For many carp anglers, Trevs of Wilmslow was one of the most respected tackle shops in the UK. Based in Cheshire, it earned a superb reputation throughout the 1980s and 1990s, particularly for its custom-built carbon carp rods.
Long before custom rod builders became commonplace, Trevs was producing bespoke rods built on some of the finest blanks available at the time. Anglers could commission rods using premium blanks from manufacturers such as Daiwa, including the legendary Amorphous Whisker and Infinity X ranges, as well as blanks from Harrison. These rods developed an excellent reputation for their build quality, performance and craftsmanship, and many are still fished with today.
As the tackle trade evolved, the business transitioned from Trevs of Wilmslow to Tacklesaver, operating from 13–17 The Paddock, Handforth, Wilmslow (SK9 3HG). Tacklesaver continued as a major independent tackle retailer, stocking a huge range of coarse, carp, sea and game fishing equipment while serving anglers across the North West and beyond.
The next major change came in late 2017, when Tacklesaver was acquired by Angling Direct as part of the company’s expansion across the UK. Following the acquisition, the store was extensively refurbished and reopened as Angling Direct Wilmslow, bringing one of the UK’s largest tackle retailers to a site already steeped in angling history.
Although the Trevs of Wilmslow name has disappeared, its legacy lives on through the custom rods that still appear on the bank and in the memories of anglers who visited one of the country’s best-known independent tackle shops.
Did you own a Trevs-built rod?
Many anglers still rate the bespoke rods built by Trevs among the finest of their era.
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Did you own a Trevs custom rod?
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Which blank was it built on?
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Do you still fish with it today?
Share your memories and photos below.