News

One of the most iconic sea fishing rods brands in the UK – Zziplex – which closed its doors last year is now back in business thanks a deal with fellow rod manufacturer Century.

Zziplex was set up by Terry and Barbara Carroll in 1987 after Terry had already gained a strong foundation in rod and blank manufacturing and had registered the Zziplex trademark in 1981.

Through his successful experience in fishing and competitive casting during the late 1960s and 1970s he was able to combine these formidable attributes into his new company to produce a range of legendary shore rods.

Terry’s rod designs prevailed over decades and gained a dedicated following, making him one of the biggest single influences on the casting and shore fishing scene in the UK.

Terry passed away in 2015 and, although Zziplex carried on successfully under Barbara’s guidance, in 2022 she decided the time had come to retire and she was left with the dilemma of what to do with the business.

Initially her thoughts followed her heart and she decided to close the company as she wanted Terry’s lifetime work to be remembered as it was and not be outsourced or materially altered in the future.

However, Barbara was approached by Century director Michael Chilcott, who promised continuity and integrity regarding Terry’s legacy and his lifetime’s work,

Michael said: “We regard this as a significant responsibility and Century will faithfully carry forward Terry’s designs, manufacturing process and production materials into the future.

“All Zziplex rods and blanks will be manufactured at Washington, in the northeast of England according to his specific methods and processes using his original mandrel tooling specifications with his original carbon and glass fibre pattern architecture.

“There will be continuity in the design concepts and underlying principles of construction, with all Zziplex rods being made in England.”

Former owner Barbara Carroll added: “Zziplex has been a huge part of my life for over 40 years but last year I took the decision that it was now time to retire.

“I am very happy to have found a UK company which has a longstanding manufacturing tradition and the resources to ensure Zziplex rods will continue to be produced and cherished by the loyal anglers that supported Terry and myself.”

www.zziplex.uk