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Minagiman's Fishing Adventures in Japan
Daiwa 25 Skyhigh: A Versatile Seabass Rod With a Carbon Monocoque Rear Grip
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Daiwa’s 25 Skyhigh is a versatile rod centred on seabass but able to cover flatfish such as flounder, and even black sea bream (chinu). Its standout feature is a carbon monocoque rear grip, which Daiwa says is a first for a seabass rod. It was released in Japan in April 2025, priced at ¥21,800–25,300 before tax.
Key features
1. A light, strong blank
To handle seabass, ribbonfish and even yellowtail, the blank uses HVF carbon, making it light but strong. In shore jigging you jerk and make big rod movements, so low weight matters over a long session.
2. K guides
Most models use K guides, which reduce line tangles so you can work lures as you want and focus on fishing instead of line trouble.
3. Carbon monocoque rear grip
A carbon monocoque rear grip increases stiffness, so you can use more of the blank’s recovery when casting. It also looks good, which adds to the pleasure of owning it.
Technology
- X45: carbon fibres crossed at ±45° to reduce twisting under load, improving sensitivity and power
- Air Sensor Seat: a carbon-fibre reinforced reel seat for lower weight, better sensitivity and handling
- HVF carbon: less resin binding the carbon fibres means higher fibre density, for strength and staying power under load
Specs
All models are two-piece with a reverse-spigot joint. Prices are Japanese list prices before tax.
| Model | Length | Weight | Lure | PE (Japan no.) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 86ML | 2.59 m | 125 g | 7–35 g | 0.6–1.5 | ¥21,800 |
| 86M | 2.59 m | 135 g | 10–50 g | 0.8–2.0 | ¥22,300 |
| 90L | 2.74 m | 125 g | 5–28 g | 0.5–1.2 | ¥21,800 |
| 90ML | 2.74 m | 131 g | 7–35 g | 0.6–1.5 | ¥22,300 |
| 96ML | 2.90 m | 136 g | 7–35 g | 0.6–1.5 | ¥22,800 |
| 96M | 2.90 m | 148 g | 10–50 g | 0.8–2.0 | ¥23,300 |
| 96MH | 2.90 m | 155 g | 12–60 g | 1.0–2.5 | ¥23,800 |
| 100ML | 3.05 m | 146 g | 7–35 g | 0.6–1.5 | ¥23,800 |
| 100M | 3.05 m | 153 g | 10–50 g | 0.8–2.0 | ¥24,300 |
| 100MH | 3.05 m | 165 g | 12–60 g | 1.0–2.5 | ¥24,800 |
| 106M | 3.20 m | 166 g | 10–50 g | 0.8–2.0 | ¥24,800 |
| 106MH | 3.20 m | 174 g | 12–60 g | 1.0–2.5 | ¥25,300 |
Which one?
- 90ML / 96ML: all-round seabass in harbours, rivers and estuaries
- 100M / 106M: surf flounder and longer casts with 10–50 g lures
- 96MH / 100MH / 106MH: light shore jigging and bigger lures up to 60 g
- 86ML / 90L: lighter, shorter rods for chinu and small lures
My take
Beyond its versatility, the 25 Skyhigh brings a carbon monocoque rear grip to a seabass rod in the low ¥20,000s. With 12 models, it is easy to find one that fits the fishing you do most.
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ABOUT ME
Born in 1994. Originally from Hyogo Prefecture, I moved to Iwata City in Shizuoka Prefecture in search of the sea. I am an Enshunada surf angler who enjoys surf fishing. I am also active on YouTube, and my fishing grounds range from Irago to Iwata.
