saving 

Designers of the Salmo Seeker certainly went 

about looking for ways to cut down some fat and 

to do so they decided on going with lightweight 

LS guides that allow for smooth flow fishing lines, 

is well balanced and gives better recoil power 

quality cork handles, as well as a reel seat with lots 

of holes cut out. These all certainly help reduce 

the weight of the Salmo Seeker.surface.

Sleek Package 

The Salmo Seeker comes with a cordura 

tube with ample protection for each and 

every piece of the rod. The cordura tube is 

also designed with colours tailor made for 

the Salmo Seeker, including the embroidery 

of brand, series, and logos.

Field Test 

Tackle Used 

Reel: Abu Garcia Promax Spinning 

3000h 

Line: Stren Sonic Braid 20lb 

Leader: Berkley Vanish 20lb 

The Salmo Seeker certainly cast very 

well shooting balls of dough to good 

distances. When the bait got whacked 

the Salmo Seeker easily sets the hook 

and then it goes into gladiator weapon 

mode. It fights very well with a consistent 

backbone power despite being a 

four piece rod. 

*Unfortunately we were not able to do a 

lab test for this rod.

Verdict

33 

Built Quality 

Finishing 

Ergonomics (Feel) 

Balance 

Weight 

Components (quality) 

Castability 

Sensitivity 

Power 

Rating: 7 

Rating: 8 

If you are in the market for a travel 

rod that is great for bottom fishing 

or casting out heavier lures, the Abu 

Garcia Salmo Seeker is certainly one 

to consider.

TM 

PENN Squall 

SQUALL 

LEVER DRAG 2-SPEED 

The Squall Lever Drag 2-speed reel allows anglers to step up to the big 

game tackle with confidence. PENN’s proprietary Dura-Drag system results 

in smoother start up and virtually eliminates limitations, even under extreme drag settings. A Stainless Steel gear train and 

® 

our Quick Shift 2 speed system provide the perfect combination of strength and speed. With this reel in hand big pelagics 

don’t stand a chance. 

The stainless steel gear train in our Squall Lever Drag 

reels doesn’t get much tougher. Machined from stainless 

steel and drilled out for weight reduction, these gears offer 

the perfect combination of strength and speed. 

Our Dura-Drag ® material contains a special Phenolic 

bonding agent that prevents premature breakdown 

to water. We then pretreat each drag washer with a 

special compound developed by PENN engineers..... 

SQUALL LEVER DRAG 2-SPEED 

Mono Cap. Braid Cap. Max Drag Max Drag Line Retrieve Weight 

Model Material # (yds/lb) (yds/lb) Bearings @ Strike @ Full Gear Ratio (in)High/Low (oz) 

SQL16VS 1292936 1090/15 • 725/20 • 540/30 1490/30 • 1040/50 • 865/65 4 20 lbs 26 lbs 4.5:1 / 2.1:1 39/18 38.5 

SQL30VSW 1292937 1395/20 • 1035/30 • 595/50 1995/50 • 1660/65 • 1435/80 4 24 lbs 32 lbs 4.2:1 / 1.8:1 41/18 47.0 

SQL50VSW 1292938 1550/30 • 890/50 • 565/80 2485/65 • 2145/80 • 1835/100 4 30 lbs 40 lbs 2.9:1 / 1.5:1 33/17 55.6 

• Lightweight graphite frame and sideplates 

• Forged and machined aluminum spool 

• Stainless steel main and pinion gear 

• Dura-Drag ® washers virtually eliminate hesitation, even under extreme drag settings 

• Quick-Shift 2-speed system 

• 4 Shielded stainless steel ball bearings 

• Double-dog ratchet anti-reverse 

• Line Capacity Rings 

Pure Fishing Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (515617-X) Tel : +603 7832 3380 (H

PENN Fathom 

FATHOM LEVEL WIND 

The PENN Fathom Level Wind’s heavy duty contruction and powerful 

4.3:1 gear ratio makes it a true workhorse and favourite of charter boat 

Captains. It is designed to handle extreme abuse day-in and day-out. Whether you are bottom-fishing or casting live baits, the 

Fathom will stand up to the hardest fishing conditions. A full metal body and sideplates keep precise gear alignment under 

heavy loads. Powerful HT-100 Drag System . 

AVAILABLE IN 

LEFT HAND 

LEVEL 1 

Light Drag Range 

up to 10 lbs. max drag 

LEVEL 2 

Medium Drag Range up 

to 20 lbs. max drag 

LEVEL 3 

Heavy Drag Range up 

to 30 lbs. max drag 

VERSA-DRAG - By rearranging the sequence of the keyed metal 

washers and eared 

a wide range of drag settings without additional parts. 

FATHOM LEVEL WIND 

Model Material # Mono Cap. (yds/lb) Braid Cap. (yds/lb) Bearings Max Drag Gear Ratio Line Retrieve (in) Weight (oz) 

FTH20LWLH 1259867 320/17 • 260/20 • 230/25 675/20 • 500/30 • 350/50 3+1 30 lbs 4.3:1 24 19.5 

FTH25LWLH 1259868 330/20 • 290/25 • 220/30 650/30 • 450/50 • 380/65 3+1 30 lbs 4.3:1 24 20.0 

• Full Metal Body and sideplates 

• Marine-grade bronze alloy main gear 

• Precision-machined stainless steel pinion gear 

• Versa-Drag system with HT-100 washers 


• Instant anti-reverse bearing with silent back up ratchet 

• Stainless steel TiN coated levelwind system 

• Reversible Harness Lugs on 40 & 60 sizes 

unting Line) Fax : +603 7832 3340 Email : info@my.purefishing.com 

35

Test Drives 

Rod Ford Sinister Azahar Ebek Sp 

Philemon Foo 

Testing Grounds: Exotic Pond (Rawang) 

Series: Sinister Azahar Ebek Special 

Model: RFSN632 / 592S-L J (Light Jigging) 

Length: 6’3” / 5’9” 

Lure Wt.: 100g Jig 

Line Wt.: PE 0.8-2.0 

Configuration: 2 pieces offset (butt joint) 

Opponents: Amazon Red Tail Catfish, and Asian Red 

Tail Catfish

ecial - Signature Rod 

There are lots of signature series 

products around the fishing world 

endorsed by professional anglers and 

captains. However, it is very seldom 

one comes endorsed by a captain in 

Malaysia. This is rod is one of them, 

endorsed by none other than the crazy 

hardcore jigging captain, Azahar of 

Pekan (a coastal town on the east coast 

of the Malaysian Peninsular). 

37

Crazy Ha

39 

rdcore 

Yes, crazy hardcore! Azahar is a well 

known old salt here in Malaysia. Anglers 

who frequent Pekan would most 

likely have heard of him. He is known 

to have broken even the most durable 

of fishing tackle with his hardcore fishing 

activities and style. Being such an 

angler he does have in mind the type 

of rods that he finds most suitable to 

fish in waters that he is familiar with.

LightWei 

Picking up the Sinister Azahar Ebek 

Special for the first time I was both delighted 

and surprised. Delighted that 

it felt light and surprised that Azahar 

found such a rod suitable to his fishing. 

I thought he would prefer something 

heavier with a slightly faster tip. 

After fishing with it I now know why. 

* Ebek = Diamond Trevally

ght Fun 

41

Blue And

43 

Sporty 

With a plethora of black or dark coloured 

rods in the market, the Sinister 

Azahar Ebek Special breaks the monotony 

coming in blue with carbon fibre 

wrapped up sportiness. The black 

EVA adds on to the visual cues as well 

as being ergonomically comfortable to 

grip.

Dual P 

The Sinister Azahar Ebek Special rod 

is like a convertible car. When the sun 

is burning, keep the roof up. When 

you want the wind in your hair, let the 

roof down. This rod comes with two 

handles. A longer split EVA handle for 

jigging and a shorter for casting (spinning).

urpose 

45

Field Tes 

The rod looks good and feels great but 

how will it perform? Without a trip out 

to sea I decided to go ahead and test the 

rod at my usual testing grounds, the Exotic 

Fishing Pond in Rawang, Malaysia, the 

coliseum where angling gladiators fight a 

host of monsters such as the Amazon red 

tail catfish to the giant Mekong catfish of 

the land of smiles, Thailand. 

*The rod has proven itself out at sea after 

the time of writing.

47 

t 

Reel: Ryobi Mini Power 500 

Line (1): Monofilament 8lb 

Leader: Eagle Claw (monofilament) 14lb 

Line (2): Berkley Fireline Fused 20lb 

Leader: Berkley Vanish 20lb

Superb Caster

49 

I cast out baits on two different lines during 

the test. First was an 8lb monofilament 

line since it’s a PE0.8-2 rated rod. 

It cast superbly well with such a light line 

but unfortunately I lost two fishes due to 

line stretch + a forgiving tip making it impossible 

to set the hook. 

I then removed the 8lb line and filled 

with 20lb fused line and 20lb fluorocarbon 

leader. The rod still cast really well 

giving me (and another tester) very good 

distances casting out baits averaging 12 

grams... and we started catching fish.

Shock Absorbers 

Every rod has some shock absorbing 

qualities and so does the Sinister Azahar 

Ebek Special. When a fish hits, this rod 

takes up shock to about 20% of its length 

(from the tip) first without much pressure 

on the fish. It then piles on the pressure to 

about 40% (from tip) and that is where we 

feel the backbone start to work. 

51

Subduing Monsters 

Being rated with a maximum power of 

20lb we were able to bully most fishes 

dragging them out of the danger zones 

with relatively high drag settings. Needless 

to say we didn’t fight any ebeks but we 

fought rather big Amazon red tail catfishes 

and they are good fighters. On average 

we pressured the Sinister Azahar Ebek 

Special to about 55% length from tip before 

tiring out the fish.

LAB Test

57 

Reel: Abu Garcia Promax Spinning 

Line: Berkley Fireline Fused 

Poundage: 20lb 

Back at our lab we put the Sinister Azahar 

Ebek Special through a pressure test 

to see how much pressure it can take. For 

this test we decided to measure the bend 

sections. We noticed that power kicks in 

at about 40% curve from the tip registering 

about 5lb and continued all the way 

up to 16lb and that is when we enter into 

scary territory.

59 

Go Or Not To Go On 

We pulled further back a little but the meter 

didn’t move and we were somewhat 

worried. We contemplated forcing the 

rod further and we decided not to. We feel 

that we have reached the peak (power efficiency 

peak). We may be able to squeeze 

out an additional 4lb but risk breaking the 

rod.

Power Curve 

Rod Bend 

% 

5 

10 

20 

30 

40 

50 

60 

70 

80 

90 

100 

5lb 

7lb 

9lb 

11lb 

13lb 

15lb 

16lb 

Backbone Power Range

61 

Backbone Power Range (lb) 

20 

18 

16 

14 

12 

10 

8 

6 

4 

2 

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 

Tip Rod Bend % Butt

Verdict 

Built Quality 

Finishing 


Balance 

Weight 


Castability 

Sensitivity 

Power 

Rating: 8.5

The Rod Ford Sinister Azahar Ebek Special 

one rod that Malaysian angler’s can be 

proud off. It is a signature rod designed in 

collaboration with Azahar, the hardcore 

jigging captain. More importantly is that 

it is light weight, looks good, casts well, 

and manages the fight well. 

The lows would be its somewhat forgiving 

tip that makes hook setting difficult 

especially if you’re using monofilament 

lines with relatively good stretch / absorption. 

My recommendation will be to use 

braided lines or very close to zero stretch 

monofilament with this rod, and have 

loads of fun. 

63

Test Drives 

Rod Ford Lust - Area Master 

Philemon Foo 

Testing Grounds: Lake Prima (Selangor, Malaysia) 

Series: Lust 

Model: RFL622ULX-S 

Length: 6’2” 

Lure Wt.: 2-9g 

Line Wt.: 2-10lb 

Configuration: 2 pieces 

Opponents: Red Devil Cichlid, Peacock Bass, Catfish

Lust is an emotion or feeling of intense 

desire in the body... 

Lust can certainly be for anything. 

Despite the sexy silhouette of a Bond 

(as in James Bond) girl sitting on her 

hiney, I am going to take the Rod Ford 

Lust as a rod lusting for some action; 

I meant light fun fishing action and 

not any other whippee whoopee sort 

of thing. 

67

For Ultra li

69 

ght Anglers 

The Lust is made for anglers that enjoy 

carrying knives to a gun fight. It is 

not about winning the fight but evading 

bullets, leaping behind barrels at 

super speeds, and throwing the knife 

from whatever place or angle so accurately 

that it knocks out the opponent 

upon impact. Well, maybe not like that 

exactly but there is a lot of fun challenging 

reasonably big fishes on very 

light tackle; like the handicap scoring 

system in golf.

Classic Sexi 

The Lust is certainly one of those rods 

with cosmetics that are done just right 

without being overbearing nor under 

designed. It comes in a pleasing matte 

green and pearl white colours with 

black and gold threads. Its blank is 

slim leading all the way down to its ergonomically 

contoured EVA handles.

ness 

71

No 

There are a lot of ultra-light tackle rods 

that are made like noodles (there are 

noodle rods for your info.), however, 

the Lust is not one of them. The blank 

is designed with a butt section using 

graphite with a high carbon content 

giving it stiffness and power while the 

tip is graphite with higher glass fibre 

content for its whippy sexiness (slow 

action). 

Such a system allows for great amounts 

of absorption should the hard fighting, 

bait stealing, finned monster decides 

to drop gear and engage turbo, allowing 

time for the line and reel to coordinate 

reducing the chances of breakage. 

Yet, giving good amounts of power to 

play the fish instead of just having a 

line connected to the fish without capability 

of doing anything else.

t A Noodle 

73

Fuji In Use

When it comes to ultra-light fishing I 

personally prefer rods equipped with 

good quality Fuji components especially 

its guides and reel seats. With 

very thin lines in use, a guide that dissipates 

heat the fastest (most efficiently) 

simply enhances the angler’s chance of 

winning by reducing line damage and 

burst off. Fuji guides have proven to 

do just that (dissipate heat fast). 

75

Field Testin 

Reel: Shimano Nasci 

Line: HI-SEAS White Lightning 6lb 

Leader: Unknown

g 

77

Easy Caster 

Lusting for distance I stood on a boat in 

the middle of Lake Prima in Puchong, 

Selangor (Malaysia) with the Lust in 

hand and whipped out 1” and 1.5” soft 

plastics attached to little jigheads (total 

weight about 2.5 to 3 grams). The 

Lust can certainly cast light weights 

giving good distances. Of course the 

thin 6lb mono played a part too, no 

doubt about it but the Lust can certainly 

cast. 

79

ish Fighting 

Well, I didn’t catch anything gigantic 

but with its whippy tip and power 

stored in its butt section, playing the 

red devils become serious fun. None 

of them were above a kilogram but 

still they gave a good and fun fight 

running into snags . The Lust is forgiving 

enough allowing them to run but 

when the curve reaches the butt section, 

pressure builds up and they can 

no longer run. I had copious amounts 

of fun. 

81

Lab Torture 

Reel: Abu Garcia Promax 2500H 

Line: Berkley Big Game 

Poundage: 15lb 

We put the Lust through the pressure 

test to get its power range and to see 

if it will be able to achieve its rated 

2-10lb. 

The Lust started engaging power at 

about 40% curve at about 2lb and easily 

reached 10lb at about 90% curve 

(10% from butt / fore EVA grip) without 

any acoustics and scary feeling. 

With confidence we pushed on until 

we touched about 11.5lb and decided 

to stop giving it the thumbs up.

Power Curve 

Rod Bend 

% 

5 

10 

20 

30 

40 

2lb 

50 

60 

70 

80 

90 

4lb 

6lb 

8lb 

10lb 

11.5lb 

100 

Backbone Power Range

85 

Backbone Power Range (lb) 

20 

18 

16 

14 

12 

10 

8 

6 

4 

2 

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 

Tip Rod Bend % Butt

89 

Verdict 

If you are going shop to shop asking 

for 2lb lines and settling for 6lb because 

2lb are not easy to come by, this 

here is the rod for you. It is like the 

iconic Fiat 500 in the motoring world. 

It is not made to win F1 races. It is 

made for the sake of having fun. Thus 

the Lust is certainly a fun rod and it 

can most certainly whip... err... your 

light tiny little lures out and help you 

win fights. 

Built Quality 

Finishing 


Balance 

Weight 


Castability 

Sensitivity 

Power 

Rating: 8

Pflueger Purist (Pf 

Model # saP # Capacity: Mono Capacity: braid Max Drag Gear Ratio Inches-P 

1325 1265678 115 yards / 4 lb. 145 yards / 6 lb. 8 lb. 5.2:1 22. 




• 9 stainless steel ball bearings 

• On/Off instant anti-reverse bearing 

• Lightweight Hybrid construction provides the strength of an aluminum 

body without the weight 

• Machined ported and double anodized aluminum spool 

• Smoothed sealed carbon fiber drag system 

• Solid Aluminum Bail Wire 

• Sure-click bail provides an audible signal when bail is fully opened and 

ready to cast 

• Anti-twist titanium line roller 

• Convertible Left and Right hand retrieve 

Hybrid Body System 

The Hybrid Body System uses both aluminum and graphite 

body components to provide the best of both worlds. 


No. 5-1, Jalan Setia Dagang U13/AJ, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, 


lueger Purist) 

10 

er-Turn Weight 

4 7.3 oz. 

2 8.6 oz. 

4 10.3 oz. 

2 11.3 oz. 

Malaysia. 

91

Test Drives 

Ryobi Mini Power 

Model Tested 

Series: Mini Power 

Model: 500 

Testing Grounds: Exotic Fishing Pond 

Opponents: Amazon Red Tail Catfish, 

and Asian Red Tail Catfish

Philemon Foo 

93

Light tackle fishing is fun. Small reels, 

thin rods, thin lines, and small lures; all 

the things to spice up one’s fishing. What 

if we were to take one a small reel, mismatch 

it onto a bigger rod, and throw it 

into a fight with big fishes? Why not? So 

we did... More on that later.

Small Wonder

The Ryobi Mini Power is a small well 

built reel with the body, plates, etc. being 

built of a material called NCRT of 

which is a Titanium + Carbon material 

that is claimed to be 20% lighter and 

40% stronger than normal plastics. This 

give the Mini Power good amounts of 

rigidity felt especially at the stem and 

side plates. 

97

Looking Neat & To

99 

ugh 

The Mini Power looks neat and tough 

with its oversized bail-wire that looks 

like a kangaroo bar of a 4WD vehicle (ratio 

to size). The bail-wire hints to what 

the Mini Power can handle and when 

we see such hints, we want to know if 

it can indeed handle what it hints it can 

handle.

Smooth Performa

101 

nce 

The Mini Power is a smooth performer. 

It comes with a smooth drag without 

any sticky feeling. Crank the handle 

and feel the smooth rotation of the rotor 

with hints of light gear feel. Balance 

wise, it feels okay with slight wobble.

LAB Test 

Rod: Rod Ford Sinister Azahar Ebek 

Special 

Model: RFSN632/592S-LJ 

Power: Light Jig 

Line Wt.: PE 0.8-2.0 

Line: Berkley Fireline Fused 20lb

103

105 

Pressure Test 

Back at our lab we put the Mini Power 

through a pressure test to see how much 

it can take. It claims to have a modest 

maximum drag of 3kg or 6.6lb. We gave 

it a little push and it very easily touched 

3kg. The drag remain very smooth at 

3kg. Since we could still increase the 

drag we decided to do so. Lo and behold 

we managed to squeeze 11.5lb (5.2kg) 

out of it. 

I do agree with Ryobi’s claim of 3kg. 3kg 

would probably be the best or optimum 

pressure for the Mini Power to be set 

at. At such a pressure the drag remains 

smooth, the bail-arm and rotor does not 

flex till the point of feeling weak, and 

the reel still has power to crank in fish 

without feeling clumsy.

Field Test 

Rod: Rod Ford Sinister Azahar Ebek Special 

Model: RFSN632/592S-LJ 

Power: Light Jig 

Line Wt.: PE 0.8-2.0 

Line (1): Monofilament 8lb 

Leader: Eagle Claw (monofilament) 14lb 

Line (2): Berkley Fireline Fused 20lb 

Leader: Berkley Vanish 20lb

107

Being a reel made for light tackle fishing 

we decided to mismatch it with a 

light jigging rod (still in the light category 

right?) and fish it at our usual testing 

pond, the Exotic Pond in Rawang 

(Selangor, Malaysia). We started with 

8lb mono but gave up on it due to difficulties 

of setting the hook due to line 

stretch. We lost a few fishes initially.

109

111

Mismatching 

We decided to remove most of the 8lb 

monofilament and reeled in 20lb braided 

line from another reel we tested that 

day. Such mismatching could mean 

two things. One, we run out of line as 

we could not put in much line. Two, 

we break the reel as the line breaking 

strength is a lot more than what the reel 

can handle. 

We set the drag to about a turn before 

the maximum / lock and cast out the 

bait. We were battling Asian Red Tail 

Catfishes and Amazon Red Tail Catfishes, 

and the Mini Power performed really 

well. Smooth drag but enough to tire 

out the brute fast and more than enough 

cranking power to bring it to reel in the 

limited amounts of braided line.

113

115 

Verdict 

The Ryobi Mini Power is a small powerhouse 

of a reel that allows for lots of 

fun and yet has enough power to manage 

larger opponents that may seem 

to be too big for it to handle... somewhat 

like the David & Goliath fight. 

If you’re into light tackle fishing, this 

powerhouse is something to consider. 

Attributes 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 X 

Built quality 


Weight 

Smoothness Rotation 

Drag Smoothness 

Drag Strength 

Bail-arm Toughness 

Line Management 

Speed (Retrieve) 

Balance 

Power 

Rating: 7

Published Informa 

Sizes: 500 & 800 

Max Drag: 3kg 

Gear Ratio: 5.2:1 

Weight: 165g 

Ball Bearings: 6+1 

Line Cap.: 500 (0.131mm dia. - 210m) / 

800 (0.165mm dia. - 175m) 

Features: NCRT Material, waterproof 

drag knob, stainless steel thread bailarm, 

Hi-intensity titanium main shaft.

tion 

117

The Fastest Grow 



Email your videos to oagwsb@gmail. 

com together with your name, contact 

number, and addresss. Open to all 

citizens of Malaysia & Brunei. 


No. 5-1, Jalan Setia Dagang U13/AJ, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam 


119 

ing Lure Brand In America 

Want A Reward For 

Catching Fish? 

Shoot a video of you catching a fish on any 

ZMAN Lure saying “Yeah! ZMAN!“ and we’ll 

send you packet of ZMAN lures for free. 

, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.

Test Drives 

Okuma’s Knight: The Mig

121 

hty Azores Philemon 

Foo 

Series: Azores 

Model: Z-65S 

Testing Grounds: Exotic Fishing Pond 

Opponents: Amazon Red Tail Catfish, 

and Asian Red Tail Catfish

123 

The Mighty Knight 

In last year’s ICast Okuma brought 

out on a stallion its knight, the Azores. 

The Azores is a powerful reel made to 

subdue saltwater giants bringing them 

down to their knees, I meant tails. 

How well does it do this? Well, we are 

about to find out.

A Spinning Beginn

ing 

Okuma’s beginnings are in spinning 

reels and over the years they have developed 

better and better reels. The 

Azores is born out of all these years of 

experiences and improvements along 

the way and just by the feel and looks 

alone one can tell that within its dull 

metallic grey body lies a very serious 

powerhouse. 

125

The Knight And Hi 

Picking up the Azores one can feel 

its weight. The armour is no light toy, 

and inside this armour sits a powerful 

knight ready to take on any battle. 

The Azores feels super tough refusing 

to flex at its weakest points such as the 

stem thanks to its rigid aluminium 

die-cast body and plates giving it this 

otherworldly toughness.

s Armour 

127

The rotor and bail-arm feels seriously 

tough too with a super thick bail-arm 

wire held together by tough, solid, and 

rigid bail-arms. Being rigid is a seriously 

good thing especially when the 

opponent is tougher than nails, perhaps 

somewhat stronger than an ox, 

and can move at speed cheetah’s only 

dream of. 

Check

out That Muscle 

129

Power and More P 

The language of power encapsulates 

the entire reel from the stem to the 

bail-arms on to the body all the way 

to the handle. The Azores is equipped 

with a seriously rigid and solid handle. 

At its end site a huge handle knob that 

sits perfectly in my hands. This power 

handle is made to crank up monsters. 

I may seem to be exaggerating 

and I would like to highlight the word 

SEEM.

ower 

131

Test Of Power 

When you’ve got so much power in 

your hands what do you do? Test them 

out of course. To do that we head to 

our secret lair where we have tortured 

many warriors of such and quite a few 

who look the part but cannot play the 

part have come to eternal rest.

133

Lab Test 

Rod: Penn Defiance (Boat Rod) 

Model: PDBC601XH A 

Power: Extra Heavy (XH) 


Line: Berkley Big Game 

Poundage: 40lb

135

Under Pressure 

The Azores has a max drag rated at 

40lb. With that in mind we plugged 

it up to our nasty drag pressure meter 

and started the torture process. The 

drag flowed smoothly all the way till 

it passed the last readable number on 

our meter and continued. Its smoothness 

begin dipping at about 38lb but we 

still had not maxed out yet. It maxed 

out at about 44lb (4lb above rated).

137

139 

Field Test 

Rod: Abu Garcia Tournament K 

Model: TKS602H A 

Power: Heavy 


Line: Berkley Fireline Fused 20lb 

Leader: Berkley Vanish 20lb 

To see how well this knight performs in battle 

we took it to the Exotic Pond in Rawang 

(Selangor, Malaysia) where monsters lay in 

wait for a ferocious battle. Before going on, 

I want to make known that the Azores is a 

saltwater class reel made for much larger 

and harder fighting fishes and we are testing 

it here just to get a feel of its performance.

Contr

141 

olling Dictator 

I had the drag up to about 60% and 

waited for a brute to bite. It didn’t take 

long before I was locked in battle. The 

rod bent and I set the hook. To test the 

power of the Azores I got into a steady 

/ stable stance, placed the rod butt on 

my tummy, proceeded to tighten the 

drag slowly. To cut a long story short, 

the Azores’ drag didn’t need maxing 

out and we were literally dragging in 

brutes ala tug-of-war.

143 

What Else... 

The Azores performed well having a 

powerful drag bullying fishes. During 

the tug-of-war with the brutes, no flex 

was felt and this is just how tough the 

reel is. It is well balanced with close 

to zero wobbliness. It certainly is not 

the lightest not is it the smoothest reel 

in the market but then again it is not 

priced at the levels of Mercedes Benz 

type reels.

145

147

149

151

153 

Verdict 

The Okuma Azores is all about power and toughness. 

Its playground is certainly out at sea or perhaps 

at freshwater ponds where huge giant Mekong 

Catfish lay in wait to show off some muscles and 

perhaps drag an angler or two into the water. So, if 

you enjoy bullying fishes and fish mainly by flexing 

your muscles, don’t give the Azores a miss. 

Attributes 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 X 

Built quality 


Weight 

Smoothness Rotation 

Drag Smoothness 

Drag Strength 

Bail-arm Toughness 

Line Management 

Speed (Retrieve) 

Balance 

Power 

Rating: 8.5

Watch A Video 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZlD1JCteIo

155 

Published Information 

• DFD: Precision Dual Force Drag system 

• Precision click drag adjustment for more precise settings 

• Multi-disc, Carbonite and felt drag washers for DFD 

• 6HPB + 1RB corrosion resistant stainless steel bearings 

• Quick-Set anti-reverse roller bearing plus ratchet system 

• Dual anti-reverse system for maximum security 

• Precision machine cut brass pinion gear 

• CRC: Corrosion-resistant coating process 

• HDGII: Corrosion-resistant, High density gearing 

• ALC: Rigid diecast aluminum body, sideplate and rotor 

• MSS: carbon Mechanical Stabilizing System 

• Machined aluminum, 2-tone anodized spool with LCS lip 

• Machined aluminum handle arm for added strength 

• Hydro Block water tight drag seal 

• Heavy duty, solid aluminum bail wire

Zenith POWER SOFT FL 

More durable than 

normal nylon lines 

Handles 

knots well 

Extremely 

Smooth 


No. 27, Jalan IMJ 4, Taman Perindustrian Malim Jaya, 75250 Melaka, Malays 

Tel: +606-334 4555 Fax: +606 336 2211 Mobile: +6012 631 3561 (Whatsap 


157 

IGHT FLUORO NYLON 

Good shock 

absorption quality 

Handles 

abrasion well 

High quality 

leader 

ia. 

p available) Email: enquiry@brilliant-tackle.com

New Launches 

The Asian Angler / Mr Bassin’ 

Abu Garcia Sapphire Cr 

Anglers who’ve been stung by the travel 

bug, I bring you good news. Abu Garcia 

recently launched a series of travel rods 

and this here is one of them, the 10 feet 

Sapphire Crest.

159 

est 

Series: Sapphire Crest 

Model: Spinning 3m 

Length: 10’ / 3m 

Lure Wt.: 35g 

Line Wt.: Not Specified 

Configuration: 3 pieces - Travel Rod

Classic European Design

One look at the Sapphire Crest and 

one can tell that it has its roots in Europe. 

It’s simple basic and classic design 

cues gives it that distinct look 

coupled with the high quality cork 

handles and butch looking blank. 

161

IM6 Blank

The Sapphire Crest comes with an 

IM6 Carbon Graphite blank giving 

it sturdiness and being a 10 feet long 

rod, this is an important factor. The 

tip is not whippy and it can certainly 

cast baits to very good distances with 

good amounts of control as tested recently 

at a Pak Din Freshwater Fishing 

Pond in Bukit Antarabangsa, Kuala 

Lumpur. 

163

Lightweight & Strong G

165 

uides 

The Sapphire Crest comes with the 

SS304 guide system that is said to be 

20 time tougher than normal guides 

and about 55% lighter in weight. It 

certainly allows line to flow through 

them pretty smoothly. 

*As of time of writing no fish were 

fought / caught on this rod.

Comes With Tube 

For more information contact Pure Fishing Malaysia at: Tel : +603 7832 3380 

or email info@my.purefishing.com

The Sapphire Crest comes with a nice 

looking cordura tube with separated 

segment giving each piece its own 

space protecting them from hitting 

against each other’s guides of which 

could cause damage especially during 

travel. 

167

New Launches 


Note: Products in this section have not been tested b 

Pflueger Microspin 

If you are into ultra light tackle 

fishing or finesse fishing, this 

Pflueger Microspin UL reel is one to 

consider. It looks and feels good with 

a gold coloured spool and whitish 

beige coloured graphite body.

y The Asian Angler magazine 

169

Light Weight & Smooth

As with many ultra light tackle reels, 

the Microspin UL is light weight 

and feels balanced. It is also a pretty 

decent performer with smooth rotation 

and drag that maxes out at 6lb of 

which is great for ultra light fishing. 

171

Wooden Handle Knob 

The Microspin UL comes with a 

wooden handle knob that gives it the 

classic look. The wooden knob not 

only enhances its looks, it also gives 

it a classic feel.

173

Wooden Handle Knob

175 

BRAID CAPACITY YD/LB: 130/6 

BRAID CAPACITY M/MM: 

140/0.13 90/0.20 45/0.23 

ANTI-REVERSE FEATURE: Instant 

Anti-Reverse 

Bearings: 4 

RETRIEVE RATE: 19.6 

MAX DRAG LB: 6 

REEL SIZE: 20 

For more information contact OAG 

Worldwide at Tel : +603-3358 6003 or 

email oagwsb@gmail.com

New Launches 



Pflueger Arbor 

Line comes off Pflueger’s large 

arbor spool in larger coils, ensuring 

less memory in your superline and 

taming the most stubborn fluorocarbon 

lines. The Hybrid aluminum/ 

graphite construction contributes 

strength, while keeping weight to a 

minimum.


177

8 Bearing System - Corrosion resistant 

stainless steel ball bearings 

Hybrid Body - Aluminum body with a 

graphite body cover, lightweight strength 

Aluminum Spool - Lightweight, durable, 

spool design 

Sealed Carbon Drag - Sealed system, always 

lubricated, always smooth 

Aluminum Handle - Aircraft grade aluminum 

handle, extreme durability 

Large Arbor Design - Large arbor reel increases 

casting distance and minimizes line 

twist 

Soft Touch Knob - Soft touch rubber knob 

provides excellent grip and comfort 

Models Available 

7435 

7450 

For more information contact OAG 

Worldwide at Tel : +603-3358 6003 or 

email oagwsb@gmail.com

179

New Launches 



ZMAN Pop ShadZ

181 


Constructed of high floating, 10X 

Tough ElaZtech material, this first-of-itskind 

soft plastic surface popper sports a 

cupped face that pops, spits, and chugs 

along the surface for maximum fish-calling 

attraction. Buoyant enough to float 

even a heavy gauge hook, its baitfish profile 

accurately mimics a number of freshand 

saltwater forage species.

183

185

Watch A Video 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hz0cnbRdpho 

For more information contact OAG Worldwide at Tel : +603-3358 6003 

or email oagwsb@gmail.com

187 

Features 

• Unique soft plastic popper design thanks to super buoyant 

ElaZtech material 

• Cupped face and side-to-side walking movement creates 

strike-provoking surface action 

• For best results, rig weedless with a heavy wire 4/0 or 5/0 

offset EWG style hook 

• Ideal for a number of fresh- and saltwater species, including 

bass, pike, stripers, snook, redfish, seatrout, and more! 

• 10X Tough withstands violent surface strikes and being 

ripped through surface cover 

• 5” length, 3 baits per pack, available in 8 vibrant topwater 

colors

New Launches 



ZMAN Finesse Shroom 

Designed to be paired with the 

Finesse TRD, Finesse ShadZ, or Hula 

StickZ to create the perfect Ned Rig, 

the Finesse ShroomZ jighead sport 

a custom wire keeper welded onto 

the hook shank that not only makes 

rigging a breeze, but holds ElaZtech 

baits securely without the need for 

gluing. The unique keeper, coupled 

with the extreme durability of 10X 

Tough ElaZtech, creates a near bulletproof 

package that will fish-afterfish 

for hours on-end without the 

need for re-rigging.

189 


Z

191

Features 

• Designed for Midwest finesse style fishing, aka 

the Ned Rig 

• Ideal for use with any small ElaZtech baits 

• Unique wire keeper is welded directly to the hook 

shank to make rigging simple and hold ElaZtech 

baits securely 

• Mushroom-shaped head blends seamlessly into 

finesse baits and is preferred by top finesse fishermen 

• Built around premium, high carbon black nickel 

hooks 

• Available in 1/15, 1/10, and 1/6 oz weights for a 

variety of finesse scenarios, both deep and shallow 

• Offered in 4 colors, 5 jigheads per pack 



193

New Launches 



ZMAN Finesse TRD 

The Finesse TRD (The Real Deal) 

is designed specifially for the Midwest 

finesse style of fishing, more 

commonly known as the Ned Rig, 

which has been gaining momentum 

nationwide as a subtle and easy-tomaster, 

yet amazingly effective, presentation. 

While savvy anglers have 

been modifying ElaZtech baits for 

years to create perfect baits for Midwest 

finesse fishing, the TRD possesses 

the ideal finesse profile in a 

ready-to-fish package. A softer ElaZtech 

formulation and custom salt 

content allow the TRD to exhibit the 

precise sink rate, lifelike action, and 

irresistible feel that expert finesse 

anglers have learned result in longer 

holds and increased hook-up ratios.


195

197

199



201 

Features 

• Specially designed for increasingly popular Midwest finesse 

technique, aka the Ned Rig 

• Custom ElaZtech formulation and salt content to provide 

the ideal sink rate, lifelike feel, and unique flutter desired by 

top finesse fishermen 

• Dimpled texture provides an increased realistic feel 

• Designed to be fished on Finesse ShroomZ jighead 

• Very easy to fish, perfect for beginners and children 

• Employed by tournament fishermen in tough conditions 

• Effective on a variety of species including largemouth, 

smallmouth, spotted bass, bream, crappie, white bass, drum, 

catfish, walleye, and more! 

• Super tough ElaZtech construction 

• 2.75” in length, available in 8 colors

VFOX Robinson RB-04M 

New Launches 



Looking for a case to put you 

terminal tackle? The all new VFOX 

Robinson RB-04M Case is one to 

consider. It comes with high quality 

plastic and it is built tough to withstand 

all types of weather. It is waterproof 

and will keep your terminal 

tackle dry should it fall into the water 

or should you get caught in a heavy 

downpour.

203 


Case

The Robinson RB-04M looks really 

good being well designed and it 

comes with rubber footings to reduce 

sliding. Inside the case are compartments 

that are adjustable to fit your 

terminal tackle, and these compartments 

are protected by clear plastic 

covers that stops them from dropping 

into other compartments.

205

For more information call Brilliant Tackle at +6 06 334 4555 or visit 

their website at www.brilliant-tackle.com

The clear covers are spring loaded 

and will flip open when you unlock 

the latch. Being clear also allows you 

to see what you have in each compartment 

without having to open up 

the covers only to find out that you 

have got the wrong compartment 

open. 

207

New Launches 



VFOX Fishing Lip Grip 

Fishing lip grips are essential 

these days. The VFOX Fishing Lip 

Grip FLG-09 is a high quality fishing 

lip grip that is well designed and 

looks really good. It is made of aluminium 

giving it the lightweight feel 

and strength.

209 


FLG-09

It comes with a rubber grip that allows 

you a firm and good grip without 

reducing the slippage especially 

with the weight of a large fish at the 

other end.

211

The FLG-09 uses a trigger to open 

and close the clamps making it easy 

to manage especially when you’ve 

got a fish by the water wanting to get 

away while your other hand is holding 

on to your fishing rod, as you try 

to insert the clamp of the lip grip into 

the fishes mouth.

213

To help ensure that the lip grip is not 

lost the FLG-09 comes with a spring 

type lanyard with a carabineer that 

can be attached to your belt or to any 

area that is convenient and comfortable 

to you. 



215

New Launches 



VFOX Reel Bag SBR-20 

We spend good amounts of 

money on our fishing equipment 

and it is important that we keep 

them safe and that includes out fishing 

reels. VFOX recently launched 

the VFOX Reel Bag SBR-2001 M for 

round reels.

217 


01 M

The SBR-2001 M is made of neoprene 

which give some protection. It 

has absorption properties that absorb 

shock and at the same time protects 

the reel from damage. It is also easy 

to put on as it uses Velcro straps to 

secure reels in place.

219



221

New Launches 



VFOX SBR Rod Bag SB 

The VFOX SBR Rod bags are 

designed to keep you rods safe especially 

during transportation. They 

act as protective shell made of EVA. 

Many a times rods are damaged during 

transportation when they hit 

against something hard. The VFOX 

SBR Rod Bags are made to eliminate 

such damage.

223 


RB-3068 & 2068

VFOX SBR rods bags come in various 

lengths and configuration. One 

uses a flip type cover with a Velcro 

strap that straps around the flip to 

keep the rod within safe and secured. 

The other uses a zip that zips all the 

way from one end to the other. It 

opens up all the way. The one with 

the zip comes with a strap as well for 

easy or convenient carrying about. 

225


their website at www.brilliant-tackle.com 

227

Introducin’ 


What A Case 

VFOX Robinson 

When it comes to cases 

for your terminal tackle such 

as swivels, snaps, hooks, split 

shots, etc. there are quite a few 

in the market but this case, the 

VFOX Robinson RB-04M certainly 

takes the cake. If I were 

to be a secret agent, this would 

be the kind of case that I will be 

fishing with.

RB-04M 

229

Well Designe

231 

d 

When it comes to such cases, 

most of them are just normal 

plastics with a cover, and that’s 

about it. Most of them are purpose 

built and thus look boring 

most of the time. The Robinson 

RB-04M is designed really well 

somewhat like a weapons case 

or a case someone would keep 

plutonium in.

Good Locking 

When it comes to such cases, 

most of them are just normal 

plastics with a cover, and that’s 

about it. Most of them are purpose 

built and thus look boring 

most of the time. The Robinson 

RB-04M is designed really well 

somewhat like a weapons case 

or a case someone would keep 

plutonium in.

Mechanism 

233

Spring Opera

235 

ted Covers 

Open up the case and you will see 

more covers. Push on the latches 

and the covers spring open. All 

covers work this way giving the 

Robinson RB-04M a very classy 

look and feel. What’s more important 

is that each individual 

compartments are sealed really 

quite tightly. Hooks and small 

snaps will not be able to travel to 

other compartments freely.

Adjustable Co 

The compartments are adjustable 

by removing the separators. 

Should you have a need to bring 

along longer or larger hooks, 

snaps, etc. all that needs to be 

done is to remove the needed 

separators to make the compartments 

larger. This adds to practicality.

mpartments 

237

Waterproof

239 

Goodness 

Another thing that I like about 

the Robinson RB-04M is that 

it is waterproof. A rubber goes 

around the rim of the case and 

when the case is shut tight, the 

rubber blocks water from sipping 

in keeping our hooks, 

snaps, etc. safe and dry inside.

Conclusion 

The VFOX Robinson RB-04M 

looks great and feels really good. 

It has the feel of up market higher 

priced cases. What’s great is 

how it works and it is certainly 

a case that will like to have with 

me on my fishing expeditions.

241

Introducin’ 


Zaco Crank CF75M

ZACO CF75M bait naturally gives a 

sense of dimensions and impressively reduces 

air resistance. By using a combination 

of tungsten and steel balls for weight 

balance system, ZACO CF75M secures outstanding 

casting distance. 

243

Additionally, it was built with the detailed 

calculation of the optimal lip angle that occurs 

right after the landing. Through these 

excellent designs, it minimizes the reflection 

of light from any angle, and enables wobbling 

action from even subtle movements.

245

Adding rattle inside the body embodies 

a realistic vibration and wavelength that 

a bait fish makes and it delivers to further 

places in order to effectively attract bass. 

The Crank comes with our company’s selfdeveloped 

distinctive colors that have proven 

to catch fish. Crank series adopts durable 

and sharp treble hooks approved by all certificated 

tests.

247

Specifications

249 

Body Length: 75mm (3”) 

Weight: 19g (2/3oz) 

Buoyancy: Floating 

Running Depth: 2 - 3m (6.6 - 9.8ft)

FEATURES 

Best in Class Quality 

Hand Spray Process with Durability 

High Quality Paint with Visuality 

Internal Holographic Foil 

3D Holographic Eyes 

High Strength Treble Hooks 

Tungsten Ball with Long Casting Design 

Glass Rattle Inside 

For more information please refer to: http://www.theoutdoorlure.com/zaco

cf75m/ 

251

Introducin’ 


Zaco Minnow SP70S 

With a carefully designed thin tail part, 

ZACO SP70S reaches the target water level 

in a short period of time. Also, what has 

been put into consideration is the weight 

balance for the sake of improving its carry 

distance. The appropriate balance of wiggling 

and wobbling can easily attract target 

fish.

253

Using a proper line allows suspension time 

for a user to take advantage of. The SP70S 

come with our company’s self-developed 

distinctive colors that have proven to catch 

fish. The SP70S adopts durable and sharp 

treble hooks approved by all certificated 

tests.

255

Specifications 

Body Length: 70mm (2-3/4”) 

Weight: 6.4g (7/32oz) 

Buoyancy: Suspending 16ºC (60ºF) 

Running Depth: 0.7m (2.2ft) 

FEATURES 

Best in Class Quality 

Hand Spray Process with Durability 

High Quality Paint with Visuality 

Internal Holographic Foil 

3D Holographic Eyes 

High Strength Treble Hooks 

Glass Rattle Inside 

For more information please refer to: http://www.theoutdoorlure.com/zaco

cf75m/ 

257

Skill Enhancers 

Fishing With Spoons Part 4 - B

259 

Philemon Foo 

asic Presentations: Let It Fall 

Spoons are so very versatile. There is 

no such thing as only one way to present 

a spoon unless of course you only know 

of one way to do so. I believe that we 

need not discuss casting as I believe all 

of you know how to cast. We’ll focus on 

“fall” also called “drop” action which is 

when the spoon breaks the water’s surface 

and falls to the bottom.

261 

Factors To Note 

There are certain general factors that we need to consider 

here and they are the size of the spoon, the weight 

of the spoon, and the design. For the purpose of this 

article I will refer to the teardrop designed spoon (being 

a very common spoon).

263 

How these factors affect the spoon is in the way it falls 

or the fall action. Spoons of different weights and sizes 

have different fall actions. Generally larger spoons with 

larger surfaces will have wider flutter, wobble, glide, 

etc. as compared to smaller spoons. 

Lighter spoons may not drop slower than larger heavier 

spoons as lighter spoons usually have smaller surface 

areas and thus may drop faster due to lower amounts 

of resistance from the water. Smaller spoons usually 

have narrower flutter and shorter glides. Spoons of different 

sizes also gives out different acoustics (noises) 

and bubble trails underwater.

265 

Indirect 

Factors 

The indirect factors include the weight of the hook 

used, hook type (single or treble hook), weight of accessories 

used such as swivels and snaps, as well as the 

buoyancy of the lines (leader and main) used.

267 

Tank Tested 

Spoons 

Most spoons(those that go through tank testing) are 

tested with the hook that it comes with. Most of the 

time we change these hooks to better hooks or hooks 

that we are comfortable with such as single hooks, and 

doing so may change the action of the spoon.

269 

Balancing 

Issues 

Changing the weight and size of the swivel and snap 

does affect the spoon’s action too. Using heavier or 

lighter swivels and snaps will shift the weight in either 

direction (towards the swivel and snap or away which 

is usually towards the hook).

271 

Line Buoyancy 

Leaders and mainlines used have a certain degree of 

buoyancy. Braided lines tend to float. Fused lines and 

monofilament lines will sink at various rates. The fastest 

sinking lines are fluorocarbon lines and certain 

new technological advanced fused lines. All lines have 

different sink rates. Line diameters too affect sink rate. 

These too effects the action of the spoon during the 

drop.

273 

Environmental 

Factors 

For those not in the know, saltwater such as the sea, 

does affect spoons differently as compared to freshwater. 

Things tend to have better buoyancy out at sea 

due to saltwater being more condensed as compared 

to freshwater. Then there are also currents to consider 

(rivers and sea) but let us not get too hung up on all 

these.

275 

So What Now? 

With all that we have discussed thus far, my recommendation 

before you make that cast is to first not 

worry too much about what you have no control over. 

Second, drop the spoon in the water in front of you 

and see how it drops (action). 

Take a mental note of its drop rate (speed). Drop the 

spoon about 3 feet from the tip, place the spoon on the 

water’s surface and drop your rod tip to about a feet 

from the water surface while you mentally count how 

long the spoon reaches the bottom (where you feel the 

weight of the spoon on your rod tip). 

Next, drag the spoon left to right or vice versa at different 

speeds to see the different swim actions. This 

will give you an idea of how your spoon will swims 

during the retrieving process of which we will discuss 

in a future article.

277 

Why Is The Fall 

Important? 

Yes, I have fished with many angler who cast out spoons 

and start retrieving right when the spoon hits the water. 

It is not wrong to do so. But many a times fishes 

take spoons during the drop as it makes its way to the 

bottom. As it drops it wobbles, flutters, glides, etc. and 

should there be a nearby fish, chances are it may hit 

your spoon.

279 

Fishing 

Different 

Water 

Columns 

Another reason is to allow your spoon to reach a certain 

depth (water columns) before cranking it back. 

Say for example, you see fishes hanging out at about 

5 feet beneath the water’s surface and you want your 

spoon to swim close to them. What you will have to do 

is to wait for your spoon to drop till it reaches the said 

water column before you retrieve.

281 

Know Your 

Drop Rate 

As mentioned earlier, I highly recommend 

that you test your setup and 

spoon’s drop rate. When you know your 

spoon’s drop rate you can do a mental 

count during the “wait,” somewhat like 

fishing with a countdown lure; for it to 

reach the wanted water column before 

you start retrieving.

283 

When Not To 

Drop 

There are times when allowing your spoon to drop to 

the bottom can be a risky affair and you may not want 

to take that risk. This is when you are casting to areas 

where hard snags like logs are present and you’re using 

treble hooks. Chances of snagging onto a log is really 

quite high and you thus you may decide not to risk it.

Personally I prefer to use single hooks as doing so reduces 

the risk of getting snagged and losing your spoon 

quite significantly. This allows me to fish along snags 

and catch fishes hiding amongst them. Do think about 

your setup as well such as rod power / action, line lb, 

etc. should you decide to cast towards snags. 

285

Pics courtesy of MGFA, Pure Fishing

287 

Conclusion 

To help you remember to allow your 

spoon to drop keep this in mind... Cast, 

Wait, Retrieve. When you are fishing in 

water such as lakes, dams, out at sea, etc. 

you have the option of allowing your 

spoon to drop to the bottom. Unless it 

is really snaggy and you cannot stomach 

the lost of your spoon, try allowing your 

spoon to drop.

Knowledge Wise 

Let’s Talk About B

289 

Philemon Foo 

earings: Part 1 

Bearings, one of the more important factors a 

lot of anglers use to consider how good a reel is. I 

have overheard without intentions of eavesdropping 

that this reel is better because it has more 

bearings than the other one; or you should get 

this reel because it has got more bearings. 

What Are Bearings? 

So, what are bearings? Bearings are in general 

little things that could be shaped like balls or 

cylinders that helps to reduce friction between 

parts. In general that is what bearings really are 

but then why are they so important that anglers 

use them as a means of judging how good a reel 

is?

291 

Fishing And 

Heat 

Our reels work really hard when we fish. It works 

hard when we are casting (bait casting reels especially). 

They work hard when we retrieve our 

lures or baits. They work hard when we are fighting 

fishes. They even work hard when we are 

spooling in lines, removing lines, etc. When they 

work, friction amongst parts creates heat. 

Big game anglers that play with turbocharged 

high performance fishes can attest to how hot 

a reel can get when in battle. Reels have burnt 

with parts inside breaking mid fight. Some reels 

get so hot that they could lightly burn one’s skin. 

Thus you sometimes hear stories of people pouring 

water on their reels mid fight to cool it down. 

Heat is caused by friction.

293 

Why Use 

Bearings? 

First off, I want to make clear that personally I 

am not a believer in the “more bearings is better 

gospel.” I believe that the efficient use of bearings 

is more important than the amount of bearings. 

That said, bearings are super important because 

they help to reduce friction thus reducing reel 

breakage mid fight. They also help with stability 

and balance.

295 

Types Of 

Bearings 

Found In 

Reels 

Inside your fishing reels there are basically 3 

types of bearings and they all have a role to play. 

These bearings are: 

Radial Bearings 

Radial bearings are found on reel shafts that supports 

spools, side plates, handle knobs, etc. They 

allow for smoother operations. When one talks 

about how smooth a reel is, this is one of the contributing 

factors.

297 

One Way Bearings 

One Way Bearings are needle roller clutch bearings 

that are designed to move only in one direction. 

The one way bearing is normally placed at 

the side plate of the handle area. The use of one 

way bearings is as the name suggests, to allow 

smooth movements in one direction. 

Ball Bearings 

Ball bearings are basically balls that are placed at 

places such as the areas that support the shafts in 

certain reels, inside certain handle knobs, to support 

certain worm gears, etc. They are of course 

sound inside radial bearings. 

All these bearings are made using various materials 

such as steel, stainless steel , and ceramic of 

which we will cover in later magazine issues.

299 

Bushings 

Vs. Bearings 

Remember earlier on I said that I am not a believer 

in the gospel of more bearings means better 

reel? The reason is because for certain reels 

more bearings may not be better. One example is 

saltwater reels. Certain parts in saltwater reels are 

more prone to getting wet with saltwater. 

Being corrosive in nature, saltwater can and will 

rust even expensive good quality stainless steel. 

For reasons of such some reel manufacturers use 

bushings instead of bearings for these parts and it 

makes sense maintenance wise.

301 

Simply 

Adding 

Bearings 

Another reason is that there are manufacturer 

who add bearings just for the sake of adding 

bearings to create a better image of their reels 

(some only claim to have that many but actually 

don’t). Doing so brings no benefit but there 

is the additional weight and maintenance issues 

to think about (rusting bearings breaking up and 

causing damage to other parts for example).

303 

High 

Quality Reels 

There are high quality reels with lots of bearings like the 

Shimano Stella that comes with 14+1 bearing. A lot of 

time, effort, and money has gone into making them better 

reels and the bearings used are placed there functionally 

to give one the ultimate of smoothness and feel as well as 

better durability to parts. In such instances I agree wholeheartedly 

with the amounts of bearings needed. 

So Now You Know 

So now you know why bearings are important and having 

more does not always mean better. What’s more important 

is functionality. This article should also give you new 

found respect for your reels. Take care of them well and 

they will in return take care of you.

News Worthy The Asian Angler 

Power 

Collaboration 

Good custom rod builders can build really good rods but 

they may not have enough clout to work with rod factories to 

have them mass produced at a good price point. Rod brands on 

the other hand can make very good rods at affordable prices but 

these rods are normally not as finely tuned as those made by a 

specialized custom rod builder. 

Dream Team 

Recently MGFA (Malaysian Game Fishing Anglers) joined forces 

with a very well known rod builder, Kenny of Extreme Anglers, 

who has build rods for many anglers from many countries 

around the world, and whom himself fishes a lot. This collaboration 

completes a very powerful puzzle bringing finely tuned rods 

to anglers at mass production prices.

305

307 

MGFA 

There are high quality reels with lots of bearings like the 

Shimano Stella that comes with 14+1 bearing. A lot of time, 

effort, and money has gone into making them better reels 

and the bearings used are placed there functionally to give 

one the ultimate of smoothness and feel as well as better 

durability to parts. In such instances I agree wholeheartedly 

with the amounts of bearings needed.

309 

Kenny 

Extreme Anglers 

Kenny is a hardcore angler and have been building custom 

rods for a long time. As the name Extreme Anglers go, Kenny is 

known for building fine tuned rods working with a very sound 

knowledge of blanks, precise guide placements, etc. and has created 

rods to handle extreme fishing.

311 

Having A 

Chat 

We recently had a chat to discover why 

such a collaboration happened and it 

made a lot of sense. First of all, such a collaboration 

will make the country (Malaysia) 

proud and has the potential to change 

the future of fishing. Here is our chat with 

Mak of MGFA & Kenny of Extreme Anglers.

313 

Chat Time 

Why did MGFA decide to collaborate with 

Extreme Anglers? 

MGFA and EXTREME ANGLERS share the same goal and 

vision. Our goal is to build a local brand and make it global. 

We want anglers around the world to recognize Malaysia as 

a country that is able to produce and engineer quality products. 

This to me is the most important element in our partnership. 

To build a brand with international recognition, the core 

product itself needs to be really good and to serve functionality. 

It must be engineered to outperform many and sit 

on par with the best. And finally, innovation is the key for 

survival in a competitive environment and Kenny’s in-depth 

knowledge is our asset to open that door. 

Kenny is the most technically sound person I know in the 

industry, be it about fishing equipment or the sport itself. 

When Kenny talks, he talks with many years of experience. 

He is also very hand-on and is constantly at the forefront of 

changing global trends. He does not derive knowledge from 

GOOGLE or catalogues.

What is the difference between Kenny’s design and the 

others? 

Kenny’s design focuses on functionality while many other rod makers focuses 

more on the form (outlook / design) making them attractive, easy to 

produce, and easy to mass market. 

In our collaboration Kenny will handle the technical parts of building the 

ZEN ZAGAN of which includes the guide system, handle construction, 

blank engineering and material, and the action as well as the power of the 

rod; hence the term CUSTOM STANDARD. 

In Malaysia, there is a lot of misconceived idea about custom rod building. 

Many anglers build custom rods for the sole purpose of owning a piece of 

his favourite rod that no other angler can purchase off the shelf. There are 

also some anglers who chance upon a blank that they like but is not produced 

into a complete rod for them to purchase. They thus purchase the 

blank and have a rod built for them. 

But when it comes to EXTREME ANGLERS, a custom built rod is made to 

outperform mass production rods that are found off the shelves. First off, 

the blank and its character must be made for a certain type of fishing taking 

into consideration the length, the blank action, lb ratings, and materials 

used. 

The next but also very important aspect, something of which many do 

not fully grasp, is the guide settings. Many just follow the Fuji catalogue 

as long as Fuji guides are in use, or they will refer to popular fishing rods 

available in the market to ensure that nothing will go wrong. However, 

these may not always be the best settings for the said rods.

315

Each and every blank has its own character although they may share the 

same length or lb rating, and with different characters one will have to set 

the guides differently to optimize the performance standards of the blank 

according to the fishing application it is built for. 

When both these factors are combined, we get what we call a rod with 

high functionality or an well rounded rod; a rod that is light for its class, 

well balanced, sensitive and responsive to work lures or jigs, and ultimately 

delivers enough power and comfort during battles with fishes. 

What type of jigging rods are local anglers (Malaysian 

anglers) most interested in and what is demanded of 

these rods? 

Most local anglers want their jigging rods to be light, thin or fine (smaller 

in diameter) as they move towards using smaller reel sizes and lower line 

lb. Many anglers have started enjoying the challenges of fighting a big fish 

on smaller tackle as well as the effectiveness of smaller jigs. 

Of course what Malaysian anglers enjoy most is the fight more than anything 

else. We tend to fight hard, fast, and aggressive with high drag settings 

and that sometimes results in rods breaking. Many prefer a rod that 

can take a fair amount of abuse, as well as a rod that allows the angler to 

focus on the fight having full confidence in his tackle giving him zero failure.

317

How many series are there in the new ZEN ZAGAN 

stable? 

5 series – 16 models. These models are: 

SLOW TWITCH – PE 1-3 Standard Jigging / Bottom Rod 

METAL MAYHEM – PE 2-3 Standard Jigging / Bottom Rod 

MICRO MANIA – 0-6-1.5, 0.8-2.0 Micro Jigging – But also able to take 

40gm 

OFFSHORE SHOOTER – Boat casting – Sinking Minnows, Poppers, Spoon 

Good for TENGGIRI, DORADO, GT, QUEENFISH 

SLOW PITCH 6’6” PE 1-3 , PE 2-4 – Slow pitch game 

What are the advantages of the new series? 

The advantages of this new series is the ability to handle many different fishing 

techniques applicable to coastal boat game fishing. Any angler to owns 

a set of Zagan rods is considered fully equipped to fish for many parts of our 

waters. 

Every model shares two common characteristics in its blank construction 

of which are being lightweight and powerful. If you have use any one of the 

models and you like it, I am very confident that you will end up falling for 

the rest.

319

What is the purpose of developing this new series? 

The purpose of this new series is to allow our anglers to fish with using the 

many varieties of techniques that they are exposed to and to give our saltwater 

anglers a fishing rod that is specifically designed for our local conditions, 

techniques, and game fishes. We believe that this will enable our 

anglers to fish better and enjoy the fishing experience better too. 

Many reputable rods in the market are made without focusing on our market 

and our anglers, but their place or country of origin. Therefore they 

may not be the best rods made to handle our game fishes as well as our local 

fishing conditions. 

Will there be further collaboration between MGFA & 

EXTREME ANGLERS to develop new rod series? 

MGFA and EXTREME ANGLERS next collaboration will be the GTZERO 

ready built rods that will be tuned by Kenny. We will also collaborate on a 

new brand of which will be an ongoing project. 

Conclusion 

Well, the future is exciting. I am excited with the possibilities that this collaboration 

will bring to our fishing scene.. Better rods, better performance, 

and better prices. We are patiently awaiting.

321

Highlighting 

VIPER STING (HIGH 

CONSCIOUSNESS) 

With light tackle picking up steam, the 

new Viper Sting rod is poised to give light 

tackle anglers a lot of fun. The Viper Sting 

is lightweight and built tough using high 

quality graphite blanks and thus is able to 

manage many species of fish while not being 

overly rigid thus allowing anglers loads 

of fun.

EST STATE OF 

323

Confident Handling 

The Viper Sting’s EVA is ergonomically designed 

in such away to give you the most 

comfortable of grip while you are fishing. 

Care is also put into the weight of the EVA 

as the Viper Sting is a well balance rod and 

rod balancing is a delicate process, thus it is 

important to ensure that balance is maintained 

despite shaving off weight at the EVA.

325

Quality Built

327 

Viper Sting rods are carbon rods that are 

well designed and sporty being adorned 

with carbon fiber wrap, quality Fuji components, 

high quality EVA handles, and 

quality graphite blank. 

Baitcasting 

VS562MLB 6-12LB 6-17G 

VS561MLB 6-12LB 6-17G 

VS602MLB 6-15LB 6-20G 

VS602MB 8-17LB 7-21G 

VS601MLB 6-15LB 6-20G 

Spinning 

VS602MS 8-17LB 7-21G 

VS662MHS 8-20LB 7-25G 

VS702MHS 10-20LB 10-30G 

For more information contact MGFA at 

+6 07 8619 289

Lucky Draw Contest 

In just four steps and you could win yourself any of the prizes 

below 

1st Prize 

- FX-400N(AccurateReel)-1pc 

2nd Prize - 7435(PfluegerReel)-1pc 

3rd Prize 

- 6930-1pc(PflugerReel)-1pc 

4th to 30th - OAG RM50.00 Voucher for buying Zman products that are 

available in OAG Worldwide Sdn. Bhd. 

All you need to do is to: 

1. Take a photo of your catch using any ZMAN products (must be clearly 

seen). 

2. Download the Lucky Draw Contest Form. 

3. Answer 3 simple questions, place the photo of your catch, and the proof 

of purchase. 

4. Send your entrant to OAG Worldwide Sdn. Bhd. 

No. 5-1, Jalan Setia Dagang U13/AJ, 

Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam, 

Selangor Darul Ehsan, 

Malaysia. 

Tel: +603-3358 6003

1st 

2nd 

3rd 

4th 

Terms & Conditions 

1. This lucky draw contest is open to all citizens of Malaysia and Brunei, except for 

employees / staffs or OAG Worldwide Sdn. Bhd., immediate family members, and 

other parties involved in this contest. 

2. This lucky draw contest will be held two months once starting1st February 2015 

to 31st January 2017. 

3. Participants can send in multiple entries. All entries must include a OAG Halogen 

Sticker that comes on the packaging of all ZMAN products including ZMAN 

soft baits, ZMAN DieZel Spin, Chatterbait, JigheadZ, Shaky HeadZ packaging as 

proof of purchase. All entries are accumulative. 

4. All entries must include personal details. 

* The organizer will not be responsible should prizes sent out not reach the winner 

of the said prize. 

Terms & Conditions continues on the next page. 

329

5. All entries must be complete with photo, answers, OAG Hologram Sticker, 

and personal details. 

6. All entries must reach OAG Worldwide by the 30th of each contest month. 

7. Any incomplete entry and late entries will automatically be disqualified. 

8. All photos submitted will be the property of OAG Worldwide Sdn. Bhd. and 

participating in this lucky draw automatically consents the used of said photographs 

to be used in any legal way by OAG Worldwide Sdn. Bhd. 

9. The organizer reserves the rights to substitute prizes with any other prizes of 

same value should the need arise. 

10. The organizer reserves the rights to change or amend any rules, terms, and 

regulations at any time without prior notice. 

11. Prizes are not transferable or exchangeable for cash. 

12. All decisions made by the organizer are final and no correspondence will be 

entertained. 

Hologram Sticker As Proof Of Purchase

331 

Lucky Draw Contest Form 

Questions: 

Select True or False on the following question: 

a) Zman is USA brand. 

True 

False 

b) Most of the Zman products are made in the USA. 

True 

False 

c) OAG Worldwide Sdn Bhd is the sole distributor of Accurate Fishing Pro 

ducts, and Pflueger Products in Malaysia, and OAG Worldwide Sdn Bhd 

also carries Zman , Smith and Hots Products. 

True 

False 

Personal Information: 

Name (as in NRIC/IC): _________________________________________ 

IC (Identification Card) number: __________________________________ 

Contact Number: _____________________________________________ 

Email Address: _______________________________________________ 

Correspondence Address: ______________________________________ 

______________________________________ 

______________________________________

Stuffs And Goodies 


SOG Knives 

From bluegills in a farm pond to tuna on the high seas, the rewards 

of fishing are when you catch that prized dream fish and when bait fishing 

we need to slice bait sometimes. This fillet knife helps to do just that 

quickly and expertly with a limber, non-stick, SOG sharp stainless steel 

blade designed to transform meat into bait. 

The SOG Fillet Knife is everything you want in a fillet knife. SOG’s purpose-driven 

fillet knife is definitely a keeper. The soft grippy handle and 

the flexible non-stick blade gives you maximum control and comfort 

while filleting. The included hard molded nylon sheath has a built-in 

single-stage sharpener, line cutter, and holes for easy drainage. The SOG 

Fillet Knives come in two blade lengths: 6.0-inch for smaller fish and 7.5- 

inch for your all-purpose fillet use. 

Website: http://www.sogknives.com/ 

Note: This product may not be available in some markets.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kPnD_kw2aY 

333

Columbia North Plain 



An incredible value, this lightweight, versatile shoe delivers performance 

and durability in a package that won’t break the bank. Aggressively lugged rubber 

soles provide superior traction while the waterproof-breathable bootie 

membrane keeps you dry. On top, a combination of suede, textile and webbing 

keeps feet secure and protected. A true all-rounder, this shoe is ideal for a variety 

of trail-based activities from hiking to running. 

CONSTRUCTION: 

• Techlite midsole for lightweight cushioning 

• Omni-Grip rubber for optimal traction on all surfaces 

• Combination suede leather, textile and webbing upper 

• Waterproof-breathable bootie membrane to lock moisture out 

• Aggressive Omni-Grip non-marking rubber lugged outsole 

• Waterproof materials and construction method 

• Weight: size 9, ½ pair = 12.6oz / 357 

Website: http://www.columbia.com/mens-north-plains-waterproof-BM3896.html 


335 

Waterproof Shoes 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnMc2PjvoPU



Ricoh WG-M1 Waterpr 

Live out your adventure with the all-new WG-M1. The latest addition to 

the WG series combines the features you love, including waterproof, shockresistant 

and coldproof assurance plus the ability to capture class leading highresolution 

images and motion activities. With the ultra-wide angle lens, users 

are sure to capture an array of outdoor activities from underwater adventures to 

daredevil outdoor fun. Waterproof up to a depth of 32 feet and cold resistant to 

temperatures as low as -10°C, the WG-M1 is ideal for the adventure seeker. 

With the equipped Wi-Fi connection, sending still images and movies from 

your smart phone is made easy for uploading to your favorite social media site. 

With the WG-M1 you’ll be able to capture dynamic Full HD movie clips with a 

realistic sense of depth. The rugged, heavy-duty design which offers large buttons 

and controls for ease of use, mimics that of the other WG series cameras. 

Equipped with a 1.5-inch color LCD monitor, you can easily check real-time 

images during both still-image and movie shooting modes. The WG-M1 is the 

must-have camera for the thrill seeker looking to capture the world around. 

Website: http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com/digital-camera/WG-M1_Orange 


337 

oof Action Camera 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ev0F2-i5EbU

Get Your Kids Fish 

Junior Anglers 

An Initiative By The Asian Angler Magazine 

Fishing is a very healthy sport. 

As anglers we enjoy fresh air, we 

experience nature, we improve 

our analytical skills, we absorb 

vitamins from the sun, we expend 

our minds, we learn about the 

environment, etc. 

There are so many benefits to 

fishing and we should reduce our 

kids addiction to video games, 

computer games, playing with 

mobile devices, etc. We should get 

them to interact more with our 

environment and teach them a 

thing or two about life and living 

life. 

With this in mind we hope to 

encourage you to take your kid(s) 

fishing and have dedicated a section 

of our magazine to Junior 

Anglers.

ing 

* Picture courtesy of Pure Fishing 

339

Junior Anglers 

Marching Through March

341 

By Amirul Irfan 

Overall, March has been great. The weather 

was hot and water levels dropped but I managed 

to hook a few fish. Pressure from other 

commitments such as school has limited my 

fishing time but I still have the weekends. Notice 

the mount of soil at the end of the ‘steroid’ 

pond?

The back of the ‘steroid’ pond 

has a different view now. I 

presume that it will be covered, 

so I have decided to start 

my snakehead relocation program. 

From the beginning of 

March I have caught and kept 

snakeheads, and will relocate 

them to other locations. Other 

fish species will be included. 

343

Bashing through the jungle to reach 

a spot with lots of tree stumps, 

snakeheads and peacock bass. 

345

I have failed to pluck any fish out of 

this area. I tried fishing the Berkley 

Havoc Pitboss, but I failed to set 

the hook after a Giant Snakehead 

took it. There are some peacock 

bass lurking around in this area 

too. 

347

The anticipation of fishing topwater 

lures is exciting. Seeing ‘torpedo’ 

shaped wakes going straight 

towards your lure can make your 

heart stop for a while. I am a topwater 

fan, and I am sure that will 

never change. 

349

30cm Striped Snakehead on the Rapala 

Countdown 5 in Golden Alburnus. 

I decided to match the hatch as 

the fish in the steroid pond are very 

spooky and I was successful. The 

tight wiggle and baitfish profile of the 

countdown is perfect for fooling wary 

snakeheads. 

351

Rapala Countdown 5 in Hot Tiger. 

This snakeheads was fooled by my 

younger brother right before we left. 

Another lure added to my favourite 

list. 

353

Juvenile striped snakehead caught 

with a worm in just 10 seconds. The 

low water level and high temperatures 

made the fish passive so I had to use 

bait. Back to basics can be fun. 

355

A tilapia caught on worms too. 

Fighting it with 4lb Berkley Solutions 

mono is fun. It pulled 

my bobber around and put up 

a great fight until I had it in my 

hands. Now it is in my aquarium 

feasting on shrimps while 

waiting to be relocated. 

357

I tried to fish for another tilapia 

at the same spot but this juvenile 

striped snakehead managed 

to steal the worms first. It made a 

run into some reeds and 4lb test 

was not enough. I had to get in and 

pull it out of the reeds with a plank. 

359

My youngest brother managed to 

hook this juvenile tilapia. They 

look great when they are small. 

361

This juvenile snakehead was caught 

on a live minnow in around a 

minute. Watching my float bob 

away after the snakehead took 

the minnow was tempting. The 

hook was small but it managed 

to hook the lip of this snakehead. 

363

Climbing Perch caught on a worm. 

Bigger ones were nibbling hard 

but they managed to get away. 

365

Mr.Zul Ali, a friend I met at Uncle 

Jim’s tackle shop. He thought me some 

great knowledge about hampala barbs 

and snakeheads. During our short 

meet and fish session, I missed a few 

juvenile snakeheads but it was fun. 

367

Some snakeheads in the holding 

tank. Currently I have 6 snakeheads 

waiting to be relocated. I feed 

them with shrimp and minnows I 

net at the ‘steroid pond’. Hundreds 

of shrimp can be caught in an hour 

by using a homemade minnow trap. 

369

The Berkley Powerbait Kasumi 

Craw never fails to produce. I used 

the green pumpkin colour for contrast 

in the murky water on that 

particular day. I fished the craw at 

a fast pace on top of some hydrilla. 

371

373 

I do not know what is that orange 

marking on this snakehead. It seems 

to be a healed wound, but I am not really 

sure. 

Super stoked for April , and I hope 

everyone reading this will have a great 

time ahead be it on the water or in 

an office (dreaming about fishing..). 

Please remember to stay safe while 

fishing. Recently I have heard of multiple 

fishing related accidents. If you 

are fishing from a boat, wear proper 

gear and take necessary measures to 

prevent any accidents. 

Tight lines and Happy fishing.

Featuring 

ABU GARCIA AMBASSADEUR CS PRO ROCKET (Black Edition) 

ROCK-SOLID DURABILITY AND STYLE ENGINEERED FOR LONG 

DISTANCE CASTING 

The international best seller got an overhaul. Increased stainless steel bearing count 

and the powerful Carbon Matrix drag system make the CS Pro Rocket Black Edition the 

choice for anglers looking for extra long castability and power. 

THE ABU ADVANTAGE 

• 4 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing provides smooth operation 

• Carbon Matrix drag system gives smooth drag performance 

• Compact bent handle and star provide a more ergonomic design 

• 6 pin centrifugal brake gives consistent brake pressure throughout the cast 

• Synchronized level wind system improves line lay and castability 

• Made in Sweden 

MONO BRAID MAX GEAR INCHES HAND 

MODEL # SAP # CAPACITY CAPACITY DRAG RATIO PER TURN WEIGHT BEARINGS RETRIEVE 

6500CSBPROROCKET 1292742 Box 14 lb/275 yd 30 lb/310 yd 15 lb 5.3:1 26 11.4 oz 5 Right 

For more information please visit www.purefishingmalaysia.com

ABU GARCIA AMBASSADEUR RECORD 

LEGENDARY POWER AND STYLE TO LAND YOUR NEXT RECORD 

With 70+ years of notoriety, the next generation of Record reels continues the legacy of 

craftsmanship and design that has made this reel an icon. Improved Duragear 2 gear design 

and 8 bearing system deliver great casting performance and dependability. 


• 7 stainless steel HPCR bearings + 1 roller bearing provides increased corrosion protection 

• Carbon Matrix drag system provides smooth, consistent drag pressure across the entire 

drag range 

• Compact bent handle and star provide a more ergonomic design 

• 6 pin centrifugal brake gives consistent brake pressure throughout the cast 

• Synchronized level wind system improves line lay and castability 

• High capacity models available 

• Duragear 2 gear system provides increased gear strength for all fishing situations 




RCN-5600 1292709 Box 12 lb/135 yd 30 lb/135 15 lb 6.8:1 33 10.2 oz 8 Right 

RCN-6600HC 1292711 Box 12 lb/320 yd 30 lb/310 15 lb 4.7:1 23 11.8 oz 8 Right 

RCN-6601HC 1292712 Box 12 lb/320 yd 30 lb/310 15 lb 4.7:1 23 11.8 oz 8 Left 

375

ABU GARCIA AMBASSADEUR MORRUM ZX 

PRECISION CASTING AND CONTROL IN THE ULTIMATE ROUND REEL 

Not just any reel has what it takes to bear the Mörrum name - introducing the new Mörrum ZX. 

From its machined aluminum frame andsideplates to bent carbon handle and flat EVA knobs, 

no detail was spared in designing the ultimate round reel. Compact design coupled with the 

renowned IVCB-IV (Infinitely Variable Centrifugal Brake) system enables anglers to cast ultralightweight 

lures with precision, accuracy and control. 


• 10 stainless steel HPCR bearings + 1 roller bearing provides increased corrosion protection 

• Machined aluminum frame and sideplates provides strength without excess weight 

• Carbon Matrix drag system provides smooth, consistent drag pressure across the entire drag range 

• IVCB-IV TM (Infinitely Variable Centrifugal Brake) gives very precise brake adjustments allowing anglers t 

easily cast a wide variety of baits 

• Infini II spool design for extended castability and extreme loads 

• Compact bent carbon handle provides a more ergonomic design that is extremely lightweight 

• Flat EVA knobs provide greater comfort and durability 

• Titanium coated line guide reduces friction and improves durability 

• Recessed reel foot allows for a more ergonomic reel design 




MORRUMZX-3600 1292537 Box 12 lb/135 yd 30 lb/135yd 15 lb 6.3:1 28 7.34 oz 11 Right 

MORRUMZX-3601 1292538 Box 12 lb/135 yd 30 lb/135yd 15 lb 6.3:1 28 7.34 oz 11 Left 


377 

The stainless steel gear train in our Squall Lever Drag 

reels doesn’t get much tougher. Machined from stainless 

steel and drilled out for weight reduction, these gears offer 

the perfect combination of strength and speed. 

Our Dura-Drag ® material contains a special Phenolic 

bonding agent that prevents premature breakdown 

to water. We then pretreat each drag washer with a 

special compound developed by PENN engineers..... 

o 

PENN SQUALL LEVER DRAG 2-SPEED 

The PENN Squall Lever Drag 2-Speed is basically a graphite International and comes 

in the 3 most popular big game sizes. Made from graphite for its benefits of being both 

lightweight and corrosion resistant. The Quick-Shift 2-Speed and Dura-Drag systems 

have been perfected in our International reels and the technology has transfered down 

to the Squall platform. 

THE PENN ADVANTAGE 



• Stainless steel main and pinion gear 

• Dura-Drag ® washers virtually eliminate hesitation, even under extreme drag settings 

• Quick-Shift 2-speed system 


• Double-dog ratchet anti-reverse 


Mono Cap. Braid Cap. Max Drag Max Drag Line Retrieve Weight 

Model Material # (yds/lb) (yds/lb) Bearings @ Strike @ Full Gear Ratio (in)High/Low (oz) 

SQL16VS 1292936 

1090/15 • 725/20 • 540/30 1490/30 • 1040/50 • 865/65 4 20 lbs 26 lbs 4.5:1 / 2.1:1 39/18 38.5 

SQL30VSW 1292937 1395/20 • 1035/30 • 595/50 1995/50 • 1660/65 • 1435/80 4 24 lbs 32 lbs 4.2:1 / 1.8:1 41/18 47.0 

SQL50VSW 1292938 1550/30 • 890/50 • 565/80 2485/65 • 2145/80 • 1835/100 4 30 lbs 40 lbs 2.9:1 / 1.5:1 33/17 55.6 

TM

Featuring 

AVAILABLE IN 

LEFT HAND 

AVAILABLE IN 

LINECOUNTER 

Switchblade TM Harness Lugs 

available on the SQL50LW 

PENN SQUALL LEVEL WIND 

The PENN Squall Level Wind reel is the sucessor to the GT series reels which have 

been around for decades and proven themselves on big fish. The Squall LW has all 

of the proven featurs of the GT series, with the addition of improved gear ratios and 

an Instant Anti-Reverse bearing, in a more compact package. Left hand sizes 

available in the 20 and 30 sizes. 




• High-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear 

• Stainless steel pinion gear 

• 2+1 Shielded stainless steel bearing system 

• Instant Anti-Reverse bearing with silent back up ratchet 


Model Material # Mono Cap. (yds/lb) Braid Cap. (yds/lb) Bearings Max Drag Gear Ratio Line Retrieve (in) Weight (oz) 

SQL15LW 1292939 320/15 • 280/17 • 215/20 580/20 • 435/30 • 305/50 2+1 15 lbs 4.9:1 28 16.2 

SQL20LW 1292940 415/17 • 315/20 • 290/25 865/20 • 650/30 • 455/50 2+1 15 lbs 4.9:1 28 16.9 

SQL20LWLH 1292941 415/17 • 315/20 • 290/25 865/20 • 650/30 • 455/50 2+1 15 lbs 4.9:1 28 16.9 

SQL30LW 1292943 455/25 • 370/30 • 285/40 1020/30 • 710/50 • 590/65 2+1 20 lbs 4.9:1 35 20.9 

SQL30LWLH 1292944 455/25 • 370/30 • 285/40 1020/30 • 710/50 • 590/65 2+1 20 lbs 4.9:1 35 20.9 

SQL50LW 1292945 435/40 • 320/50 • 285/60 900/65 • 775/80 • 665/100 2+1 20 lbs 4.0:1 32 24.6

379 

PENN GT LEVEL WIND 

The PENN GT family of reels is one of the most recognizable on the market and perhaps 

the most capable all-around level wind reel available. The GT reels are available in models 

capable of everything from light-duty inshore bottom fishing to heavy-duty halibut models 

and that is why they are the standard reel of choice on charter and private boats throughout 

the country. 


• Lightweight graphite frame 

• Machined and anodized aluminum spool 

• Built in linecounter for precise depth control (LC models) 

• High-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear 

• Precision-machined stainless steel pinion gear 

• HT-100 drag washers provide smooth drag under heavy loads 

• Stainless steel level wind 

• Stainless steel reel stand 

Model Mtr # (Box • Clam) Mono Cap. (yds/lb) Braid Cap. (yds/lb) Bearings Max Drag Gear Ratio Line Retrieve (in) Weight (oz) 

321GT2 1152017 Box 410/15 • 290/20 • 190/30 775/20 • 575/30 • 400/50 2 12 lbs 4.3:1 25 23 

330GT2 1152021 Box 450/20 • 330/30 • 250/40 900/30 • 625/50 • 525/65 2 16 lbs 3.6:1 26 27 


ROD FORD SINISTER 

Featuring 

Rod Ford first ever collaboration with Azahar MJ, a fishing guide and 

boat captain of Pekan, Pahang. Greatly known for his prowess in 

hunting the Ebeks with metal jigs and wild mackerel chase, Rod Ford 

built coastal class saltwater jigging rods to Azahar’s own specification 

preference. 

Each of the Sinister Ebek Special models come in dual handles. The 

extended with split rear end for jigging and a shorter full EVA handle 

for lure casting in estuaries, bay, coastal lines or around islands. 

The perfection is in which each model is equally well balance with 

both handles.

EBEK SPECIAL 

381

The 7’3” model is made to execute long fall technique with fluttering 

metal jigs on a spin outfit. Though contradictory to what the native 

Japanese suggest to using a multiplier reel for this option; our local 

shallow waters of South China Sea allows the different setup combination. 

Constructed from 24TON + 30TON Carbon and equipped with standard 

K SiC guides and Fuji ACM/VSS reel seats. 

Comes in two section models with butt joint and dual handles. 

RFSN732/692S-LJ 

RFSN632/572B-LJ 

RFSN632/592S-LJ 

PE1.0-2.0 JIG100g 

PE0.8-2.0 JIG 100g 

PE0.8-2.0 JIG 100g 

For more information please contact: 

MGFA (M) Sdn. Bhd. 

Tel: 607-861 9289 

Fax: 607-863 2189 

Email: info@mgfanglers.com

383

Featuring 

ROD FORD HALFMO 

A revival of a hit from 2010, the Halfmoon was a favorite among 

snakehead lure anglers then for its moderate action which cleverly 

impart better swimming action to deep diving minnows and a tough 

blank you can push to its limit during a do or die tussle. 

Rod Ford designs the new Halfmoon with Carbon Veil concept; layering 

the outer blank with additional carbon scrim to increase strength 

and toughness. This is visually evident with the wavy carbon patterns 

throughout the blank’s surface. A concept adopted by the older 

model too; difference lies in the finer finishing on the latter. Handle 

section is further wrapped with Aramid (Kevlar) for stiffness and cool 

factor.

ON ULTIMATE 

385

Constructed from 24TON Carbon and equipped with standard K SiC 

guides and Fuji ACM/VSS reel seats. 

Comes in only one section models. 

RFHM561B-M 

5’ 6” 6-12 L B 4-20G LURE MEDIUM ACTION WT : 110G BAIT 

RFHM631B-M 

6’ 3” 8-14 L B 6-20G LURE MEDIUM ACTION WT : 120G BAIT 

RFHM631S-M 

6’ 3” 8-14 L B 6-20G LURE MEDIUM ACTION WT : 120G SPIN 



Tel: 607-861 9289 

Fax: 607-863 2189 


387

Featuring 

Zen KON 

Zen KON is a polyhedron shape jig that is designed for 

slow jigging approach and long fall method. Fishes usually 

get excited and attack when the jig free fall with its 

enticing built in action. Comes in 2 different sizes ranging 

20G &40G; Zen Kon offers 5 different colors in reflective 

laser effect which prove to be an effective visual attractant 

for SW game fishes from afar. Color available: Blue 

smelt, Sardine, Dorado, Shinner, & Mullet. 



Tel: 607-861 9289 

Fax: 607-863 2189 


389

Featuring 

K-RU POP 

Pop, Gurgling, slide and pushes water with each rod twitch, 

K-RU Pop float and maintain a horizontal profile even when 

motionless on the water. The enticing swimming leg action during 

retrieve sends lurking snakehead into frenzy, Made with 

TPR material, K-RU Pop is very lifelike and incredibly tough. 

Available in 7cm/4gm and 9cm/10gm with 3 colors to choose. 



Tel: 607-861 9289 

Fax: 607-863 2189 


391

Rod Ford ATOM Tune 

Featuring 

Rod Ford ATOM Tune up stage rod designed for those crazy 

lure caster out there with made with quality composite graphite 

to make it light for long hours casting, sensitive and tough 

to suit the every challenging fishing environment where are 

the predator hiding. This Rod ford ATOM rod action which enhances 

the lifting power with a handing feel while minimizing 

the fatigue and exhaustion experiences by the angler. FUJI 

component guide and reel seat. 

Model available: 

RFATCT501MRFB LINE 4-10LB LURE 1/8-3/8OZ 

RFATCT561MRFB LINE 5-12LB LURE 1/4-5/8OZ 

RFATCT601MRFB LINE 5-15LB LURE 1/4-5/8OZ

393 

Up Stage 



Tel: 607-861 9289 

Fax: 607-863 2189 


Featuring

395 

If life squid is the ultimate bait for sea fishing as what 

all saltwater anglers swear by; Rod Ford Loligos should 

make the ultimate metal bait for micro jigging and shore 

casting. 15gms in weight, the LOLIGOS flashes in daylight 

with its reflective laser sticker front and back body 

and glow in luminous green under dark conditions. The 

LOLIGOS slightly protruded fins imparts a irresistible 

swimming that provokes strike without fail. Either reel it 

in or let sink and jig it up. Highly effective for “Cencaru 

Kuda”. 

Color Avalible: Green, Blue, Pink, Silver & Black. 



Tel: 607-861 9289 

Fax: 607-863 2189 


Classified Pages 

Custom Rod 

Builder & 

Reel and rod 

repairs 

Call: Kok Ming 

Bella Vista Motels 

Bella Vista Mosgiel 

Experience New Zealand With Bella 

Vista 

Your Hosts Keith & Marie Hendry 

85 Gordon Road, Mosgiel, South Island, 

New Zealand. 

Mobile:+6019 3122697 


Needs You 

Entrepreneur Inside 

Self Starter 

Willing To Learn 

Loves Being On The Road 

Loves To Fish 

If you have the above five points do 

email your resume to the 

email address below. 

Phone: +64 03 848 7258 

Email: bvmosgiel@xtra.co.nz 

Web: www.bellavistamosgiel.co.nz 

Want To Be Part 

Of The Fishing 

Tackle Industry? 

Do contact us if you have experience in 

Position 1: Sales Esecutive 

Do send us an email to the email. 

address below. 

Email: phil@theasianangler.com 

Tel : +6012 883 1628 

Email: info@mgfanglers.com 

Tel : +607-8619 289

397 

For Affordable Advertising Spaces Contact Us At 

phil@theasianangler.com or call +6012 883 1628 

Ad Space Only RM10.00 per month. 

Email: phil@theasianangler.com or call 

+6012 883 1628. 

Ad Space Only RM10.00. per Month. 


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MCin Huodan Float 


No. 27, Jalan IMJ 4, Taman Perindustrian Malim Jaya, 75250 Melaka, Malaysia. 

Tel: +606-334 4555 Fax: +606 336 2211 Mobile: +6012 631 3561 (Whatsapp 

available) Email: enquiry@brilliant-tackle.com

The Asian Angler - April 2015 Digital Issue - Malaysia - English

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