Daiwa 2 Piece Connoisseur Pro Match Rod - 11ft 6in - 2-12g

Connoisseur Pro Match 11ft 6in

The Connoisseur Pro Match in 11ft 6in is a compact, lightweight float rod designed for anglers who want speed, precision and control on wild waters and busy close-range swims.

Built for mid-water waggler work and short-to-medium range float fishing where bites can come quickly, it stays crisp in the hand while retaining the backbone to deal with the occasional bigger “bonus” fish.

Craftsmanship & Construction

This 11ft 6in edition is constructed using High Volume Fibre with nanoplus enhancement, reinforced with torque-resistant X45 in key areas to help maintain stability under load.

It’s finished with SeaGuide HLG line guides and a duo Duplon Armlock handle, delivering a purposeful, match-focused build aimed at repeatable casting and reliable fish-playing control.

Fit & Comfort

With a short overall length and a notably light build, the 11ft 6in model is tuned for fast handling—ideal when you’re striking regularly, feeding little-and-often, and keeping everything moving in a busy swim.

The duo Duplon Armlock handle is designed to sit securely during active float work, supporting comfortable line control and frequent casting cycles.

Key Features

• 11ft 6in 2-piece match float rod for close-range and mid-water waggler fishing
• High Volume Fibre with nanoplus enhancement for a modern, responsive blank
• X45 torque resistance in key areas to help reduce twist and improve control
• SeaGuide HLG line guides for smooth line flow and dependable performance
• Duo Duplon Armlock handle for secure handling during active float work
• Lightweight build for rapid bite detection and quick, repeatable casting

Materials & Care

Blank material and technologies: High Volume Fibre, nanoplus enhancement, and X45 torque resistance. Hardware includes SeaGuide HLG line guides and a duo Duplon Armlock handle.

Care guidance is not provided.

Specifications

• Model: CNPM116W-CU
• Length: 11ft 6in
• Sections: 2
• Rod weight: 130g
• Recommended casting weight: 2–12g
• Recommended lines: 2–8lb
• Closed length: 179cm

CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH Review

The Connoisseur Pro Match is a float rod range built for anglers who value crisp control on wild waters, and the 11ft 6in version leans into fast, close-range performance.

With a notably light 130g build and a compact two-piece format, it’s well suited to mid-water waggler work and busy swims where frequent bites demand quick reactions and clean line management.

CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH Performance & Key Features

The 11ft 6in model is tuned for speed: short enough for tight, accurate float work while still offering the backbone to cope with larger fish when needed. Its 2–12g casting weight range aligns neatly with classic waggler and close-range float tactics, and the recommended 2–8lb line rating keeps it versatile for mixed venues.

• 11ft 6in length suits controlled, close-range float fishing
• 2–12g casting weight supports typical waggler and float setups
• High Volume Fibre with nanoplus and X45 for stability and response
• SeaGuide HLG guides to promote smooth casting and line control
• Ideal for busy swims where bites are frequent and timing matters

Build Quality & Handling

High Volume Fibre with nanoplus enhancement and X45 reinforcement in key areas point to a blank designed to stay composed under pressure, helping reduce twist and maintain control through the strike and the fight.

At 130g, handling is light and quick—well matched to active float work—while SeaGuide HLG guides and the duo Duplon Armlock handle complete a match-oriented, hard-working finish.

Is CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH Easy to Use?

Yes—this 11ft 6in version is straightforward for classic float setups thanks to its compact length, light weight and versatile recommended line and casting ratings.

The two-piece design keeps transport and assembly simple, while the handle and guide specification support confident casting cycles and consistent line control.

• Two-piece format keeps setup and pack-down uncomplicated
• Light 130g build makes repeated casting and striking less fatiguing
• Balanced ratings make it easy to match to common float tactics

Key Takeaways of the CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH

If you want a responsive float rod for close-range work and mid-water wagglers, the 11ft 6in Connoisseur Pro Match stands out for its low weight, crisp handling and confidence-inspiring backbone. The High Volume Fibre blank with nanoplus enhancement and X45 reinforcement prioritises stability and control, while SeaGuide HLG guides and the duo Duplon Armlock handle underline its match-focused intent. It’s best suited to anglers who expect frequent bites and want a rod that keeps pace without feeling fragile. For Uttings.co.uk customers seeking a premium, compact float rod for busy swims and mixed catches, it’s a compelling, performance-led choice.

CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH FAQs

What style of fishing is the 11ft 6in CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH best suited to?

This model is designed for close-range float work and mid-water waggler fishing, particularly where bites are frequent and speed matters. The shorter length helps with control in tighter swims while staying responsive for quick striking and line management.

How does the 2–12g casting weight range translate on the bank?

A 2–12g casting weight is well aligned with typical float setups used for close-range and waggler tactics. It supports accurate, repeatable casting with sensible float weights while keeping the blank responsive for bite detection.

What line strength is recommended for the CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH 11ft 6in?

The recommended line range is 2–8lb. This gives a broad working window for light float fishing through to stronger hooklength and mainline choices where larger fish may be a possibility.

How lightweight is the 11ft 6in model, and why does it matter?

It weighs 130g, which is notably light for a match float rod. That reduced weight helps when you’re casting and striking repeatedly, keeping handling sharp and fatigue lower during long sessions.

What blank technologies are used in the CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH?

The blank uses High Volume Fibre with nanoplus enhancement, and torque-resistant X45 in key areas. Together, these are aimed at delivering a responsive feel while helping the rod stay stable and controlled under load.

Does the rod use quality guides, and what are they?

Yes. The range is fitted with SeaGuide HLG line guides, which support smooth line flow and dependable performance for regular float casting and controlled fish playing.

How portable is the CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH 11ft 6in?

This model is a two-piece design with a closed length of 179cm. That format balances easy transport with a straightforward assembly, making it practical for regular venue hopping.

Is this rod only for small fish, or can it handle bigger “bonus” fish too?

While it’s designed for fast float work where lots of bites are expected, it’s also described as having adequate backbone where required. That makes it a strong option when bigger fish may turn up unexpectedly in a close-range swim.

What handle type does the CONNOISSEUR PRO MATCH use?

It features a duo Duplon Armlock handle. This is designed to provide secure handling during active float fishing, supporting consistent control through regular casting and striking.

For more options, explore the full range of Daiwa match rods here.