Up Close: Map TKS Competition Poles - 25/02/2010

The Top Kit Solution provided anglers with a guide as to where to cut back for whichever size of PTFE bush they needed – all colour coded with items in the MAP elastication range. It made elasticating poles so much easier.

However, the poles weren’t just about the top kits – the performance of each individual pole was up there with the very best in the price range. For 2010, MAP has revamped the TKS poles and released this, the TKS Competition range. In this range there are six poles, starting at £349.99 (125 Competition) and finishing at £1,499.99 (625 Competition). The poles feature the same, unique top-kit system but on different mandrels to make them perform even better. At each given price point these poles also contain plenty of top kits – brilliant news for the buyer!

The poles are very strong and commercial-fishery friendly with appropriate No20 elastic ratings on the power kits. However, they’re equally suited to lighter elastics and ‘finesse fishing’ approaches due to the balance and rigidity throughout the range. For a smoother action the poles all feature the Diamond Sanding Finish. Although it varies depending on the model, you receive match kits, power kits and cupping kits with the poles. The TKS 625 comes with eight top kits! Also in the spare packages are a mini-extension, a pole holdall, and a 12-month warranty.

Verdict: The original range has just got better! Well done MAP.

RRP:

• TKS 125 Competition £349.99
• TKS 225 Competition £449.99
• TKS 325 Competition £599.99
• TKS 425 Competition £799.99
• TKS 525 Competition £999.99
• TKS 625 Competition £1,499.99