DAIWA Sundowner Competition 35-405S/J

Go Even Farther – A New Era of Casting Distance with Joint Design

SUNDOWNER COMPETITION – A Pure Long-Distance Casting Competition Rod

Developed to meet the insatiable demands of competitive casters who relentlessly pursue greater distance, the SUNDOWNER COMPETITION is a specialized casting rod that redefines performance. This rod isn’t about “feeling like it flew” or delivering a “satisfying casting sensation”—it’s engineered based on measurable data, with every specification and action refined through empirical testing.

While it may not be suited for just anyone, for the skilled caster who can master it, this rod becomes an irreplaceable tool that unlocks peak performance.

Please note: This rod does not come with a reel seat or guides attached. Mounting services are not available.

DAIWA Technologies

Expert Sense Simulation [ESS]

A proprietary design system that analyzes and visualizes the “strain energy” (the restorative force that a blank generates when flexed). By quantifying how and where a blank excels or falls short, DAIWA integrates not only data but also angler intuition into the design process—creating rods that truly meet the user’s expectations.

SVF NANOPLUS

Combining DAIWA’s ultra-high-density SVF carbon with Toray’s Nanoalloy® Technology, this construction achieves a thinner, lighter, and more powerful blank with superior strength and reduced weight.

3DX

This honeycomb-pattern support layer wraps around the blank’s outer surface to dramatically boost recovery speed and stability. When the blank bends under load, its cross-section slightly flattens. 3DX helps it return to its original round shape quickly, minimizing tip wobble and enhancing casting consistency and distance.

V-JOINT α

An evolved version of DAIWA’s original V-JOINT, this advanced joint uses high-strength Nanoalloy® material and precision processing to create smoother bends, improved durability, and lighter overall construction. The thinner joint profile allows for a slimmer blank and enhanced casting follow-through—ideal for repetitive casting.

(Inro joint type)

X45

By integrating ±45° bias layers into the traditional 0°/90° carbon weave, X45 prevents blank twisting under the dynamic stresses of casting, hook-setting, and fighting fish. The result is a significant boost in power, control, and sensitivity.

Product Details

■ A Versatile Lineup to Match Event Category and Physical Strength

From inland casting competitions using lightweight sinkers to heavier disciplines (Category 2 and 6) using 30-size sinkers, this rod series offers a broad range of models to suit both competition type and caster strength. New additions include the supple 27 model and the 43 model, which combines the strengths of the 42 and 44 sizes for enhanced versatility.

■ Slimmer Blanks with Seamless Bend – V-Joint α Spigot Ferrule

This rod utilizes a spigot ferrule (inro joint) structure, known for its smooth bend transition at the joint, preventing power loss and enabling slimmer blank construction by reducing taper constraints. The integration of DAIWA’s V-Joint α further enhances seamless bending and power transmission throughout the rod.

■ Butt Section Length Design for Faster Initial Sink Speed

A unique #3B extended butt section design (3-piece rod with an extra-long base section) boosts initial sinker speed. By lengthening the blank between the reel seat and joint—the area where power accumulates most—the rod maximizes the caster’s energy release and delivers a solid casting feel.

Note on Spigot Joints: The spigot ferrule is intentionally adjusted to leave a slight visible gap when assembled. As long as there’s no looseness, the rod is engineered for optimal strength and performance. Use with confidence.

■ 3DX for Outstanding Restorative Power

The blank’s outermost layer features 3DX, a three-axis carbon sheet woven in a hexagonal pattern. This structure offers uniform strength from all directions, providing excellent shape recovery (quick return after flex) and enabling even power casters to achieve smooth and controlled casting performance.

Additional Features

• Two-piece adjustable balancer
• Cushioned rod case