THE Next Level is a documentary style fishing DVD produced by tackle company Daiwa. Each episode profiles a Daiwa Pro staffer and explores the angler’s personality, techniques and favourite locations.
The Next Level refers to the skill of these well-known anglers. It also rings true of the DVD’s production quality. No expense has been spared in producing what’s arguably the highest quality local fishing production ever made.
While high production values are one thing, a good fishing doco needs a good story, and to my relief, The Next Level is much more than just fish porn. There’s an entertaining story and plenty of techniques to take away and apply on the water.
To kick things off, episode one profiles pro staffer, Josh Carpenter, and the stunning Snowy Mountains region. Carpenter shows viewers one of his favourite pastimes – trout fishing mountain streams. This episode is beautifully shot and does well to capture this unique style of fishing. Carpenter tells viewers what makes stalking Snowy trout so special. While the fish aren’t huge, it’s not hard to see the appeal of this style of fishing. He also reveals a load of techniques and tackle tips for someone looking to try it for themselves.
Episode two is closer to home and in direct contrast to the wild Snowy Mountains streams it has pro angler Greg Seeto talking about his homewaters around Sydney Harbour. Seeto is an accomplished bream comp fisho, photographer and blogger. Again, the production is fantastic and the theme of fishing a big city is nicely portrayed.
Seeto fishes from his speedy bream comp boat around the wharves and moorings shadowed by Australia’s biggest city. Bream fishing is a popular sport in the harbour and Seeto explains what draws him to this fast paced game. While not everyone takes their bream fishing so seriously, there are some great tips on lure rigging and tackle choice. While Seeto has a highly focused approach to bream fishing, he fishes for all the right reasons and enjoys the solitude and challenges that come with fishing.
The Next Level is produced and narrated by Mark Berg and features some stunning photography from Daiwa’s Brad Sissins.
Each DVD contains two episodes and Daiwa is planning on releasing three DVDs per year. For a price of $9.95, it’s a worthwhile purchase to watch on a rainy day.
More details at www.daiwathenextlevel.com.au.
