Abu Garcia is one of the most well-known manufacturers of rods and fishing equipment, and it seems like the company has its fingers in just about every pie. The IKE Signature is designed to be a reliable and affordable casting rod which emphasizes the importance of a lightweight and high power rating.
Going into this review, we had high expectations. This is because other Abu Garcia products have performed well and had much to praise. Luckily, this casting rod did not disappoint.
Basic Specifications
When examining the IKE Signature casting rod, it’s important to check its features and specifications. When you use this model, you can expect the following:
- Material: Graphite
- Length: 7’6
- Line Weight: 12-20 lbs.
- Lure Weight: 1/4-1 oz.
- Rear Handle Length: 10.25"
- Power: Medium Heavy
- Taper: Fast
- Rod Weight: 5.6 oz.
Fans of Abu Garcia should note that the graphite is once again 36 ton. The guides are made from stainless steel, and there are zirconium inserts.
Casting
Casting with this rod is simple and straightforward. You will almost always hit your market, although the rod did have a tendency to be several degrees off while aiming. This model is particularly good for gentle lob casts.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity is essential for casting and angling in general since it helps you identify whether you are in a good spot for catching fish. In general, the sensitivity of the IKE Signature is average overall, but impressive for a rod of this price and caliber. You will be able to identify the bites of small fish and can feel most of the obstructions in the water.
Control
One of the greatest features of the Abu Garcia IKE Signature is how much control you have during the entire casting and catching process. This is an accurate rod which is easy to aim, and you will be able to make minor and major adjustments without difficulty.
The IKE Signature is designed to be 50% tip and 50% backbone, and this might take some getting used to for anglers who are inexperienced with this style of rod. What these percentages mean is half of the rod will be flexible while half is the “base” and designed to be more stable while in use. The split actually improves the overall control of the model, though, and we consider it an essential component of the IKE Signature.
Power
It is in the power of the IKE that we began to experience discrepancies and difficulties. You see, the Abu Garcia IKE is rated as medium heavy and has been give the Abu Garcia rating of 6. However, once the other features are taken into account, the IKE Signature casting rod is actually a full heavy rod.
After noticing this discrepancy, it was time to take the rod out to do a field test and determine which power rating was more accurate. After a couple of trials and tests, it was determined that this rod is indeed a heavy model and thus seems to have an inaccurate rating.
Once it is considered a heavy model, though, the IKE functions beautifully. It is easy to use and has the casting power any angler would desire.
Is It Worth The Money?
No one wants to invest their hard-earned cash in a rod only to discover it is useless or does not function well. The Abu Garcia IKE Signature can be had for roughly $150 from most retailers. After checking how well it works during average use, this review can safely say the rod is worth the investment. It is durable and can last for years when properly maintained, so anglers of all experience levels can expect to get their money’s worth.
Potential Issues
Of course, no one believes a review which only talks about the positives. We also wanted to closely consider any potential cons with the IKE Signature, especially in its performance. After putting the rod through a series of tests, we have discovered the following:
Although the graphite is intended to be sturdy and durable, it is prone to scratching. While casting, the line is also likely to be off of the mark by several degrees, even during repeated tests.
However, these are minor problems that do not affect the overall function and performance of the IKE Signature.
Conclusion
After careful testing, it is clear the Abu Garcia IKE Signature is a great addition to any angler’s casting rods. It is reliable and powerful, even if some of the ratings seem to be off. It is also affordable and will last for years, helping fishermen and women get their money’s worth. Plus, it can be used by individuals of all experience levels.
If you need a casting rod and would like something capable but not flashy, this could be for you. It's ideal for catching game fish so it'd work well as a go-to bass rod for practically anyone.
