The Japanese article was first published on 11 September 2022 and last updated on 14 July 2025. Its later assessment appears first; the early impressions are retained below.
After more time with the rod
My opinion of the HSR-63 Type III changed as I used it.
The belly now feels softer, making the rod easier to use. With it like this, perhaps it could cover everything I need—in a certain sense, anyway.
When it was new, only the tip felt floppy. Now, the vibrations of a bite seem to connect through to the belly, giving a supple, sensitive feel.
The curve under a fish has become closer to the LUXXE type. It now feels as though landing fish should be straightforward too.
For me, this becomes a top-class rod once it has had plenty of use.
My earlier impressions
What follows is what I thought soon after buying it. It feels like a different rod now.
The butt feels like a long stick. I cannot really feel a belly section at work, and the tip is floppy—though the sensitivity is quite good.
Then, a fish on! I bring it towards me as it pulls and thrashes from side to side. “This might be a big one…”
The fish rises into view. It is considerably smaller than I imagined!
Of course, the fight is thoroughly enjoyable. And with that long butt section, it does look as though a larger fish could be lifted out smoothly.
Perhaps, in a way, this is a rod for someone who can afford to take a more relaxed approach to ajing. Hmm. It is difficult to say.
At this stage, it does not get much use at this spot. Still, I can imagine reaching for it one day, when certain conditions—including my mood—are right.
Read this article on Passionable Fishing (日本語) ↗