I recently received the new Baby Rodzilla 5:5 from Wasatch Tenkara Rods (WTR BR5:5), courtesy of Ruben Garza. While the Baby Rodzilla has been in circulation for a while, it has only been available in a 6:4 version. This new version is advertised to be a 5:5 flex profile small stream rod.
Description
Rather than go through all the usual rod description, I’m going to point you to the 6:4 version reviewed by Mike Agneta. The 5:5 version looks the same as the 6:4 version and so referring you to Mike’s review seems appropriate. It is an excellent review and very comprehensive regarding that version of the rod.
As far as the new 5:5 version I received, as mentioned, it looks exactly the same as the 6:4 version, except that it has “5:5” printed on the rod sleeve and handle section.
Measurements
| Characteristic | Measurement | 6:4 version* |
|---|---|---|
| Sections | 9 | same |
| Handle Length | 20 cm (7.9 in.) | same |
| Nested (w/tip plug) | 49 cm (19.3 in.) | same |
| Extended | 240 cm (7 ft. 10.5 in.) 275 cm (9 ft.) 306.5 cm (10 ft. 0.7 in.) | 239 cm (7.8 ft.) 273 cm (9 ft.) 304 cm (10 ft.) |
| Weight (w/o tip plug) | 76.1 g (2.7 oz.) | 78 g (2.75 oz.) |
| CCS | 16 pennies 20 pennies 21 pennies | 16 pennies 19 pennies 23 pennies |
| RFI | 6.7 / 7:3 Fast Tip Flex 7.3 / 7:3 Fast Tip Flex 6.9 / 7:3 Fast Tip Flex | 6.7 / 7:3 Fast Tip Flex 7.0 / 7:3 Fast Tip Flex 7.6 / 7:3 Fast Tip Flex |
*6:4 measurements from Mike Agneta’s review.
Performance
As can be seen from the 10 Penny Bend Profile, the WTR BR5:5 has a soft tip but stiffer T2 and T3 sections. Even under light loads, the BR5:5 doesn’t start to bend until the upper sections of the rod. Its bend profile is more in line with a 7:3 than a 5:5. This is true at all extended lengths. The DRAGONtail Mizuchi is a 6:4 rod. It starts its bend further down the rod than the BR5:5. The Nissin Air Stage Fujiryu 5:5 is a true 5:5 rod, starting its bend in the middle section of the rod (that’s why it is under the two stiffer rods in this image). Just because the BR5:5 is labeled as 5:5 that doesn’t make it so. Measurements such as the RFI and 10 penny Bend profile don’t lie.
I also found it curious that the CCS and RFI measurements of the BR5:5 are not that much different from the 6:4 version Mike Agneta reviewed back in January of 2023. That shows that the two rods really aren’t that much different.
Although it seems that I’m being critical of the BR5:5, I’m not trying to be. All I’m trying to do is point out that the description for this rod doesn’t match its measurements. But disregarding measurements, is the BR5:5 fun to use? Yes it is! I used a #3 fluorocarbon level line that with tippet came in at about 320 cm. Despite its 7:3 profile, the BR5:5 cast the line well at all three extended lengths. I varied my flies from unweighted to bead head. The rod cast all flies well.
I fished a small stream mostly using the 306 cm length. I caught rainbow trout in the 8-10 inch range. Of course, these trout weren’t very challenging, yet they were fun to fight with this rod. The BR5:5 was a real pleasure to use. Hooksets were fast and decisive. Line accuracy was good as well.
Conclusion
Although I wish that the Wasatch Tenkara Baby Rodzilla 5:5 rod was a true 5:5 small stream rod, it just isn’t. Its RFI and 10 Penny Bend profile put it in the 7:3 range, so the advertised 5:5 profile is incorrect. This doesn’t make it a bad rod or one to avoid. It just means that the advertising doesn’t match the measurements. But most importantly, the rod is fun to use. It casts a light level line well, and hooksets are quick along with very good fish fighting power. I really enjoyed fishing with it. Also, its short nested length (under twenty inches) makes it easy to carry in a backpack or sling. That’s a plus!
Small stream rods tend to take a real beating on the stream due to hitting tree limbs, hooking snags, and the frequent collapsing/extending that is required when moving from lie to lie. Because of this, small stream rods are at increased risk of breaking. Wasatch Tenkara Rods has a track record of having very robust rods and it is likely that the BR5:5 is no exception. If you are looking for a robust, multi-length small stream rod in the 8-10 foot range, and can overlook that it’s not really a 5:5 flex profile, then take a look at this rod. I enjoyed fishing with this rod and you might too.
Disclaimer: My opinion regarding this rod is just that, my opinion. Your opinion may differ. Also, your rod may not have the same length, issues, or functionality as my rod. There are variations between rods, even in the same production run. No description can fully tell you how a rod feels or fishes. For this, you must personally hold, cast, and fish the rod then make up your own mind. I was sent the rod by Wasatch Tenkara Rods to review. There was no expectation of a positive review.
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