Some tools are for the casual user, some are for those who use them often, and some are for those who understand that their passion demands the best. Century rods are in this last category. Nothing about these rods is done in half measures and it shows. For anglers who fish tournaments, having equipment that will not let you down is essential; there is more than enough chance of failure in the peg draw without having to worry about anything else.

The perfect rod for the demands of tournament angling varies with the anglers’ abilities and preferences, and whatever these are, there is a Century rod that will fit the need. Out of this line of rods, two–the F2MA and the C2—stand out as tools that get the job done under a wide range of conditions that might be found after the peg has been drawn. While these rods both get the job done, they are different in some key ways that might help when deciding which rod is better for you – lets take a look.

Both of these rods are distance casting machines that will handle just about anything you care to throw, while being able to fish right under the tips if need be. The C2-D comes stock with either Fuji K guides or Century’s own 50mm, with the FMA coming with the Century 50mm only. The K guides are lighter, being the titanium version of the series, but both guides feature SIC rings that work well with either monofilament or braided mainlines, and the choice is largely a matter of personal preference as both will give you amazing casting range.

The test curve and action of the C2-D vs the FMA accomplish the goal in different ways. The C2-D is rated at a 3.75lb test curve and is stated on the Century website to be suited for 3.5-5oz weights. The FMA is not rated in terms of test curve, but rather (like American rods) with a casting weight due to the different action of the rod, and is rated for (depending on the model) 3-5oz as well. The action of the C-2D is parabolic, but with a massive amount of power to draw on when casting long distances or heavy weights.

The FMA, on the other hand, has a more “zoned” action (much like a surf rod) that is designed to cast as far as possible. In the FMA this “stiff surf rod” action has been toned down a bit to better fight fish under the rod tip. If you are worried about hook pulls with either the C2-D or FMA, it is simply not a problem. During the Wild Carp Classic 2015, not one fish was lost due to a hook pull at short range on either rod despite a large number of fish being caught in very stiff current.

While the C2-D and FMA are rated the same, it seems that the C2-D has a little better ability to cast very heavy weights. During the WCC 2015 the peg ended up being one with so much current that 8oz weights were needed just to almost hold bottom. The C2-D was able to cast this, plus method packed around the weight, over 90yds with out too much problem. The FMA (12′ it should be noted) could do the same with a 8oz lead and a small stick. This is, remember, with no hook pulls at short range – not too shabby!

The C2-D is also designed to be the right combination of power and give to allow for not using a shock leader while still hitting 150yds with a 15lb mono main line. While this is not an issue on water in the USA (there are no waters which ban a shock leader as of this time) it can add peace of mind if you don’t want to risk fish safety by using one under some conditions with some rigs and this really sets this rod apart.

 

So, what rod is best for you? When all is said and done its a matter of personal preference (isn’t everything?), but here is the summary. The C2-D is designed to deal with just about any condition while the FMA is primarily designed for distance casting. Either rod will put fish on the bank, and will get the job done time and time again. When it comes down to it and you need  equipment that will not fail, the C2-D and the FMA  are the right tools for the job and will hold up for season after season, fish after fish.

If you have questions about either of these rods, contact sales@bigcarptackle.com or find the Century USA Carp Team on Facebook and post your question.