WO2013010219A1

WO2013010219A1 - Fishing rod handle

Info

Publication number: WO2013010219A1
Application number: PCT/AU2012/000859
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alex KOTSALIDIS; Gregory Nicholas NARIS
Original assignee: BLACK MARLIN AUSTRALIA Pty Ltd
Current assignee: BLACK MARLIN AUSTRALIA Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2011-07-19
Filing date: 2012-07-17
Publication date: 2013-01-24
Anticipated expiration: 2014-01-19

Abstract

A fishing rod handle adapted for attachment to a fishing rod comprising a distal end and a butt end, with a rod axis extending therebetween, wherein the handle comprises: a first generally rectilinear handle segment having a first end adapted for attachment to a butt end of the fishing rod, and a second end, with an axis extending therebetween, wherein the first handle segment is adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod in a generally co -axial arrangement therewith; a fishing reel attachment portion adapted for releasably attaching a fishing reel to the first segment such that, when attached, the reel extends from the axis of the rod in a reel plane; and a second generally rectilinear handle segment adapted for attachment to a second end of the first segment, wherein the second segment extends from the first section at an angle to the axis of the fishing rod and the first segment, wherein, in use, the second handle segment is adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user and thereby to enable the user to apply axial rotational force to the rod handle to suppress axial rotation of the fishing rod when in use fighting a fish.

Description

FISHING ROD HANDLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[ 0001 ] The present invention relates to fishing equipment generally and to equipment for fishing rod handles in particular.

[ 0002 ] The invention has been developed primarily for use as equipment for construction of ergonomic, multipurpose handles for fishing rods designed for secure hand-held or gimballed use and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

BACKGROUND

[ 0003 ] Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field.

[ 0004 ] With the ever increasing popularity of the pastime of fishing, anglers are constantly seeking fishing equipment which provides efficient, comfortable use for the often long periods of time holding a fishing rod, particularly when fighting to reel in a fish. Such fishing equipment, in addition to being comfortable for the angler, must also operate functionally to assist the angler in reeling in a fish in an ergonomic manner to minimise or hopefully prevent unnecessary strains on the angler whilst retaining full control of the fishing rod.

[ 0005 ] Historically, the fishing rod handle has been merely an axial extension of the fishing rod itself, i.e. lying in the same rotationally symmetric plane thereof, essentially as a by product of the entire fishing rod and handle being integrally constructed.

[ 0006 ] There have been numerous attempts at improvements to fishing rod handle structure to provide increased ergonomic use of the fishing rod, for example as seen in US Patent No.s 3296732, 4130960, 5390438, 5426884, 5992079, 6067741, and 7854086 and US application No. 2008/0028665. However, such rod handles disclosed therein invariably make it difficult to apply pressure whilst fighting a fish in a hand-held position without hyper-extension of the back (for example as shown in Figure 1) and the reel close to the body making it difficult to operate, or moving to uncomfortable positions that invariably make it impossible to maintain the pressure and reel in the fish at the same time or for the angler to move from a hand-held position to being able to locate the rod in a rod holder, or vice versa, whilst the rod is in use with the line played- out. Additionally, such earlier attempts often do not enable the rod to be used with a gimbal mount due to their particular focus on ergonomic hand-held operation. The particular configuration of these prior art rod handles restrict or often prevent entirely the rod being placed in such a holder, or gimbal mount.

[ 0007 ] US Patent No. 4688346 discloses a butt section designed for attachment to a proximal end of a fishing rod which extends out of the axial plane of the rod, however, this butt section is not suited for hand-held operation. Rather, the butt section is designed to be attached to heavy duty fishing rods with large deep sea grade fishing reels such as Penn International and Pen Senator reels, and is particularly designed by its bent configuration to be located in a fighting chair gimbal or fighting belt gimbal mount to provide a secure attachment point for the rod, reel and butt configuration, and is not designed for hand-held operation or casting, nor could it be used under the arm to be controlled if removed from the rod holder or gimbal mount whilst the fishing line is played out, or in the action of fighting and reeling in a fish caught on the line.

[ 0008 ] Accordingly, there is a need for an ergonomic handle for a fishing rod to minimise repetitive strains on the angler whilst maintaining full operational control and extra leverage of the fishing rod, and components for custom construction of such ergonomic fishing rod handles, including devices and methods for assisting the angler in maintain control of the rod whilst fighting a fish, particularly in respect of preventing or suppressing, or at least minimising axial rotational forces exerted on the rod.

[ 0009 ] There is also an unappreciated need to provide systems and methods for mounting a fishing reel to a fishing rod in alternate operating positions depending on the type of fishing reels required or preferred for a selected task.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[ 0010 ] It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome or at least ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art, or at least to provide a useful alternative to existing fishing rods, fishing rod handles, and components for fishing rod handles.

[ 0011 ] According to a first aspect there is provided a fishing rod handle adapted for attachment to a fishing rod. The fishing rod may comprise a distal end and a butt end, with a rod axis extending therebetween. The handle may comprise a first generally rectilinear handle segment. The first handle segment may comprise a first end adapted for attachment to a butt end of the fishing rod, and a second end, with an axis extending therebetween. The first handle segment may be adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod in a generally coaxial arrangement therewith. The handle may further comprise a fishing reel attachment portion adapted for releasably attaching a fishing reel to the first segment. When attached, the reel may extend from the axis of the rod in a reel plane. The handle may further comprise a second generally rectilinear handle segment. The second handle segment may be adapted for attachment to a second end of the first segment. The second segment may extend from the first section at an angle to the axis of the fishing rod and the first segment. In a particular arrangement, the second segment may extend generally upward at an angle to the axis of the fishing rod and the first segment.

[ 0012 ] In use, the second handle segment may be adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user. The fishing rod handle described herein enables the angler to hold the fishing rod in a relaxed operational handling position when in use. The rod handle positions the fishing rod and, more importantly, the fishing reel in a position whereby the angler can easily operate the reel whilst maintaining full control of the rod. The rod handle position provides greater leverage thus allowing the angler to apply greater force on a fish without hyperextension of the back. By bringing the reel to a lower position and pivoting the rod under the armpit the angler can lever the rod upward without the need for hyperextension of the body as is when using a straight rod. When using a conventional straight rod under the armpit (as depicted in Figure 1) the reel is high up and additional upward motion of the rod requires some degree of hyperextension of the lower back.

[ 0013 ] The construction of the handles disclosed herein provide greater casting accuracy as it forces a direct linear casting operative motion. The first segment of the rod handle may be optionally provided with an anti slip surface that provides comfort and support against axial rotation whilst in use. The rod handle second segment also may be optionally provided with an anti slip surface to allow casting to be conducted in a secure safe manner. The fishing rod handle described herein additionally enables the angler to suppress any axial rotational forces by holding the handle against the body by the users arm and supported by the armpit socket. The handle design herein is constructed to allow the rod handle angled segment to be at a length an angle that prevents axial rotation of the fishing rod when in use fighting a fish.

[ 0014 ] In an arrangement of the first aspect, there is provided fishing rod handle adapted for attachment to a fishing rod comprising a distal end and a butt end, with a rod axis extending therebetween, wherein the handle comprises: a first generally rectilinear handle segment having to 70, 40 to 60, 40 to 50, 50 to 80, 50 to 70, 50 to 60, 60 to 80, 60 to 70, or about 70 to 85 degrees, and may be approximately, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 5, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85 degrees.

[ 0018 ] Alternatively, the second handle portion may comprise an axis oriented with an external angle a from the axis of the first handle segment, and wherein the second handle portion extends out of the reel plane. The second handle portion may extend out of the reel plane at an angle β of between about 0 and about 60 degrees to the reel plane. In other arrangements, the angle β may be between about 0 to about 80, 0 to 75, 0 to 70, 0 to 65, 55, 0 to 50, 0 to 45, 0 to 40, O to 35, O to 30, O to 25, O to 20, O to 10, lOto 80, lO to 70, lO to 60, lO to 50, lO to 40, lO to 30, 10 to 20, 20 to 80, 20 to 70, 20 to 60, 20 to 50, 20 to 40, 20 to 30, 30 to 80, 30 to 70, 30 to 60, 30 to 50, 30 to 40, 40 to 80, 40 to 70, 40 to 60, 40 to 50, 50 to 80, 50 to 70, 50 to 60, 60 to 80, 60 to 70 or about 70 to 80 degrees, and may be approximately 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, or approximately 80 degrees.

[ 0019 ] The fishing rod handle may comprise a bent handle portion. The bent handle portion may comprise an fore-section having a fore-section axis. The bent handle section may comprise an aft -section having an aft section axis extending generally rearward from the lore-section at an angle to the fbre-section axis. The fore-section may be adapted to securely engage with either the first handle segment or the reel attachment means such that when engaged, the fbre-section is axially aligned with the axis of the first segment. The second handle segment may comprise a portion of the bent handle portion. The bent handle portion may be sized such that it may be inserted into a fishing rod holder whilst attached to a fishing rod handle. In particular arrangements, the bent handle portion may comprise one or more gimbal notches adapted to engage with a gimbal mount. In alternative arrangements, the butt cap may be formed from a resilient material. The resilient butt cap may be compressed under pressure from the anger's arm when in use held against the body under the armpit, whilst still being comfortable for the angler to hold for extended periods of time.

[ 0020 ] In a particular arrangement, the fishing rod handle may comprise a bent handle portion, wherein the bent handle portion comprises an fore-section having a fbre-section axis, and an aft-section having an aft section axis extending generally rearward from the fore-section at an angle to the fore-section axis, wherein the fore-section is adapted to securely engage with either the first handle segment or the reel attachment means such that when engaged, the fbre- section is axially aligned with the axis of the first segment. [ 0021 ] In other arrangements, the second handle segment may be reconfigurable between at least two locked positions. In the first locked position, the second handle segment may extend generally upward in the reel plane. In the second locked position, the second handle segment may extend generally downward in the reel plane. The second handle segment may be adapted to rotate out of the reel plane between the first and the second bcked positions. In other arrangements, the second handle segment may be adapted to be reconfigurably locked in one or more positions intermediate the first and second locked positions.

[ 0022 ] The second handle segment may comprise a reconfigurable locking mechanism adapted to be securely engaged with either the first handle segment or reel attachment means. The locking mechanism may comprise a pin locking systems wherein the second segment comprises a channel diametrically through the engaging end thereof and the first handle segment comprises a plurality of diametrically opposed, circumferential apertures therein, whereby the engaging end of the second segment is adapted to be inserted into a proximal end of the first segment such that the channel may be selectively aligned with a selected pair of diametrically opposed, circumferential apertures in the first segment, such that a securing pin may be passed through the pair of diametrically opposed, circumferential apertures and the channel thereby to securely engage the second segment with the first segment at a selected locked position The second segment may thus be selectively locked in a locked position whereby the second segment selectively extends from the first segment either upward or downward in the reel plane, or alternatively selectively extends f om the first segment out of the reel plane and an angle β to the reel plane.

[ 0023 ] In an alternative arrangement, the reconfigurable locking mechanism may comprise a release mechanism comprising secured and released states whereby, when the release mechanism is in the released state, the second segment may by selectively oriented with respect to the reel plane (whether selectively extending from the first segment either upward or downward in the reel plane, or alternatively selectively extending from the first segment out of the reel plane and an angle β to the reel plane) and wherein, when the release mechanism is in the secured state, the second segment is securely engaged with the first segment in a selected orientation thereto. The release mechanism may comprise a button release system as would be appreciated by the skilled addressee.

[ 0024 ] In particular arrangements, the fishing reel attachment portion may be adapted for attachment of a fishing reel in either of two operative positions. In the first operative position, the fishing reel (when attached) may extend generally downward in the reel plane. In the second operative position, the fishing reel (when attached) may extend generally upward in the reel plane.

[ 0025 ] In further, arrangements, the second handle segment may comprise a rotatable grip segment. The rotatable grip segment may be adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the second handle segment, or in other arrangement the rotatable grip may be adapted to the second segment end (butt cap or gimbal) to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the second handle segment to allow ergonomic rotation of the fishing rod and a user's hand during a casting action of the fishing rod. The rotatable grip segment in either arrangement may be adapted to be locked to prevent rotation of the rotatable grip segment once a casting action is completed. The second handle segment may be adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the second handle segment, to allow ergonomic rotation of the fishing rod and hand during a casting action. Alternatively, the end portion of the second handle segment may be adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the second handle segment. In alternate arrangements, the rotatable grip segment may be adapted to be fitted to both a bent rod handle as described herein, or to a conventional straight rod handle. The grip may be formed from a suitable resilient material such as a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate e.g. ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA), or similar polymer or copolymer materials, or cork.

[ 0026 ] In further arrangements, the second handle segment may comprise a non-slip surface and may be shaped ergonomically for enhanced friction with a user's body to prevent rotation of the fishing rod in use. The first handle segment may comprise a non-slip surface and may be shaped ergonomically to provide a secure grip on the handle by a user's hand. The non-slip surface may be formed from a suitable resilient material such as a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate e.g. ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA), or similar polymer or copolymer materials, or cork.

[ 0027 ] In still further arrangements, the handle may comprise a releasably attachable butt cap. The butt cap may be either generally cylindrical, generally rectangular or generally elliptical in cross-section, and may comprise a major axis and a minor axis, the major axis being greater than the minor axis. The butt cap may be adapted for attachment to an end of the second handle segment. In use, the butt cap may be securely attached to the fishing rod handle such that the major axis may be substantially in the reel plane and may be adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user to provide additional control and reduction of axial rotation of the rod when in use. The butt cap may be adapted for an ergonomic fit under the arm of the use when in use. In particular arrangements, the butt cap may be formed from a resilient material. The resilient butt cap may be compressed under pressure from the anger's arm when in use held against the body under the armpit, whilst still being comfortable for the angler to hold for extended periods of time.

[ 0028 ] In a second aspect there is provided a rod handle kit for construction of a fishing rod handle for attachment to a fishing rod comprising a distal end and a butt end, with a rod axis extending therebetween. The kit may comprise a first generally rectilinear handle segment. The first handle segment may comprise a first end adapted for attachment to a butt end of the fishing rod, and a second end, with an axis extending therebetween. The first handle segment may be adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod in a generally co-axial arrangement therewith.

[ 0029 ] The kit may further comprise a fishing reel seat for releasably attaching a fishing reel. The reel seat may be adapted for secure attachment to an end of the first handle segment in generally co-axial arrangement therewith.

[ 0030 ] The kit may further comprise an angled handle segment. The angled handle segment may comprise a first end adapted for coaxial attachment to an end of the reel seat and a second end extending at an angle to the axis of the first end. The angled handle section may be adapted for adjustment of the relative angle of the second end with the axis of the first end. The angled handle section may comprise a releasable locking mechanism whereby, when released, the relative angle of the second end may be adjusted with respect to the axis of the first end, and the second end may subsequently be, locked in a desired angled configuration.

[ 0031 ] The kit may further comprise a second generally rectilinear handle segment. The second handle segment may be adapted for attachment to the second end of the angled handle segment, such that the second handle segment extends non-coaxially to the first handle segment at an angle thereto.

[ 0032 ] In a particular arrangement of the second aspect, the kit for a fishing rod handle may comprise at least: a first generally rectilinear handle segment having a first end adapted for attachment to a butt end of the fishing rod, and a second end, with an axis extending therebetween, wherein the first handle segment may be adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod in a generally co-axial arrangement therewith; a fishing reel seat for releasably attaching a fishing reel, the reel seat adapted for secure attachment to an end of the first handle segment in generally co-axial arrangement therewith; an angled handle segment comprising a first end adapted for coaxial attachment to an end of the reel seat and a second end extending at an angle to the axis of the first end; a second generally rectilinear handle segment adapted for attachment to the second end of the angled handle segment, such that the second handle segment extends non-coaxially to the first handle segment at an angle thereto.

[ 0033 ] The reel seat may be adapted to selectively attach a fishing reel to the fishing rod in either of first or second operative reel positions, said positions being oppositely arranged on the fishing rod. The reel seat may be incorporated with the first handle segment, being axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the fishing rod and first handle segment.

[ 0034 ] The kit may comprise a reel seat comprising: a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the fishing rod, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod; and a second reel hood, adapted to be fixedly attached to the fishing rod, comprising at least two reel engagement notches, each adapted to selectively receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel, whereby, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel may be attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position.

[ 003S ] Alternatively, or in combination, the kit may comprise a reel seat comprising: a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the fishing rod, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod; and a second reel hood comprising a reel engagement notch, the second reel hood adapted to be selectably releasably secured to the fishing rod in either of two notch positions, such that each notch position enables the fishing reel to be selectively securely engaged with the fishing rod in either of the oppositely arranged operative positions, and wherein when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel may be attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position.

[ 0036 ] The rod handle kit may further comprise a butt section adapted for secure releasable attachment to the second handle segment. The butt section may be of generally rectangular cross-section comprising a major cross-sectional axis and a minor cross-sectional axis, the major cross-sectional axis being greater than the minor cross-sectional axis, wherein, in use, said butt portion may be adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user to provide additional control and reduction, or at least substantial suppression, of axial rotation of the rod when in use. The major cross-sectional axis may be substantially equal to the diameter of the fishing rod handle with generally circular cross section. The butt portion may further comprise at least one notch in an end thereof adapted for engagement of the butt portion with a fishing rod gimbal mount.

[ 0037 ] In a third aspect, there is provided, a reel seat for a fishing rod. The reel seat may be adapted to selectively attach a fishing reel to the reel seat rod in either of first or second operative reel positions. The first and second operative positions may be oppositely arranged on the reel seat. The first and second operative positions may be oppositely arranged on the reel seat with respect to an axis of the fishing rod, such that the fishing reel may be selectively arranged in either a generally downward or a generally upward direction with respect to the fishing rod.

[ 0038 ] In an arrangement of the third aspect, the reel seat being adapted to selectively attach a fishing reel to the reel seat in either of first or second operative reel positions, said positions being oppositely arranged on the reel seat.

[ 0039 ] In a particular arrangement of the third aspect, the reel seat may comprise a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the reel seat, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the reel seat. The reel seat may further comprise a second reel hood, adapted to be fixedly attached to the reel seat, comprising at least two reel engagement notches, each adapted to selectively receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel, whereby, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is attached to the reel seat in the selected operative position. The first reel hood may comprise a single engagement notch, and wherein the first reel hood is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the reel seat to selectively securely engage a fishing reel in either of the first or second operative positions.

[ 0040 ] In an alternate arrangement of the third aspect, the reel seat may comprise a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the reel seat, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the reel seat. The reel seat may further comprise a second reel hood comprising a reel engagement notch, the second reel hood adapted to be selectably releasably secured to the reel seat in either of two notch positions, such that each said notch position enables the fishing reel to be selectively securely engaged with the reel seat in either of the oppositely arranged operative positions wherein when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is attached to the reel seat in the selected operative position. The reel seat may further comprise a fixed engagement protrusion; and the second reel hood may comprise two engagement notches, each adapted to selectively releasably engage with the fixed engagement protrusion, oppositely opposed about the second reel hood, wherein the second reel hood is adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the reel seat to selectively engage one of the engagement notches with the fixed engagement protrusion thereby to select either of the operative reel positions, wherein, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is securely attached to the reel seat in the selected operative position.

[ 0041 ] The reel seat may form part of a handle of the fishing rod. A distal end of the reel seat may be adapted to engage with a fore-handle portion of the fishing rod, and a proximal end of the reel seat is adapted to engage an aft-handle portion of the fishing rod.

[ 0042 ] In a further arrangement of the third aspect, the reel seat may comprise: two oppositely opposed, axially extending reel engagement notches aligned with a central axis of the reel seat, said engagement notches adapted for receiving the fishing reel in either of the operative positions; a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the reel seat, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the reel seat; and a second reel hood comprising a reel engagement notch, the second reel hood adapted to be rotated about the axis of the reel seat, such that said notch is able to receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel in either of the operative positions, wherein, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is securely attached to the reel seat in the selected operative position.

[ 0043 ] In a further arrangement of the third aspect, the reel seat may comprise: two oppositely opposed, axially extending reel engagement features aligned with a central axis of the reel seat, said engagement notches adapted for receiving the fishing reel in either of the operative positions; a first reel hood comprising two reel engagement notch substantially aligned with the oppositely opposed reel engagement features, and movable between an open positbn to enable engagement of the fishing reel with a selected engagement feature of the reel seat and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the reel seat in the selected operative position; and a second reel hood comprising two reel engagement notch substantially aligned with the oppositely opposed reel engagement features, each notch adapted to receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel when engaged with the selected engagement feature, wherein, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is securely attached to the reel seat in the selected operative position. [ 0044 ] In any of the above arrangements of the reel seat, the first operative reel position may be adapted to attach the fishing reel in a generally downward direction, and the second operative reel position may be adapted to attach the fishing reel in a generally upward direction.

[ 0045 ] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided an elongate butt portion adapted for secure or releasable attachment to a proximal end of a handle of a fishing rod. The handle may be generally rectilinear with generally circular cross-section. The elongate butt portion may be of generally rectangular cross-section comprising a major cross-sectional axis and a minor cross- sectional axis, the major cross-sectional axis being greater than the minor cross-sectional axis. In use, the elongate butt portion may be adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user to provide additional control and reduction / suppression of axial rotation of the rod.

[ 0046 ] In an arrangement of the fourth aspect, there is provided an elongate butt portion adapted for attachment to a proximal end of a handle of a fishing rod, the handle being generally rectilinear with generally circular cross-section, the butt portion being of generally rectangular cross-section comprising a major cross-sectional axis and a minor cross-sectional axis, the major cross-sectional axis being greater than the minor cross-sectional axis, wherein, in use, the elongate butt portion is adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user to provide additional control and reduction / suppression of axial rotation of the rod, for example, when fighting a fish.

[ 0047 ] The major cross-sectional axis may be substantially equal to the diameter of the fishing rod handle with generally circular cross section. Accordingly, the fishing rod handle with the butt section attached may be inserted into an existing fishing rod holder without requiring removal o f the butt portion.

[ 0048 ] In particular arrangements, the elongate butt portion may further comprise at least one notch in an end thereof adapted for engagement of the butt portion with a fishing rod gimbal mount.

[ 0049 ] In further arrangements of any one or combination of the aspects or arrangements disclosed above, the second handle segment may have a "flattened" cross sectional profile thus providing the angler with additional control of the rod for reduction / suppression of axial rotation of the rod when in use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[ 0050 ] Arrangements of the above aspects will now be described, by way of an example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[ 0051 ] Figure 1 is a depiction of a conventional straight fishing rod handle in use by an angler, demonstrating excessive arching of the back required to provide sufficient leverage to the fishing rod when hand-held under the arm;

[ 0052 ] Figure 2A is a plan schematic depiction of a fishing rod handle according to a first aspect;

[ 0053 ] Figure 2B is a plan schematic depiction of an alternate arrangement of fishing rod handle according to the first aspect;

[ 0054 ] Figure 3A is a schematic depiction of the fishing handle of Figure 2A shown attached to a fishing rod and in use;

[ 0055 ] Figures 3B and 3C are schematic depictions of an further alternative arrangement of a fishing handle as disclosed herein shown attached to a fishing rod and in use;

[ 0056 ] Figure 3D is a schematic depictions of the fishing rod handle of Figure 2B as disclosed herein shown attached to a fishing rod and in use in conjunction with a gimbal belt;

[ 0057 ] Figure 4A is a plan stylised depiction of the fishing rod handle 100 of Figure 2A, shown with respect to a left-handed co-ordinate system;

[ 00583 Figure 4B is a plan stylised depiction of an alternative arrangement of the fishing rod handle 100 of Figure 2A, shown with respect to a left-handed co-ordinate system;

[ 0059 ] Figures 5A and SB are respectively schematic perspective end-on plan views of an alternate arrangement of a fishing rod handle as disclosed herein;

[ 0060 ] Figures 6, 7A to 7C, 8A to 8B and 9A to 9C depict various arrangements for constructing a fishing rod handle as disclosed herein;

[ 0061 ] Figure 10 depicts a fishing rod butt attachment adapted for use with a fishing rod handle;

[ 0062 ] Figure 11 depicts a schematic view of an alternate arrangement of a fishing rod handle as disclosed herein comprising a rotatable grip portion; [ 0063 ] Figures 12A to 12C depicts in respectively side plan, perspective, and top plan views, various arrangements of an elongate butt cap adapted for use with a fishing rod handle;

[ 0064 ] Figures 12D to 12F depict alternate arrangements of flattened butt sections adapted for use with a fishing rod handle; and

[ 0065 ] Figures 13A to 13B depict a reel seat adapted for use with a fishing rod handle to provide selectively attach a fishing reel to the fishing rod handle in either of first or second operative reel positions;

[ 0066 ] Figures 13C to 13D depict arrangements of a reel hood adapted for use with the reel seat of Figure 13A to 13B to selectively attach a fishing reel to the fishing rod handle in either of first or second operative reel positions; and

[ 0067 ] Figures 13E to 13G depict alternate arrangements of a reel seat, shown in cross- section, adapted for use with a fishing rod handle to provide selectively attach a fishing reel to the fishing rod handle in either of first or second operative reel positions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[ 0068 ] Referring to the drawings, in Figure 2A there is depicted a fishing rod handle 100 adapted for attachment to a fishing rod 150. The fishing rod 150 may comprise a distal end and a butt end 151, with a rod axis 153 extending therebetween. The handle 100 comprises a first generally rectilinear handle segment 101. The first handle segment comprises a first end 101a adapted for attachment to the butt end 151 of the fishing rod 150, and a second end 101b, with a central axis 103 extending therebetween. The first handle segment will typically comprise a proximal portion 101c, a reel seat 105, and a distal portion lOld.

[ 0069 ] The first handle segment 101 may preferably be adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod 150 in a generally co-axial arrangement therewith such that fishing rod axis 153 and first handle segment axis 103 are generally aligned.

[ 0070 ] The handle 100 comprises a fishing reel attachment portion, or reel seat, 105 adapted for releasably attaching a fishing reel 110 to the first segment 101. The reel seat 105 forms part of the first segment 101 located intermediate the proximal portion 101c, and distal portion lOld of the first handle segment. In the present arrangement, when attached to the first segment 101, reel 110 extends generally downward from the axis 153 of the rod and the first segment axis 103 to define a reel plane with respect to the co-aligned axes 103 and 153. [ 0071 ] The handle 100 further comprises a second generally rectilinear handle segment 107 comprising a first (distal) end 107a adapted for secure attachment to second end 101b of the first handle segment 101, and a second (proximal) end 107b of the second handle segment. The second segment 107 may extend from the first section 101 at an angle to the axis of the fishing rod and the first segment, i.e. the second segment 107 comprises an axis 109, such that, when the second segment 107 is engaged with the first segment 101 the second segment axis 109 is at an angle 111 a to the first segment axis 103. In a particular arrangement, the second segment 107 may extend generally upward at an angle 111 to the axes 103 and 153 of the first segment and the fishing rod respectively, when engaged therewith. The handle may further optionally include an end piece 127, releasably securable to the second end 107b of the second segment 107, which may for example be a gimbal mount or butt attachment, either of a conventional variety, or similar to gimbal and butt attachments disclosed herein.

[ 0072 ] Figure 2B shows an alternate arrangement 180 of a fishing rod handle as disclosed herein, wherein the handle comprises an elbow joint 130 interconnecting the proximal-portion 101c of first segment 101 to the second segment 207. The particular arrangement 180 is depicted with an optional gimbal mount 135 attached to the second segment 207.

[ 0073 ] Referring now to Figure 3A, there is shown a schematic depiction of a fishing rod 150 in use with the fishing rod handle 100 of Figure 2A attached thereto, the rod and handle being used in a hand held manner by a user (It. an angler) 210. In use, the second handle segment 107 is adapted to be held against the angler's body by the angler's arm 211. In this position, the fishing rod handle 100 enables the angler to hold the fishing rod 150 in a relaxed operational handling position when in use. The second rod segment 107 is able to be securely held under the angler's arm pit (Le. between the chest wall and arm of the angler), and also lowers the main axis of the fishing rod 150 (and the axis, 103 of Figure 2A, of the first handle segment 101 of Figure 2A) to substantially near that of the angler's fore-arm. In this position, the angler's arm is in a comfortable relaxed position, and the rod 150 and handle 100 is securely held. It will be appreciated, that the presently disclosed fishing rod handle 100 enables the fishing rod to be held one-handed, thereby freeing the angler's other hand to maintain operational control of the fishing reel 110 at all times. The presently disclosed rod handles position the fishing rod and, more importantly, the fishing reel in a position whereby the angler can easily operate the reel whilst maintaining full control of the rod, and do not place the rod in a position commonly seen when an angler attempts to brace a prior art fishing rod with a straight handle under their arm to be able to simultaneously operate the reel, wherein the angler's arms are necessarily cramped close to the body to be able to reach the rod handle grip and the fishing reel. For example, the rod handle position provides greater leverage thus allowing the angler to apply greater force on a fish without hyperextension of the back. The handle's construction provides greater casting accuracy as it forces a direct linear casting operative motion. The first segment of the rod handle may be optionally provided with an anti slip surface that provides comfort and support against axial rotation whilst in use. The rod handle also may be optionally provided with an anti slip surface to allow casting to be conducted in a secure safe manner.

[ 0074 ] The fishing rod handle described herein additionally enables the angler to prevent or substantially suppress any axial rotational forces by holding the handle against the body by the users arm and supported by the armpit socket. The handle design herein is constructed to allow the rod handle angled segment to be at a length and angle that prevents axial rotation of the fishing rod when in use fighting a fish. In a particular arrangement, the second handle segment may extend generally upward at an angle to the axis of the fishing rod and the first segment. In this manner, the angler 210 is able to apply an axial rotational force to the rod handle 100, particularly at the location 220 where the first segment 101 engages with the second segment 107. The ability to apply such rotation force to the rod enables the angler 210 to prevent or substantially suppress axial rotation of the fishing rod 150 which may occur in use whilst reeling in and/or fighting a fish which has been caught by the line (not shown).

[ 007S ] In particular arrangements, the second rod handle segment 107 may be provided with a butt cap (not shown) adapted to attach to the proximal end 107b of Figure 2A, to provide additional comfort to the angler when the rod is held under their armpit when in use. For example, the butt cap may be a ball cap or similar design. In particular arrangements the butt cap may be at least partially resilient so as not to present a hard surface to the sensitive area under the angler's arm An example of a suitable resilient material is a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate e.g. ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA), or similar polymer or copolymer materials, or cork.

[ 0076 ] Figures 3B and 3C depict a schematic depiction of a fishing rod in use with arrangements of a fishing rod handle as described herein attached thereto, the rod and handle being used in a hand held manner by a user (i.e. an angler) 210. Figure 3D depicts the fishing rod and handle as shown in Figure 3C shown in use with an optional gimbal mount 220 attached to a gimbal belt 221, showing the angler in a relaxed position. [ 0077 ] The second handle segment 107 of the rod handle 100 is preferably constructed with a length (refer back to Figure 2A) Lz < Lj, with Lj being the length 121 of the portion of the first handle segment 101 , where Z_/ is defined as the length between the front end 105a of the reel seat 105 and extending to the second end 101b of the first handle segment 101 (i.e. to the point 101b-107a where the first handle segment 101 meets the second handle segment 107). Typically, the length 123, L is approximately half, or slightly tonger than the length 121, Z/, of the first segment to enable the angler to prevent or substantially suppress any axial rotational forces when in use by allowing the angle 101b-107a, where the first and second segment meet, to be placed against the body by the users arm to prevent or substantially suppress any axial rotational forces. The length 121, Li of the portion of the first segment is designed with reference to the angle a 111 to allow the reel seat and fishing reel to be close to the angler's body when in use held under the arm to maintain the reel in a comfortable positioa In particular arrangements the total axial length 125, L₃, of the first and second handle segments may be about 400 to about 600 mm long, typically about 450 to about 500 mm long.

[ 0078 ] The arrangements of the fishing rod handles disclosed herein are particularly designed for hand held operation by the angler, however, it is quite common for the angler to desire to place the rod in a rod holder or mount. For example, the angler may want a brief rest from holding the rod whilst leaving the line played out (i.e. rather than reeling the line in prior to having a rest). Alternatively, the angler may find that a fish caught on the line is proving to be difficult to reel in with the rod hand held, and may desire the assistance which can be provided by a rod holder such as a fishing belt mount, which often also utilise a gimbal mounting system Therefore, it is preferable that the fishing rod can be quickly transferred from being hand-held to being mounted in the angler's preferred assistance system, gimbal mount or rod holder. Thus, in preferred arrangements of the rod handle disclosed herein, the second segment of the bent rod handle is adapted to be mounted in either a rod holder or a fishing belt rod assistance mount (or the like) of the type commonly used by angler's for conventional fishing rods. To achieve this, the second segment is preferably maintained with a cross sectional size and shape similar to that of conventional fishing rod handles.

[ 0079 ] In many cases, the length of the second segment itself will be insufficient to be securely mounted in a conventional rod holder since the optimal second portion length for comfortable and efficient use of the second handle segment under the arm will be too short to reach the bottom of the rod holder where a securing mechanism (e.g. a gimbal bar) is located. Therefore, the rod handle as disclosed herein may be provided with an extension piece (not shown) adapted to be securely or releasably attached to the end of the second portion such that the combined length, L2, of the second segment and the extension piece is sufficient to provide a secure mounted position in conventional fishing rod holders. The extension piece may comprise one or more notches adapted to engage with a gimbal mount provided in the conventional rod holder.

[ 0080 ] In particular arrangements of the fishing rod handle the angled section of the second segment starts closer to the butt end section of the rod handle to allow the angled section to find its way to the arm/chest area which in turn stops rotation of the handle when force is applied. If the bend is not against the arm chest the rod will easily rotate out of control of the angler. Also, the length of the second handle segment after the bend is relevant to the size of the angler which in turn determines the required angle required in order to keep the bent section against chest/arm. This will of course vary depending upon size of the individual and the length of the second rod handle may be adjusted by the angler to suit or manufactured in various sizes.

[ 0081 ] Additionally, the proximal end 107b of the second segment may comprise one or more features, for example one or two groves in the end of the rod handle (not shown), adapted to engage with a conventional gimbal mount system.

[ 0082 ] In the particular arrangement as depicted in Figures 2A, 2B and 3A, the fishing reel attachment portion 105 is adapted to attach the fishing reel 110 to the first handle segment 101 such that the reel 110 extends in a generally downward direction in the reel plane, and the second handle segment 107 extends generally pwards in the reel plane. In this arrangement, the handle may be particularly suited to use with spinning reel type (Le. fishing reels utilizing a fixed spool and normally mounted below the rod). In alternative arrangements, the fishing reel attachment portion 105 may be adapted to attach a reel 110a shown in Figure 3B and 3C to the first handle segment 101 of Figures 2A and 2B such that the reel 110a extends in a generally upward direction in the reel plane, and the second handle segment 107 also extends generally upwards in the reel plane. This alternative arrangement is depicted in Figures 3B and 3C shown in use. In this arrangement, the handle may again be particularly suited to use with small overhead bait- caster reels (normally mounted above the rod as shown in Figures 3B to 3D) rather than large big game reels (eg. Perm Senator and the like which are not designed for casting, but instead used for trolling or fishing set baits and lures on the open ocean).

[ 0083 ] The fishing reel attachment portion generally will comprise a reel seat as would be appreciated by the skilled addressee. The reel seat may be integral with the first handle segment, being axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the fishing rod and first handle segment. Alternatively, the reel seat may be provided as a stand-alone component for the angler to construct a custom fishing rod handle. In this case, the angler would choose a desired reel seat and engage it with a fore-grip component, also available separately, such that when so engaged, the reel seat and fore-grip combination forms at least a portion of the first handle segment 101 as depicted in Figure 2 A. As would be appreciated, the fore-grip component is a generally rectilinear handle grip segment, however, the angler may choose an alternative fore-grip section as available at the time to suit their own particular custom needs. The fore-grip and/or aft-grip components may be formed from a suitable resilient material such as a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate e.g. ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA), or similar polymer or copolymer materials, or cork.

[ 0084 ] Referring to Figure 4A, there is shown a plan stylised depiction 400 of the fishing rod handle 100 of Figure 2A), shown with respect to left-handed co-ordinate system 401, wherein the reel plane in this configuration is defined to coincide with the y-z plane of the co-ordinate system. In this particular arrangement, the axis 109 of the second handle portion 107 extends upward in the reel plane (ie. the y-z plane) such that second handle segment axis 109 makes an external angle a 111 with the axis 103 of the first handle segment 101. In this manner, the angler may optimally exert rotational force to the rod handle 100 to efficiently counteract rotational forces which are transferred to the rod 150 and subsequently to handle 100 when the angler is attempting to reel in or fight a fish which has been caught by the fishing line of an attached reel (not shown) when in use. In preferred arrangements, the angle a may be in the range of between about 30 and about 60 degrees, and may be about 45 degrees. In other arrangements, the angle a may be in the range of between about 20 to about 85 degrees in accordance with requirement^'s. In particular arrangements the angle a may be designed to substantially coincide with the angle that is formed between the forearm and upper arm of an angler when holding the handle. In preferred arrangements, it would be appreciated that variations of the angle a are permitted provided that the angler can comfortably hold the handle under their arm, with their arm in a relaxed position for extended use and be able to provide sufficient leverage without hyper extending the back whilst being able to exert sufficient rotational forces on the rod handle to counteract rotation of the rod during operating conditions.

[ 0085 ] Figure 4B shows a plan stylised depiction 450 of the fishing rod handle 180 of Figure 2B, shown with respect to a left-handed co-ordinate system 401, shown such that the fishing rod 150 and first segment 451 of the fishing rod handle 450 extend along the z-direction, and coincides with first handle segment axis 453. The second portion 457 extends generally upward in the -axis. In this depiction the reel plane is defined by the reel attachment means 455 and the second handle segment 457, and coincides with the y-z coordinate plane. External angle a 461 is defined to be in the reel-plane between the first handle segment axis 453 and the second handle segment axis 459.

[ 0086 ] Alternatively, in other arrangements as depicted in Figure 5A in perspective view and in Figure SB in end-on plan view, the second handle segment 107 may extend at an angle a from the axis of the first handle segment, and also out of the reel plane 410 wherein the second handle portion 107 extends out of the reel plane 410. In this arrangement, the second handle segment axis 109 makes an angle β 460 with the y-z reel plane 410. The angle β 460 may be typically between about 0 and about 60 degrees to the reel plane. In other arrangements, the angle β may be between about 0 to about 80. In this configuration, the distal (butt) end 107a of the second segment 107 is adapted to fit underneath the angler's arm and such that the angle is able to apply a rotational force to the rod handle in the direction indicated by force arrow 470 with their arm. It will be appreciated that in the arrangement depicted in Figures 5A and 5B, the rod handle is configured for left-handed operation as depicted in Figures 3A to 3C, whereby the angler grips the rod handle in their left hand and seats the butt end 107a of the second segment substantially under or near their left arm pit. In this configuration the angler is able to operate the reel (not shown) with their right hand. The rod handle may also be adapted for right-handed operation and operation with a reel-designed to be operated with the angler's left hand, by configuring the second portion to extend out of the reel pane 410 in a mirror-image configuration about the reel plane 410 to that as depicted in Figure 5A.

[ 0087 ] In particular arrangements of the out-of-plane rod handle as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the second handle segment may be adjustable such that the angle β between the second handle axis 109 and the reel plane 410 is reconfigurable for customisable operation by the angler. In these arrangements, the second handle segment 107 may be releasably rotatable about the z-axis of the first handle segment to adjust the angle β to a preferred comfortable position, or even to convert the rod handle form left-handed to right handed operation. When the second handle segment 107 is in a preferred position, it may be secured or locked in that position, so as to prevent further rotation of about the z-axis whilst the rod is in use. [ 0088 ] There are numerous methods for construction of a fishing rod handle as disclosed herein, a selection of which will be discussed below, however it will be appreciated that equivalent methods may exist to provide a bent fishing rod handle as disclosed herein for use by a user/angler to enable the exertion of a rotational force on the rod to counteract any such rotational forces whilst in use. It will be appreciated that such equivalents are encompassed by the scope and spirit of the disclosure herein.

[ 0089 ] In a particular arrangement 600 shown in Figure 6 for construction of a bent fishing rod handle as depicted herein, the fishing rod handle may comprise a bent handle portion 601. The bent handle portion 601 comprises a fore-section 603 having a fore-section axis 604, and an aft-section 605 having an aft section axis 606 extending generally rearward from the fore-section at an angle a 611 to the fore-section axis 604. The bent handle portion 601 may in particular arrangements comprise attachment means 607a and 607b, in the present Figure 6 depicted as interference fit engagement means adapted to insert into complementary hollow portions of existing rod handle segments 613 and 615 (for example grip segments, reel seat segments and the like), thereby to form a rod handle as shown in Figures 2 to 5. The fore-section 603 may be adapted to securely engage with either the first handle segment or the reel attachment means such that when engaged, the fore-section 603 is axially aligned with the axis of the first segment, e.g. rod handle section 613. The first handle segment of the rod handles as described above may comprise a portion of the bent handle portion, i.e. fore-section 603. Similarly, the second handle segment of the rod handles as described above may comprise a portion of the bent handle portion, ie. aft-section 605.

[ 0090 ] In alternative methods of attaching the bent handle portion to form the first handle segment, the attachment means 607b may comprise a reconfigurable locking mechanism, such as for example a pin-aperture securing means, or a button release means or alternative equivalents, such that the bent but portion 601, and therefore the second handle segment, may be rotated out of the reel plane (not shown) to a desired configuration. For example, the reconfigurable locking mechanism of attachment means 607b may comprise a pin locking systems wherein the second segment comprises a channel diametrically through the engaging end thereof, and the first handle segment comprises, a plurality of diametrically opposed, circumferential apertures therein, whereby the engaging end of the second segment is adapted to be inserted into a proximal end of the first segment such that the channel may be selectively aligned with a selected pair of diametrically opposed, circumferential apertures in the first segment, such that a securing pin may be passed through me pair of diametrically opposed, circumferential apertures and the channel thereby to securely engage the second segment with the first segment at a selected locked position. The second segment may thus be selectively locked in a locked position whereby the second segment selectively extends from the first segment either upward or downward in the reel plane, or alternatively selectively extends from the first segment out of the reel plane and an angle b to the reel plane.

[ 0091 ] In an alternative arrangement, the reconfigurable locking mechanism of attachment means 607b may comprise a release mechanism comprising secured and released states whereby, when the release mechanism is in the released state, the second segment may by selectively oriented with respect to the reel plane (whether selectively extending from the first segment either upward or downward in the reel plane, or alternatively selectively extending from the first segment out of the reel plane and an angle b to the reel plane) and wherein, when the release mechanism is in the secured state, the second segment is securely engaged with the first segment in a selected orientation thereto. The release mechanism may comprise a button release system that may comprise of a spring system to retract the locking pin and slot into a pre defined locking points that would be appreciated by the skilled addressee.

[ 0092 ] Figures 7 A, 7B, and 7C show an alternative method for constructing a fishing rod handle as described herein. A bent insertion component 701 is provided (Figure 7A) which is adapted for interference fit engagement to insert into complementary hollow portions of existing rod handle segments 703 and 705 (Figure 7B) (for example grip segments, reel seat segments and the like), thereby to form a rod handle as shown in Figures 2 to 5. A corner section 707 as shown in Figure 7C may also be provided to enclose the insertion component 701 at the location of the bend when existing rod handle segments 703 and 705 are fitted.

[ 0093 ] Figures 8A and 8B show a further alternative method for constructing a fishing rod handle as described herein, wherein a bent handle segment 801 is provided comprising integrally formed interference attachment points 803 and 805 adapted to insert into complementary hollow portions of existing rod handle segments 807 and 809 (Figure 8B) (for example grip segments, reel seat segments and the like), thereby to form a rod handle as shown in Figures 2 to 5.

[ 0094 ] Alternatively, attachment points 803 and 805 may comprise a threaded component (not shown), adapted to engage with a complementary threaded component of additional parts used for construction of a rod handle to the angler's preferred configuration.

[ 0095 ] Alternatively still, a rod handle component part 901 may be provided to fixedly engage with a rod handle segment, comprising a threaded portion 903 as shown in Figure 9A. Rod handle component part 901 may be engaged with an existing rod handle segment 905 (for example grip segments, reel seat segments and the like), for instance with an interference fit as would be appreciated by the skilled addressee. A threaded cap portion 907 with a threaded section 908 adapted to engage with threaded portion 903 may also be provided. In this arrangement, a further rod handle segment 909 (Figure 9B) (for example an aft-grip section) comprising complementary threaded section 910 may be selectably attached to rod handle segment 905 by screwing on to rod handle component part 901 thereby to construct a linear, axially aligned rod' handle of the type common in the prior art. Alternatively, a bent handle conversion segment 911 (Figure 9C) may be provided comprising complementary threaded section 912 may be selectably attached to rod handle component part 901. Bent handle conversion segment 911 further comprises a aft-section attachment 913 adapted to engage a further rod handle segment (not shown), for example either as an interference fit means similar to 803 of Figure 8A, or alternatively, aft-section attachment may comprise a threaded section (not shown) for engagement with a complementary threaded section of the further rod handle segment (e.g. segment 909). In alternate arrangements the gimbal may comprise a releasable locking mechanism, such as for example a pin-aperture securing means, or a button release means or alternative equivalents (not shown).

[ 0096 ] In other arrangements, the second handle segment may reconfigurable between at least two locked positions. In the first locked position, the second handle segment may extend generally upward in the reel plane. In the second locked position, the second handle segment may extend generally downward in the reel plane. The second handle segment may be adapted to rotate out of the reel plane between the first and the second locked positions. In other arrangements, the second handle segment may be adapted to be reconfigurably locked in one or more positions, intermediate the first and second locked positions.

[ 0097 ] The second handle segment may comprise a reconfigurable locking mechanism adapted to be securely engaged with either the first handle segment or reel attachment means. In particular arrangements, the fishing reel attachment portion may be adapted for attachment of a fishing reel in either of two operative positions. In the first operative position, the fishing reel (when attached) may extend generally downward in the reel plane. In the second operative position, the fishing reel (when attached) may extend generally upward in the reel plane.

[ 0098 ] In an alternate arrangement, as depicted in Figure 10, the second segment of the rod handle as disclosed herein may be provided as a butt attachment 1000 having a generally elongate, or 'flattened' cross section. The flattened butt section comprises an attachment means 1003 at the distal end 1002 thereof) the attachment means 1003 adapted to attach to a rod handle 1005. The attachment means may be either: an interference mount, similar to that as seen in Figures 8A and 8B; a screw fitting similar to that seen in Figure 9A; or other attachment means Figure 10 is as would be appreciated by the skilled addressee.

[ 0099 ] The flattened butt section 1000 comprises a bend 1007 therein such that the proximal end 1001 of the butt forms the second handle portion as described above having an axis 1011. Axis 1011 forms an external angle a from the axis 1013 of the distal end 1002 comprising the attachment means 1003. When attached to a rod handle 1005, the proximal end axis 1011 forms an external angle a from the axis distal end axis 1013 which is coaxial with the axis 1014 of the rod handle (forming the first handle segment of the rod handle as described above). In use, the flattened butt segment 1000 is attached to a rod handle to form a bent rod handle as described herein, wherein the flattened butt section forms the second rod handle segment, which is preferably attached such that the second handle segment which extends upward in the reel plane at with an external angle a from the axis of the first handle segment (rod handle 1005).

[ 0100 ] The flattened butt attachment Figure 10 shown as 1000 may be adapted for use with conventionally available fishing rods, rod handles, and fishing rod handle custom components to enable the angler to convert an existing fishing rod handle to a bent rod handle as disclosed herein. As would be appreciated, the butt attachment may be releasably secured to the fishing rod handle as required by the angler.

[ 0101 ] In use, the flattened butt section 1001 is securely or releasably attached to the fishing rod handle such that angle a is substantially in the reel plane (refer to Figures 4A and 4B) and may be adapted to be held against the angler's body by an arm of the user and supported by the armpit socket (i.e. as depicted in Figures 3A to 3C) to provide additional control / suppression of axial rotation of the rod when in use. The flattened butt section 1001 provides the angler with increases control when trying to prevent axial rotation of the fishing rod, significantly more so than conventional "bai '-type butt caps which tend to rotate along with the rod. The flattened butt section 1001 may alternatively be adapted for an ergonomic fit under the arm for further comfort and stability when in use.

[ 0102 ] In further arrangements, the flattened butt section 1001 may further comprise at least one or two notches 1015a and/or 1015b in an end thereof adapted for engagement of the flattened butt section 1001 with a conventional fishing rod gimbal mount, for example in a fishing gimbal belt or rod holder.

[ 0103 ] In this configuration it would be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the bent rod handle with the flattened butt segment may not be suited for placement in a conventional rod holder. However, alternate modified rod holders (not shown) having a generally elongate inner cross section may be readily envisaged to be able to accept the flattened butt segment for use by the angler, and such modified rod holders are encompassed by the present invention as a complementary 'key in lock' component adapted for use with a rod handle as disclosed above.

[ 0104 ] In further arrangements, the second handle segment 107 of the fishing rod handle arrangements disclosed herein may comprise a rotatable grip segment 1050 as depicted in Figure 11. The rotatable grip segment 1050 may be adapted to rotate about the longitudinal axis 109 of the second handle segment 107, to allow ergonomic rotation of the fishing rod and an angler's hand (not shown) during a casting action of the fishing rod. In further arrangements the entire second segment handle butt end 107 may be adapted to rotate (not shown). The butt end may have attached a gimbal which in some arrangement may rotate with the butt end or remain in a fixed position. In either arrangement the rotatable grip segment 1050 or rotating butt end (not shown) may be selectably adapted to be locked to prevent rotation of the rotatable grip segment once a casting action is completed. The rotatable grip segment may be formed from a suitable resilient material such as a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate e.g. ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA), or similar polymer or copolymer materials, or cork.

[ 0105 ] In further arrangements, the second handle segment of the fishing rod handle arrangements disclosed herein may comprise a non-slip surface for enhanced friction with a user's body when in use and whilst casting to secure the rod from slipping Whilst in use fighting a fish, the second handle segment (107of Figure 2A or 207 of Figure 2B) is adapted to be held against the chest wall and inner arm of the angler. When the second segment is held in this position, the angler is able to grip the fore-grip lOld and brace the rod against the chest wall and inner arm to provide stability to the rod , and also to provide upward pressure on the fishing rod using the second segment as a fulcrum. Therefore an anti-slip surface on the rod handle is particularly advantageous to provide increased control over the fishing rod whilst fighting the fish and casting a line.

[ 0106 ] The first handle segment may also comprise a non-slip surface to provide a secure grip on the fishing rod handle by a user's hand. The non-slip surface may be formed from a suitable resilient material in either segments of the handle such as a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate e.g. ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA), or similar polymer or copolymer materials, or cork. The rotatable grip segment or rotatable butt end may be provided as a selectable rod handle component, and may be used for construction of a fishing rod handle with a bent handles as described herein, and also for existing straight fishing rod handles, to allow ergonomic rotation of the fishing rod in the angler's hand during a casting action of the fishing rod, and may be beneficial for fishing rods generally.

[ 0107 ] In still further arrangements, a releasably attachable elongate butt cap 1201 as shown in Figures 12A to 12F may be provided for use with the fishing rod handle arrangements disclosed herein, or alternatively lor use with existing fishing rods in a permanent or releasable arrangement. In particular arrangements, as shown in Figure 12B, the elongate butt cap 1201 is either generally rectangular or elliptical in cross-section, and comprises a major axis 1203 and a minor axis 1205, the major axis being greater than the minor axis. The butt cap 1201 is adapted for attachment to an end of the second handle segment 107 as would be appreciated by the skilled addressee in relation to attachment of butt caps for existing fishing rods. In use, the elongate butt cap 1201 is securely or releasably attached to the fishing rod handle such that the major axis is substantially in the reel plane and may be adapted to be held against the angler's body by an arm of the user and supported by the armpit socket (i.e. as depicted in Figures 3A to 3C) to provide additional control and reduction / suppression of axial rotation of the rod when in use. The elongate, or "flattened" butt cap 1201 provides the angler with increased control and suppresses axial rotation of the fishing rod, significantly more so than conventional "ball"-type butt caps which tend to rotate along with the rod. The elongate butt 1201 cap may alternatively be adapted for an ergonomic fit under the arm of the use when in use.

[ 0108 ] In particular arrangements, for example as shown in perspective view in Figure 12B, the major cross-sectional axis 1203 may be substantially equal to the diameter of the fishing rod handle second segment 107, conventionally having a generally circular cross section. Accordingly_f the fishing rod handle may still be easily inserted into a conventional fishing rod holder without requiring removal of the flattened butt cap 1201.

[ 0109 ] In further arrangements, the flattened butt cap 1201 may further comprise at least one notch 1207 in an end thereof adapted for engagement of flattened butt cap 1201 with a conventional fishing rod gimbal mount. In this arrangement, the angler is able to quickly and easily move from a hand-held to a mounted situation, and vice verse, without requiring reconfiguration of the rod, and therefore provides the significant advantage of repositioning the rod depending on the required amount of control whilst fighting a fish caught on the line. In still further arrangements, as shown in top down view in Figure 12C, the flattened butt cap 1201 may be tapered, and may have one or both sides 1209a or 1209b tapering inward towards the central handle axis 109.

[ 0110 ] Figures 12D to 12F respectively depict alternate arrangements 1220, 1230, and 1240 of a flattened butt cap similar to that of Figures 12A to 12C with various geometries. For example, butt cap 1220 has curved or otherwise profiled sides 1221 and 1222 to more closely mold with the angler's body and/or arm when in use held under the angler's arm. Similarly, butt cap 1230 of Figure 12E has a flat surface 1231 and a curved surface 1232 and is generally hemispherical in cross section. Butt cap 1240 of Figure 12F is similar to cap 1201 although is wider in the minor axis, however, the cap is generally formed so as not to extend outside beyond the line of the rod handle second segment 107, such that it generally has a circular cross section with two opposing sides 1241 and 1242 cut away. Each of the elongate butt caps may additionally comprise one or more gimbal notches (for example notches 1207 and 1208) for use with a gimbal mount as would be appreciated by the skilled addressee. In some arrangements, the butt cap of any one of Figures 12A to 12F may be formed (at least partially) from a resilient material. For example the outer surface may be formed from the resilient material or the butt cap may be provided with a covering or coating formed from a resilient material The resilient butt cap may be compressed under pressure from the anger's arm when in use held against the body under the armpit, whilst still being comfortable for the angler to hold for extended periods of time. The resilient material may also provide additional grip to the butt cap for the angler to maintain greater control of the rod when in use. An example of a suitable resilient material is a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate e.g. ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA), or similar polymer or copolymer materials, or cork.

[ 0111 ] In further arrangements of any one or combination of the aspects or arrangements disclosed above, the second handle segment (107 of Figure 2A or 207 of Figure 2B) may have a "flattened" cross sectional profile similar to that of the elongate or flattened butt cap of Figures 12A to 12 F, thus providing the angler with additional control of the rod for reduction / suppression of axial rotation of the rod while securely held under the angler's arm pit (i.e. between the chest wall and arm of the angler) when in use. For example, in the arrangement 180 of Figure 2B, second segment 207 may be a flattened or concaved in the reel plane (defined by the fishing reel -when attached - as per Figure 4B) in a similar manner to the flattened butt caps described above.

[ 0112 ] In further arrangements, as shown in plan schematic view in Figure 13A, a reel seat 1301 for a fishing rod 1302 and fishing rod handle 1303 may be provided for use with the fishing rod handles disclosed herein, e.g. with a bent second segment 1305. Alternatively, the reel seat 1301 may also be used for conventional fishing rods having a straight handle 1307. The reel seat 1301 presently disclosed is adapted to selectively attach a fishing reel 1310a (e.g. spinning reel) or 1310b (e.g. overhead bait caster reel) (shown in dotted outline) to the fishing rod handle 1303 in either of first or second operative reel positions 1311 and 1313 respectively. The first and second operative positions 1311 and 1313 may be oppositely arranged on the fishing rod handle 1303. For example, when mounted in the first operative position 1311, the fishing reel 1310a may be oriented generally downward with respect to the rod axis 1309, and when mounted in the second operative position 1313, the fishing reel 1310b may be oriented generally upward with respect to the rod axis 1309. The reel seat is adapted to form part of a handle 1303 of the fishing rod, and forms an integral part to a fishing rod handle, or alternatively as a stand-alone component adapted to be used in the construction of a custom fishing rod handle in a similar manner to conventionally available custom reel seats. A distal end 1301a of the reel seat 1301 may be adapted to engage with a fore-handle portion 1303b, and a proximal end 1301b of the reel seat 1301 is adapted to engage an aft-handle portion 1303a.

[ 0113 ] In a particular arrangement as shown in Figure 13B, the reel seat 1301 may comprise a first reel hood 1330, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel (not shown) with the fishing rod handle 1303, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod 1303. The reel seat 1301 may further comprise a second reel hood 1320, adapted to be fixedly attached to the reel seat 1301. In a particular arrangement, the second reel hood 1320 may comprise at least two reel engagement notches 1321 and 1323 (as also depicted in either of Figures 13C or 13D). Each notch 1321 and 1323 is adapted to selectively receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel (e.g. either reel 1310a or 1310b shown in Figure 13A) whereby, when the first reel hood 1330 is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is attached to the reel seat 1301 in the selected operative position. The first reel hood 1330 may comprise a single engagement notch 1331, and wherein the first reel hood 1330 is rotatable about a longitudinal axis 1309 of the reel seat 1301 to selectively engage a fishing reel 1310a or 1310b in either of the first or second operative positions 1311 or 1313. Notches 1321 and 1323 of the second reel hood 1320 may be differently profiled to receive different classes of fishing reels, for example, spinning reel type (i.e. fishing reels utilizing a fixed spool and normally mounted below the rod as shown in Figure 3A) or small overhead bait- caster reels (normally mounted above the rod as shown in Figure 3B to 3D). In an arrangement where the notches 1321 and 1323 of second reel hood 1320 are profiled differently (e.g. different sizes and/or profile to receive different classes of fishing reel), the first hood 1330 would require a second notch to mirror the notches of the second hood 1320. Of course, as would be appreciated by the skilled addressee and/or angler, the reel seat as disclosed herein will also cater for alterative fishing reels of all sizes.

[ 0114 ] In an alternate arrangement (not shown), the reel seat may comprise a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the fishing rod, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod. The reel seat may further comprise a second reel hood comprising a reel engagement notch, the second reel hood adapted to be selectably releasably secured to the fishing rod in either of two notch positions, such that each said notch position enables the fishing reel to be selectively securely engaged with the fishing rod in either of the oppositely arranged operative positions wherein when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position. The reel seat may further comprise a fixed engagement protrusion; and the second reel hood may comprise two engagement notches, each adapted to selectively releasably engage with the fixed engagement protrusion, oppositely opposed about the second reel hood, wherein the second reel hood is adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the reel seat to selectively engage one of the engagement notches with the fixed engagement protrusion thereby to select either of the operative reel positions, wherein, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position.

[ 0115 ] In a further arrangement (not shown), the reel seat may comprise: two oppositely opposed, axially extending reel engagement notches aligned with a central axis of the reel seat, said engagement notches adapted for receiving the fishing reel in either of the operative positions; a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the fishing rod, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod; and a second reel hood comprising a reel engagement notch, the second reel hood adapted to be rotated about the axis of the reel seat, such that said notch is able to receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel in either of the operative positions, wherein, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative positioa

[ 0116 ] In a farther arrangement as shown in Figures 13E to 13G, each respectively alternate arrangements of reel seat 1301 shown in cross-section along line A-A' of Figure 13B, the reel seat may comprise: two oppositely opposed, axially extending reel engagement features, respectively, recessed features 1331a and 1331b of Figure 13E, raised features 1333a and 1333b of Figure 13F, and flattened features 1335a and 1335b of Figure 13G. The engagement features are aligned with central longitudinal axis 1309 of the reel seat. The engagement notches are adapted for receiving the fishing reel in either of the operative positions. In this arrangement, there is provided (not shown) a first reel hood comprising two reel engagement notch substantially aligned with the oppositely opposed reel engagement features, and movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with a selected engagement feature of the reel seat and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the reel seat in the selected operative position; and a second reel hood comprising two reel engagement notch substantially aligned with the oppositely opposed reel engagement features, each notch adapted to receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel when engaged with the selected engagement feature, wherein, when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is securely attached to the reel seat in the selected operative position.

[ 0117 ] In any of the arrangements of the reel seat, the first operative reel position may be adapted to attach the fishing reel in a generally downward direction, and the second operative reel position may be adapted to attach the fishing reel in a generally upward direction.

[ 0118 ] The fishing rod disclosed above may be constructed by the end user, i.e. the angler, from a rod handle kit for attachment to a fishing rod (the rod comprising a distal end and a butt end, with a rod axis extending therebetween). The kit may comprise a first generally rectilinear handle segment. The first handle segment may comprise a first end adapted for attachment to a butt end of the fishing rod, and a second end, with an axis extending therebetween. The first handle segment may be adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod in a generally co-axial arrangement therewith.

[ 0119 ] The kit may further comprise a fishing reel seat for releasably attaching a fishing reel. The reel seat may be for secure attachment to an end of the first handle segment in generally coaxial arrangement therewith. [ 0120 ] The kit may comprise an angled handle segment. The angled handle segment may comprise a first end adapted for coaxial attachment to an end of the reel seat and a second end extending at an angle to the axis of the first end. The angled handle section may be adapted for adjustment of the relative angle of the second end with the axis of the first end. The angled handle section may comprise a releasable locking mechanism whereby, when released, the relative angle of the second end may be adjusted with respect to the axis of the first end, and the second end may subsequently be locked in a desired angled configuration.

[ 0121 ] The kit may further comprise a second generally rectilinear handle segment. The second handle segment may be adapted for attachment to the second end of the angled handle segment, such that the handle segment extends non-coaxially to the first handle segment at an angle thereto.

[ 0122 ] In a particular arrangement, the kit for a fishing rod handle may comprise at least: a first generally rectilinear handle segment having a first end adapted for attachment to a butt end of the fishing rod, and a second end, with an axis extending therebetween, wherein the first handle segment may be adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod in a generally co-axial arrangement therewith; a fishing reel seat for releasably attaching a fishing reel, the reel seat adapted for secure attachment to an end of the first handle segment in generally co-axial arrangement therewith; an angled handle segment comprising a first end adapted for coaxial attachment to an end of the reel seat and a second end extending at an angle to the axis of the first end; a second generally rectilinear handle segment adapted for attachment to the second end of the angled handle segment, such that the second handle segment extends non-coaxially to the first handle segment at an angle thereto.

[ 0123 ] The reel seat may be to selectively attach a fishing reel to the fishing rod in either of first or second operative reel positions, said positions being oppositely arranged on the fishing rod. The reel seat may be incorporated with the first handle segment, being axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the fishing rod and first handle segment.

[ 0124 ] The kit may comprise a reel seat comprising: a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the fishing rod, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod; and a second reel hood, adapted to be fixedly attached to the fishing rod, comprising at least two reel engagement notches, each adapted to selectively receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel, whereby, when the first reel hood is in secured closed position, the fishing reel may be attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position

[ 0125 ] Alternatively, or in combination, the kit may comprise a reel seat comprising: a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the fishing rod, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod; and a second reel hood comprising a reel engagement notch, the second reel hood adapted to be selectably releasably secured to the fishing rod in either of two notch positions, such that each notch position enables the fishing reel to be selectively securely engaged with the fishing rod in either of the oppositely arranged operative positions, and wherein when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel may be attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position.

[ 0126 ] The rod handle kit may further comprise a butt section adapted for secure releasable attachment to the second handle segment. The butt section may be of generally rectangular cross-section comprising a major cross-sectional axis and a minor cross-sectional axis, the major cross-sectional axis being greater than the minor cross-sectional axis, wherein, in use, said butt portion may be adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user to provide additional control and reduction / suppression of axial rotation of the rod when in use. The major cross-sectional axis may be substantially equal to the diameter of the fishing rod handle with generally circular cross section, butt portion may further comprise at least one notch in an end thereof adapted for engagement of the butt portion with a fishing rod gimbal mount.

[ 0127 ] It will be appreciated that the methods/apparatus/devices/systems described/illustrated above at least substantially a fishing rod handle, and components for construction of a fishing rod handle for secure hand-held use by an angler and also to provide the angler with the option to move from a hand-held position to being able to locate the rod in a rod holder, and vice versa, without altering the configuration of the rod handle, thereby enabling multi-situational operation even whilst fighting a fish caught on the line.

[ 0128 ] The fishing rod equipment described herein, and/or shown in the drawings, are presented by way of example only and are not limiting as to the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise specifically stated, individual aspects and components of the fishing equipment may be modified, or may have been substituted therefore known equivalents, or as yet unknown substitutes such as may be developed in the future or such as may be found to be acceptable substitutes in the future. The fishing equipment may also be modified for a variety of applications while remaining within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention, since the range of potential applications is great, and since, it is intended that the present fishing equipment be adaptable to many such variations.

[ 0129 ] The following definitions provided as general definitions and should in no way limit the scope of the present invention to those terms alone, but are put forth for a better understanding of the following description.

[ 0130 ] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. For the purposes of the present , the following terms are defined below.

[ 0131 ] The articles "a" and "an" are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, "an element" refers to one element or more than one element.

[ 0132 ] The term "about" is used to refer to quantities that vary by as much as 30%, preferably by as much as 20%, and more preferably by as much as 10% to a reference quantity.

[ 0133 ] Throughout this , unless the context requires otherwise, the words "comprise", "comprises" and "comprising" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group of steps or elements.

[ 0134 ] Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practice or testing of the present invention, preferred methods and materials are described. It will be appreciated that the methods, apparatus and systems described herein may be implemented in a variety of ways and for a variety of purposes. The description here is by way of example only.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A fishing rod handle adapted for attachment to a fishing rod comprising a distal end and a butt end, with a rod axis extending therebetween, wherein the handle comprises:

a first generally rectilinear handle segment having a first end adapted for attachment to a butt end of the fishing rod, and a second end, with an axis extending therebetween, wherein the first handle segment is adapted for secure releasable attachment to the fishing rod in a generally co-axial arrangement therewith;

a fishing reel attachment portion adapted for releasably attaching a fishing reel to the first segment such that, when attached, the reel extends from the axis of the rod in a reel plane; and

a second generally rectilinear handle segment adapted for attachment to a second end of the first segment, wherein the second segment extends from the first section at an angle to the axis of the fishing rod and the first segment,

wherein, in use, the second handle segment is adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user and thereby to enable the user to apply axial rotational force to the rod handle to suppress axial rotation of the fishing rod when in use fighting a fish.

2. A fishing rod handle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second segment extends generally upward at an angle to the axis of the fishing rod and the first segment.

3. A fishing rod handle as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the fishing reel attachment portion is adapted to attach the reel to the first segment such that the reel extends in a generally downward direction in the reel plane, and the second handle segment extends generally upwards in the reel plane.

4. A fishing rod handle as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the fishing reel attachment portion is adapted to attach the reel to the first segment such that the reel extends in a generally upward direction in the reel plane, and the second handle segment extends generally upwards in the reel plane.

5. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the second handle portion comprises an axis which extends upward in the reel plane at with an external angle a of between 30 and 60 degrees from the axis of the first handle segment.

6. A fishing rod handle as claimed in claim 5 wherein the external angle a is about 45 degrees.

7. A fishing rod handle as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second handle portion comprises an axis oriented with an external angle a of between 30 and 60 degrees from the axis of the first handle segment, and wherein the second handle portion extends out of the reel plane at an angle β of between Q and 60 degrees to the reel plane.

8. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising a bent handle portion, wherein the bent handle portion comprises an fore-section having a fore-section axis, and an aft-section having an aft section axis extending generally rearward from the fore- section at an angle to the fore-section axis, wherein the fore-section is adapted to securely engage with either the first handle segment or the reel attachment means such that when engaged, the fore-section is axially aligned with the axis of the first segment.

9. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the second handle segment is reconfigurable between at least two locked positions, wherein in the first position the second handle segment extends generally upward in the reel plane, and in the second position the second handle segment extends generally downward in the reel plane.

10. A fishing rod as claimed in claim 9 wherein the second handle segment rotates out of the reel plane between the first and the second locked positions.

11. A fishing rod handle as claimed in claim 10 wherein the second handle segment is adapted to be reconfigurably locked in one or more positions intermediate the first and second locked positions.

12. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein the fishing reel attachment portion is adapted for attachment of a fishing reel in two positions, wherein in the first position the fishing reel when attached extends generally downward in the reel plane, and in the second position the fishing reel when attached extends generally upward in the reel plane.

13. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second handle segment comprises a rotatable grip segment adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the second handle segment, to allow ergonomic rotation of the fishing rod and hand during a casting action.

14. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the second handle segment is adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the second handle segment, to allow ergonomic rotation of the fishing rod and hand during a casting actioa

15. A fishing rod handle as claimed in claim 13 wherein the rotatable grip segment is adapted to be locked to prevent rotation of the rotatable grip segment once the casting action is completed.

16. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second handle segment comprises a non-slip surface for enhanced friction with a user's body to prevent rotation of the fishing rod in use.

17. A fishing rod handle as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle comprises a releasably attachable butt cap comprising a major axis and a minor axis, the major axis being greater than the minor axis, the butt cap being adapted for attachment to an end of the second handle segment and wherein, in use, the flattened butt cap is attached to the fishing rod handle such that the major axis is substantially in the reel plane and is adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user to provide additional control and reduction of axial rotation of the rod when in use.

18. A rod handle kit for construction of a fishing rod handle for attachment to a fishing rod comprising a distal end and a butt end, with a rod axis extending therebetween, the kit comprising:

a fishing reel seat for releasably attaching a fishing reel, the reel seat adapted for secure attachment to an end of the first handle segment in generally co-axial arrangement therewith; an angled handle segment comprising a first end adapted for coaxial attachment to an end of the reel seat and a second end extending at an angle to the axis of the first end;

a second generally rectilinear handle segment adapted for attachment to the second end of the angled handle segment, such that the second handle segment extends non-coaxially to the first handle segment at an angle thereto.

19. A rod handle kit further comprising a butt section adapted for secure releasable attachment to the second handle segment.

20. A rod handle kit as claimed in claim 19 wherein the butt section is of generally rectangular cross-section comprising a major cross-sectional axis and a minor cross-sectional axis, the major cross-sectional axis being greater than the minor cross-sectional axis, wherein, in use, said butt portion is adapted to be held against a user's body by an arm of the user to provide additional control and reduction of axial rotation of the rod when in use.

21. A butt portion as claimed in claim 20 wherein the major cross-sectional axis is substantially equal to the diameter of the fishing rod handle with generally circular cross section.

22. A butt portion as claimed in either claim 20 or claim 21 further comprising at least one notch in an end thereof adapted for engagement of the butt portion with a fishing rod gimbal mount.

23. A rod handle kit as claimed in claim 19 wherein the reel seat is adapted to selectively attach a fishing reel to the fishing rod in either of first or second operative reel positions, said positions being oppositely arranged on the fishing rod.

24. A rod handle kit as claimed in claim 23 wherein the reel seat comprises:

a first reel hood, movable between an open position to enable engagement of the fishing reel with the fishing rod, and a secured closed position adapted to secure the engaged fishing reel to the fishing rod; and

a second reel hood, adapted to be fixedly attached to the fishing rod, comprising at least two reel engagement notches, each adapted to selectively receive an engagement portion of the fishing reel, whereby, when the first reel hood is in the secured cbsed position, the fishing reel is attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position.

25. A rod handle kit as claimed in claim 23 wherein the reel seat comprises:

a second reel hood comprising a reel engagement notch, the second reel hood adapted to be selectably releasably secured to the fishing rod in either of two notch positions, such that each said notch position enables the fishing reel to be selectively securely engaged with the fishing rod in either of the oppositely arranged operative positions

wherein when the first reel hood is in the secured closed position, the fishing reel is attached to the fishing rod in the selected operative position.

s

26. A fishing rod handle substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.

27. A rod handle kit substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and or examples.