WKS SWB 807 IM: Rodbuilding Excellence for Targeting Big Pike

If you’re passionate about pike fishing with swimbaits, you know that choosing the right rod is crucial to combining casting comfort with hook-setting efficiency. Today, we present a true piece of technical craftsmanship: the WKS SWB 807 IM, a casting rod from the WorkShop Series (WKS) by Rodbuilders' Republic.

A Legendary Blank by Gary Loomis

The heart of this rod is its blank, the North Fork Composites (NFC) SWB 807 IM. Designed by the legendary Gary Loomis and manufactured in Woodland, USA, this blank is a benchmark for demanding anglers.

Measuring 2.45 meters (8 feet) with a casting weight of 50–150 grams, this one-piece rod weighs only 200 grams. It was specifically designed to cast shads, mouses, glides, or swims, especially in the 18–23 cm range, which is its “core specialty.”

A Rodbuilder “Signature” Design

What sets the WKS SWB 807 IM apart from industrial productions is its handcrafted assembly in the Rodhouse workshops in Sarzeau.

• Spine-mounted blank: Like all WKS rods, it is precisely mounted on the spine (the “nerve”) of the blank. This allows the rod to load and release energy perfectly along its working axis, ensuring maximum accuracy and power.
• High-end components: It features an elegant carbon handle and a Fuji ACSM reel seat, chosen to provide direct contact with the blank and optimal feedback transmission.
• Titanium Torzite guides: The guide setup is top-of-the-line – Fuji Titanium Torzite guides.

Spiral Mounting Stability

One of the technical highlights of this rod is its spiral casting setup (sometimes called Brazilian wrap). This design prevents the line from touching the blank under high pressure and provides greater stability when fighting large specimens.

On-Water Performance: Power and Comfort

The WKS SWB 807 IM achieves the perfect balance of power, progression, and reliability. Its Moderate-Fast action provides several tangible benefits:

• Effortless casting: The blank’s length allows you to propel your lures over long distances without strain.
• Hook-setting range: The length also provides a large lever for effective hook sets, even when the bite occurs far from the boat.
• Comfortable “bombing”: With 42 cm between the butt and trigger, the leverage is ideal for casting comfortably all day.

Conclusion

Priced at €489.00, the WKS SWB 807 IM is an investment for anglers who refuse to compromise on component quality or blank performance. Whether fishing slow with swimbaits or working shads, it is an outstanding ally for big pike.

This model is available directly from Rodhouse or through their network of authorized retailers.