Souls, a brand synonymous with craftsmanship and precision, has been creating high-quality fishing gear since December 2004. Guided by the philosophy of their director, Ichiro Sato, Souls emphasizes high-frequency field testing across diverse environments to deliver top-notch fishing gear. Among their lineup is the Souls TF-E50ULS-2P-TZ "The Naturalist Special," which I’ll explore in detail today.

The Souls TF-E50ULS-2P-TZ: Origins and Design

The full name of this masterpiece is Souls TF-E50ULS-2P-TZ "The Naturalist Special," and each element of the name tells a story:

• TF stands for “Trout Finalist,” emphasizing its trout-specific design.
• E represents the “Explorer” series.
• ULS indicates “Ultralight,” referring to its power class.
• 2P signifies its two-piece design.
• TZ highlights the use of Torzite guide inserts, a premium choice.
• “The Naturalist Special” reveals its exclusive production for The Naturalist Riverside pro shop. Japanese store for trout enthusiasts.

The shop specializes in products related to native trout fishing, offering a selection of high-end items such as handcrafted balsa lures, one-of-a-kind landing nets, leather crafts, and vintage reels. You could say it is the premier shop for exclusive items (albeit at a premium price).

This rod is rare. Only 30 units were produced in 2018, adding an air of exclusivity to its legacy. Custom features distinguish it from the standard Explorer series, including black details, an ebony reel seat, emerald green thread, and an Explorer logo, paying homage to mountain streams.

How I Acquired This Rod

Finding a 1-in-30 exclusive rod was all about luck. I stumbled upon it in a Japanese auction. Despite minor scuffs on the handle and wood insert, the rod was in excellent condition—and I got it at a steal as the only bidder. I guess the rod being incorrectly categorized on the auction page had something to do with my lucky win.

Specifications and Performance

Length and Weight

The rod measures 152 cm (5 feet), ideal for small, fast-flowing rivers, especially those with overgrown banks. At 89 grams, it’s slightly heavier for its length but pairs well with lightweight reels like the Daiwa Luvias Airity (170 g). I found the setup balanced and comfortable, suitable for reels up to 200 g.

Handle and Reel Seat

The 21 cm cork handle is ergonomic and well-suited for one-handed casts. The custom reel seat features an ebony wood insert with black accents—a premium touch typically reserved for the Avantgarde series. However, the reel seat’s tightening nut is a minor downside. It requires significant force to adjust, sometimes causing discomfort, to the point of forming blisters on my palm.

Components and Build

The rod features Fuji K series guides with Torzite inserts, ensuring top-notch durability and performance. The glossy black blank with emerald green accents adds a luxurious feel, setting it apart from the standard Explorer series.

Lure and Line Ratings

• Lure weight: 1–7 g.
• Line rating: 2–6 lb.

The rod excels with trout lures in the 3–5 g range, providing precise casting within a 10–15 m distance—perfect for small streams. Smaller minnows (up to 6 cm) are animated beautifully, thanks to the rod’s fast action with a soft, forgiving touch.

On the Water: Fishing Experience

The Souls Explorer offers a near-perfect balance between snappy casting and smooth fish fighting. Bites are easily detected, even with smaller trout and mono lines. Its fast yet forgiving action shines during both lure manipulation and fish play, enhancing the angler’s overall experience.

Final Touches: Craftsmanship and Aesthetics

The attention to detail is unparalleled. From the emerald green thread symbolizing mountain streams to the dragon crest on the rod butt, every aspect reflects Souls’ dedication to excellence.

The rod bag also stands out with its checkered pattern and silver-threaded Souls logo, elevating it far above the sea of cheap, plasticky rod bags.

Conclusion: Worth the Investment?

At a price of ¥55,000–¥65,000 (New), the Souls TF-E50ULS-2P-TZ is undoubtedly a luxury item, but it justifies its cost with unparalleled craftsmanship and precision. It’s a rod tailored for native trout fishing in small streams, excelling in every aspect of its intended use.

For those passionate about trout fishing and looking for a rod that feels like an extension of their hand, this is an investment in joy and performance.