GROOVE – Gravitation

Supervised by Makoto Kato

A new-concept Tai Rubber (Tai-rubber jig) rod developed under the guidance of Makoto Kato, captain of the charter boat GROOVE in the Kanmon Straits. Designed for fast-current environments where traditional approaches struggled, this rod was born from discarding conventional ideas to fully master the Tai-rubber game. The result is GRAVITATION, a radically innovative Tai-rubber rod that challenges all previous conventions.

Specifications

• Construction: Grip-joint 2-piece rod (1-piece blank)
• Blanks:
  • GRVC-LCT60ML: Tubular blank, 24t graphite
  • GRVC-TRS69M & GRVS-VAS64M: Full solid carbon blank, 24t graphite
• Guides: Fuji K-Guides with SiC rings
  • Top guide: T-KTSG titanium frame
  • Tip to belly section: Titanium frame SiC-S
  • Butt section: Stainless frame SiC-S

GRVC-TRS69M – Power-Type Reeling Rod

This model is designed with extremely reinforced power from the belly to the butt, optimized for strong reeling. By taking advantage of the suspension effect inherent in solid blanks, it provides stable reeling even under heavy load conditions, such as fast currents.

Sensitivity is excellent, delivering clear and precise bite detection reminiscent of modern high-performance Aji rods. At the same time, the rod’s full blank allows for deep, hooking control, “wrapping” the fish effectively upon strike. The solid blank’s combination of flexibility and stiffness ensures responsive follow-through even against powerful runs, preventing the fish from taking control. It is suitable for a wide range of depths, from shallow to deep water.

Recommended Reels:
Best paired with a reel that offers smooth rotation and strong torque. The rod is balanced to transfer weight naturally to the angler’s hand when using a firm, reeling-focused reel, maximizing efficiency and comfort during long retrieves.