I have two Veritas rods and it doesn't pay to voice an opinion on this site. The shop I had taken them to for repair hadn't done so, I decided I had waited long enough and so last week I repaired both of them myself.

The only comment I will make is that some rods are made for casting, some for fishing. I prefer a softer rod aimed at fishing and getting the most out of fish in the size range we normally catch. I tend to follow European anglers in this respect, their rods are in a world of their own with a price to match.

My favourite rod by far is an Okuma and when purchased I extended the butt by a few centimeters, it is now fifteen foot long. Sad to say this is a model no longer available, I know because I have just tried to buy another one.

I have just purchased another rod but I will say nothing about it as I have not really had time to put it through a true test.

If you are serious about a tripod then look on Trademe, there are some great bargains to be found there. Just recently I saw the ideal tripod for the beach angler, it went for three dollars.