Investing in one of the best fishing poles can significantly enhance your fishing experience. This guide explores the best poles available for under £1000, considering factors such as build quality, performance, versatility, and value for money. We’ll delve into options from leading brands, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you're interested in precision match fishing or powerful commercial carp, we’ve got you covered. Whether you prioritise all-round performance or specialise in a specific fishing style, our in-depth analysis will help you find the perfect pole to elevate your angling game.
Best poles under £1000 at a glance
• Best 16m Pole under £1000: Preston Superium X30 16m Pole - See offer on Total Fishing Tackle
• Best Carp Pole under £1000: Matrix MTX2 V2 13m Pole - See offer on Total Fishing Tackle
• Best Match Pole under £1000: Preston Superium X25 14.5m Pole - See offer on Total Fishing Tackle
• Best Allrounder Pole under £1000: Daiwa Matchwinner MW3 14.5m Pole - See offer on Total Fishing Tackle
Pole fishing is somewhat of an art and generally the more you spend the better the pole will be in terms of stiffness and balance, however that doesn't mean you can pick up a fantastic pole that will stand up to the rigours of modern day angling if you have less than £1000 to spend. Here is a guide to some of the best poles under £1000...
EVERY GOOD POLE NEEDS THE BEST POLE ROLLER TO GET THE BEST OUT OF THE POLE AND KEEP IT SAFE FROM DAMAGE. OUR GUIDE WILL SHOW YOU THE BEST AROUND
Best 16m Pole Under £1000
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The Superium X30 is a versatile pole designed to excel in a wide range of fishing conditions. Its impressive rigidity and strength make it equally adept at handling delicate match fishing tactics or battling powerful carp.
This 16-meter pole comes complete with a comprehensive set of match and carp kits, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation. The included mini extension adds extra flexibility, allowing you to adapt to varying water depths and fishing styles.
With its robust build quality and extensive spares package, the Superium X30 offers exceptional value for money. It is a strong contender for any angler seeking a top-tier pole without breaking the bank.
SEE OUR VIDEO REVIEW OF THE SUPERIUM X30 HERE
Pros
- Fishable 16m at an unbelievable price
- All kits come fully bushed
- Other top kit options available
Cons
- Would benefit from a short No 3 (available separately)
| Length: | 13m |
| Top kits: | Five, plus cupping kit |
| Compatibility: | All sections fully interchange throughout the whole UK range |
Best Match Pole Under £1000
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The Preston Superium The X25 pole represents a significant advancement in the realm of affordable, high-performance fishing poles. If you demands versatility and value, the Preston Superium X25 to be an exceptional choice for a wide range of fishing scenarios.
One of the most notable improvements in the X25 is its enhanced balance. Even at its full length, the pole feels manoeuverable and ships easily due to the increased rigidity, this also ensures that hitting fast bites at distance is no problem.
The X25 comes with a comprehensive package, including a cupping kit and a deluxe Supera X 6 tube holdall. This means you're ready to fish straight out of the box.
Pros
- Pre-bushed with roller bushes already fitted in the kits
- Great balance and feel with a smooth, easy shipping finish
- Has 1 inch interval markers on the kits for ultimate accuracy
Cons
- Not supplied with a hard case like the more expensive models
| Length: | 13m |
| Top kits: | Four, plus cupping kit |
| Compatibility: | Top-4 fully interchange with UK-made generic kits |
Best 14.5m Carp Pole Under £1000
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The Daiwa Matchman 14.5m pole is designed to excel in challenging commercial fishing conditions. With lengths of 13m and 14.5m, it offers exceptional reach, while its HMC+ High Modulus Carbon construction ensures outstanding strength and responsiveness.
Daiwa's innovative ITS (Integrated Taping System) and section alignment technology further enhance the pole’s performance, providing anglers with precise control. The inclusion of multiple top kits and a cupping kit underscores Daiwa's commitment to delivering a comprehensive package for versatile fishing.
Pros
- Puller bushes fitted on top kits
- Ample spares package
- ITS finish makes shipping easy
Cons
- Not compatible with UK made top kits
| Length: | 11.5m or 13m |
| Top kits: | Three |
| Compatibility: | Backward compatible with older Xtreme M3. Can be used as an extension to the M1 pole |
Best All-rounder Pole Under £1000
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The Daiwa MW3 is a standout performer in the Matchwinner range, offering exceptional versatility and performance. This 14.5m pole excels in both close-range and long-range fishing, making it a truly adaptable choice for anglers of all levels.
Crafted with MSG Multi Stand Graphite, the MW3 provides remarkable responsiveness and sensitivity, allowing you to hit every bite with precision. The innovative V-Joint technology enhances the connection between sections, resulting in a seamless and powerful action.
To complement the pole’s performance, Daiwa includes a comprehensive spares package, all proudly made in the UK, ensuring you’re well-equipped for any fishing scenario
CHECK OUT OUR FULL REVIEW OF THE DAIWA MW3 HERE
Pros
- Compatible with Daiwa's UK made top kits and Number 4
- Comes with holdall and dolly butt
- Supplied with Daiwa's Interlastic kits
Cons
- 3mm match kit supplied in pole will limit elastic choice
| Length: | 16m |
| Top kits: | Five, plus cupping kit |
| Compatibility: | Fully interchangeable with X20 and X30, plus top kits from the top range Superium and old XS poles |
Best Carp Pole under £1000
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The MTX2 V2 13m is designed to excel in the demanding conditions of modern commercial fisheries. Its 13m length strikes the perfect balance between reach and control, making it equally adept at targeting big carp or finesse fishing for smaller species.
Constructed with high-quality Japanese carbon fiber and featuring innovative technologies like MST layering and V-Joint, the MTX2 delivers exceptional strength, rigidity, and responsiveness.
The inclusion of PTFE bushes and Revolve Side Pullers on all top kits further enhances both performance and durability.
Pros
- Strong and robust
- All top kits pre-bushed with pre-fitted updated revolve pullers
- Uses same mandrel as previous model so parts interchange
Cons
- Would sacrifice one kit for an F1 kit to really bolster the spares package
| Length: | 13m |
| Top kits: | Three, plus cupping kit |
| Compatibility: | Top kits compatible with full TKS range, past and present. Larger sections are fully compatible with the firm’s 201 and 301 poles |
Best 13m Pole Under £1000
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The Guru A-Class boasts exceptional strength and responsiveness. The inclusion of Guru's Performance Point Alignment System further enhances the pole's rigidity and precision. The combination of super glide paint and friction-free matt tape finishes ensures smooth performance even in challenging conditions.
Designed with the angler in mind, the A-Class 13.0m comes with a comprehensive package, including multiple true extensions and both power and match kit options. This allows you to tailor the pole to your specific needs. The use of high-quality materials and innovative design elements makes the A-Class a compelling choice for anglers seeking exceptional value without compromising on performance.
Available in either a match or power package, you can select the option that best meets your requirements.
SEE OUR FULL REVIEW OF THE GURU A-CLASS 13M POWER POLE HERE
Pros
- Available as a match or a power package you can tailor to your requirements
- Section alignment system further increases rigidity
- All kits come fully bushed
Cons
- Does not include a holdall
| Length: | 13m |
| Top kits: | Four, plus cupping kit |
| Compatibility: | Fully interchangeable with MTX range and older Nemesis poles |
Best Spares Package Pole Under £1000
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The Maver Definition XR pole is a testament to the idea that quality doesn't always equate to a hefty price tag. This pole delivers impressive performance far exceeding its price point. Crafted from high-modulus carbon fibre and reinforced with toughened epoxy resins, helping to increase the durability and overall strength of the sections.
The 13m package includes the pole, mini extensions to fit the 8 & 9 sections, and five pre-bushed commercial power top kits, complete with Maver’s roller slots. This comprehensive setup saves anglers both time and money.
Pros
- Well equipped with spare kits
- Multiple mini extensions
Cons
- Would like to see variety in the spares kits supplied
Best Margin Pole Under £1000
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Daiwa Tournament Pro X Margin pole is built for exceptional performance in demanding margin fishing situations. This specialised pole is also compatible with other recent UK-made poles, offering adaptability for anglers.
Constructed with enhanced wall thickness in the lower sections and butt, this margin pole delivers superior strength, enabling you to confidently tackle challenging swims. To further enhance its performance, the pole comes equipped with two pre-fitted 5.8mm Interlastic Cloud power kits, pre bushed, No.3 nose cones, and Interlastic side pullers.
Key features of the Daiwa Tournament Pro X Margin pole include MSG technology for improved responsiveness, V-Joint for enhanced section alignment, and a sleek Diamond Satin finish. The integrated taping system and section alignment system contribute to the pole's overall performance and longevity.
Pros
- Perfect partner for more expensive flagship poles
- Compatible with Daiwa UK made poles
- Robust build to handle all margin fishing
Cons
- Very specialised may not suit all anglers needs
| Length: | 13.5m |
| Top kits: | FIve, plus cupping kit |
| Compatibility: | All sections interchange with the full Reactacore, Shock-Core and Nano-Core ranges |
What to look for in a pole under £1000
When selecting a pole, aim for one that exceeds the maximum distance you need to fish. For many anglers, a 13m pole is ideal, as it covers most open water situations or snake lake-style venues. However, if you’re considering venturing into match fishing, a 14.5m or 16m pole is a wise choice. There will often be venues or situations in a match where that extra reach is advantageous.
Despite being well-built, poles don’t last forever. Joints wear out and sections can deteriorate over time. Opting for a pole compatible with other models allows you to use your top kits with a new or upgraded pole. Choosing a pole with good spares availability, and compatibility will minimise downtime. Whilst investing in a good quality pole roller will keep it safe from damage when in use.
For big fish and margin fishing, power kits are essential to handle heavy elastics. Lighter match kits improve performance at longer lengths and are ideal for lighter elastics and smaller fish. Short kits are cost-effective but reduce the pole's length. Look for a pole package that includes the top kits you need or offers them as optional extras.
Strength used to be a major concern for poles, but nowadays, most poles on the market are able to handle both carp and silverfish.
Glossary
Rig: The fishing line, float, shot, and hook assembly attached to the end of your pole.
Mandrel: The metal mould used to create pole sections. While many poles share the same mandrel, carbon quality varies, affecting performance.
Top Kit: The interchangeable final sections of a pole, holding the elastic and rig.
Cupping Kit: A specialised top kit for attaching a pole cup to deposit bait.
Elastic Bung: A plastic anchor for the elastic inside the top kit.
Side Puller: An alternative to a bung, allowing elastic tension adjustment.
Bush: A PTFE-coated component for smooth elastic exit.
Connector: Attaches the rig to the elastic (Dacron, bead, or plastic).
Mini Extension: A short, strong pole section for added reach and protection.
Pole Cup: A tool for depositing large amounts of bait.
Pole Pot: A small cup for feeding bait during fishing.
Shipping: Extending or retracting the pole, often using a pole roller.Pole Roller: A device for supporting the pole during shipping.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a margin pole, a power/carp pole and a match pole?
A margin pole is a shorter, often 9m or less, super strong pole designed for fishing for very big fish that live close to near bank features. A power or carp pole is almost as strong but designed to be used at longer lengths of up to 16m. A match pole is a lighter, more rigid and easier-to-handle pole that can also be used for big fish and carp, but with care due to their decreased strength.
What do the numbers mean on elastic ratings?
The bigger the number, the more powerful the elastic. As a rough guide, elastics from 2 to 10 are best used in match kits for smaller fish. More powerful elastics, up to a 20, are best used in power kits. Elastics over a 20 are normally only used in margin poles. Always check the rating on your top kits and pole first though.
What length pole should I buy?
Only you, as the angler, can decide this. 8m is a great length for margin fishing, whilst 11m to 13m is ideal for open-water fishing. Most serious match anglers will want a 16m pole, the maximum length allowed in a lot of matches.
What is the difference between Hollow, Hybrid and Solid elastic?
A solid elastic is the cheapest and most powerful elastic but wears out and perishes the quickest. A hollow elastic has a hole down the middle, which compresses as it stretches, giving it more cushioning and total stretch, making it ideal for mixed sizes of hard-fighting fish. A hybrid elastic sits somewhere between the two.
What is the difference between a match kit and a power kit?
A match kit is the lightest top kit made from the best carbon fibre and was the one your pole was designed with. A power kit is a heavier but stronger version which, although it allows you to use bigger elastics, will make your pole feel heavier and more cumbersome.
Why would I use a pole instead of a rod?
With no casting required, a far lighter float can be placed with pinpoint accuracy exactly where you want it. With shorter lengths of line in use, you get more control over your float, allowing you to manipulate your bait to appear more natural, induce bites, better combat wind and tow whilst making bites easier to hit. All these factors mean that in the right hands, a pole will normally outscore a rod and line approach fished within pole range.
How is a whip different to a pole?
A whip can be telescopic or take-apart and is designed to have a rig the same length as the whip itself, meaning a cast is required. Whips are a niche product designed for catching larger numbers of smaller fish and don't offer the same versatility or control as a pole.
Why are poles so expensive?
Poles vary in price from a few hundred pounds to thousands of pounds. Cheap poles are made from a very cheap carbon fibre, which is very strong and durable but makes for heavy and floppy poles. Expensive poles are made from higher-quality carbon fibre, making them lighter and stiffer, allowing them to remain manageable at longer lengths. More expensive carbon fibre is more brittle and less durable though, meaning top-end poles are far more easy to damage if not used correctly.
Author Jonathan Longden, is an experienced angler. With over 20 years experience in the tackle trade specialising in match and coarse fishing he has an extensive practical knowledge of the latest equipment and the specific needs of anglers. He currently occupies the role of digital content writer at Angling Times.