Many US manufacturers seem to ignore travel rods, or treat them as an afterthought, but Megabass has seemingly embraced the concept. Why is it important to the company to have multi-piece rods?
While many U.S. manufacturers treat travel rods as an afterthought, Megabass has fully embraced them. Why? Because multi-piece rods represent freedom—freedom to explore, travel, and fish without compromise. Developing high-performance travel rods takes time, skill, and vision, and we’re committed to creating rods that shatter expectations. As lifestyles evolve, anglers around the world are seeking portability without sacrificing performance. Our mission is to deliver that—gear that enriches the experience and becomes part of your journey.
Are the travel rod options the same in the JDM market as in the US?
Yes, to an extent—our TRIZA and VALKYRIE WORLD EXPEDITION MULTI series are fully available in both Japan and the U.S. markets. While additional models exist in Japan and other international markets, the core multi-piece offerings are globally aligned for anglers everywhere.
What are the differences in construction and components amongst each series?
Each TRIZA rod is a 3-piece system engineered with precision. The unique connector system imparts Tension, Torque, and Torsional Rigidity to each section, delivering featherlight handling that defies multi-piece norms. The EXCLUSIVE TIP system allows for action customization—switch between regular and fast actions to match your technique. Recognized with the iF Design Award, TRIZA is more than travel-ready—it’s revolutionary.For instance, the F7-72XTZ DRAGOON’s standard tip has a REGULAR action, ideal for retrieving big baits and swimbaits. By switching to the EXCLUSIVE TIP (sold separately), the action changes to FAST, making it suitable for jigging or Texas rigs in heavy cover. This allows the same rod to be used for completely different techniques. Additionally, the TRIZA series has been recognized for its artistic design and has won the prestigious iF Design Award. We plan to continue expanding the EXCLUSIVE TIP system and introduce other multi-piece rod components.
VALKYRIE WORLD EXPEDITION
The VALKYRIE WORLD EXPEDITION MULTI series features a Nano Matrix Composite Shaft that combines ultra-lightweight, high-sensitivity carbon and high-tensile glass fiber layered in four layers. This design distributes the weight of heavy lures across the entire rod while harnessing the carbon material’s resilience for casting power. This combination of materials provides tremendous lifting power and torque, allowing anglers to subdue even the strongest fish while the glass’s flexibility reduces the chances of lost catches. As one of the most powerful rod series in our lineup, and with excellent portability, the VALKYRIE WORLD EXPEDITION MULTI is ideal for anglers seeking to catch trophies around the world – along with trophy fresh and saltwater species in our own backyard. This series has also won both the iF Design Award and the Good Design Award.
What other countries express significant market demand for multi-piece rods?
Multi-piece rods are rising in popularity in markets with compact vehicles and evolving angler lifestyles. Global exposure through social media has sparked interest in fishing travel, and thanks to innovations like TRIZA, more anglers are realizing that high-performance and portability can coexist.
What are the engineering challenges of making a multi-piece rod versus a single piece rod?
It’s all about the joints. Achieving a seamless bend and perfect balance in a multi-piece rod is far more complex than in a one-piece design. Prioritizing strength often adds weight, while pursuing lighter builds can compromise durability. Striking that ideal balance is an engineering feat we pursue relentlessly, with every rod tested and refined under real-world conditions.
Is it possible to make a 3-piece rod that performs like a one-piece? What about 4 or 5 piece rods?
Yes—and in some cases, even better. While adding joints traditionally added weight or reduced sensitivity, Megabass has developed proprietary technologies that allow our multi-piece rods to compete with, and sometimes outperform, their one-piece counterparts. Each joint is engineered to serve a purpose, not just connect segments.
Many travel rods are bland, but Megabass seems to adorn theirs with the same artistic touches as on the company’s other products. Why?
All Megabass products are designed by Yuki Ito, the founder of Megabass, who focuses on inspired ergonomics to achieve an integrated feel with the body. Our rod designs have received high praise worldwide, and Ito has been awarded numerous international design awards, including the prestigious iF Design Award and Red Dot Design Award.
Add YourSome of your rods, like the Triza Dragoon and the Valkyrie World Expedition, are niche rods. Where do you get the inspiration for specific models?
We build rods for anglers who seek more—from the gear they carry to the adventures they chase. Whether it’s fitting your entire setup into a carry-on or landing a fish of a lifetime, these rods are built for dreamers and doers. They allow anglers to explore the world with confidence, connection, and craft.
What steps should anglers take in transporting/assembling/disassembling to make sure that their multi-piece rods perform flawlessly?
- Always use the rod case. A rod bag alone may not prevent scratches or breakage during travel.
- Seat joints properly. Ensure each ferrule is snug—but don’t force it. A small visible gap at each joint indicates correct assembly.
- Avoid loose joints. Casting with unseated segments can cause separation or damage.
- Disassemble carefully. Over-tightened joints can be difficult to separate and may lead to wear.
Proper care ensures your rod performs at its best—trip after trip.
