Carbon vs. Composite: Which Rod Material Is Right for You?

If you're shopping for a new fishing rod, one of the most common questions is:
“Should I choose carbon or composite?”

At WAFT, we specialize exclusively in high-performance carbon fiber rods — and there’s a reason for that. After over 30 years of rod development and testing across South Africa and global waters, we know what works when performance matters.

This guide explains the differences between carbon and composite rods, and why carbon fiber is the material of choice for serious anglers.

What Is Carbon Fiber?

Carbon fiber (sometimes called graphite) is an advanced material used in high-end fishing rods because it is:

• Extremely lightweight
• Exceptionally strong
• Highly sensitive to bites and movement
• Fast in recovery and casting

These characteristics make carbon rods ideal for:

• Long-distance casting (carp & bank angling)
• Sensitive bite detection (bass, finesse techniques)
• Precision and power (saltwater spinning, competition use)

Why WAFT Uses Only High Carbon

WAFT rods are made using custom carbon fiber blends developed through extensive R&D. Here’s why we don’t use composite or fiberglass:

• Precision: Our high carbon blanks allow exact control over action, taper, and recovery speed.
• Responsiveness: Pure carbon reacts instantly to your movement — ideal for striking, fighting, and casting.
• Lightness: Reduced fatigue means more comfort, especially during long sessions.
• Durability: With the right layering and construction, carbon is not only strong — it lasts.

Our engineering team continually tests new fiber structures, resin systems, and blank layering to push each rod’s limits — making WAFT one of the few rod makers that builds exclusively in premium carbon, and knows how to use it right.

What Is a Composite Rod?

Composite rods are built using a mix of materials — usually carbon fiber blended with fiberglass. These rods are:

• More flexible (bends deeper)
• Generally more forgiving
• Often stronger under extreme pressure
• Heavier and less sensitive

While composite rods have their place — such as trolling or extreme load applications — they often sacrifice feel, casting distance, and performance.

WAFT chooses not to use composite materials because we design for anglers who demand:

• Better sensitivity
• Lighter gear
• Faster performance
• More refined control

Carbon vs. Composite: Quick Comparison

Which Rod Is Right for You?

If you're serious about your angling — whether you're casting for carp at range, flicking lures for bass, or battling saltwater species — carbon is your material.

WAFT rods are built for:

• Longer casts with less effort
• Maximum bite sensitivity
• Fighting power
• Lightweight handling that reduces fatigue

 Whether you're fishing the rugged banks of South Africa or targeting predators abroad, WAFT carbon rods give you the edge.

Why Anglers Choose WAFT

At WAFT, we believe in mastering one thing — and doing it exceptionally well.

We don’t offer “budget” fiberglass or entry-level composites.
We focus only on what works best for performance.

With our deep angling experience, innovative carbon development, and uncompromising quality control, every WAFT rod is engineered for anglers who expect more.

That’s why we build exclusively in high carbon — and why our rods perform at the highest level.