ESP

ESP was launched in early 1999 and the initials literally stand for Extra Sensory Perception – or 'sixth sense'. Prior to the brand launch, various names were being kicked around and the ESP name was inspired by an off-the-cuff remark made about Terry Hearn, the brand's longtime consultant. It was suggested that he caught so many big, difficult to catch carp that he must have some sort of sixth sense or extra sensory perception - so the name stuck and ESP was born!Initially, the brand specialised in terminal tackle but has since branched out into top quality made to specification rods, clothing and luggage. Amongst the first range of terminal tackle were two hook patterns, the T-6 and the G-4, which took the carp world by storm. They were the first carp hooks to feature ultra-fine needle points which were so much sharper than anything previously available. These were designed in conjunction with Terry Hearn who recognised that an ultra-sharp hook was the most important component when it came to targeting some of the most highly pressured and rig shy big carp in the country. The legendary Stiff Rigger hook pattern quickly followed, specifically designed to be fished on Terry's hinged stiff rig, which evolved into the chod rig, presentations that are still just as deadly today. In 2001 the Big-T hook pattern was launched, this was the first mainstream carp hook to feature a super slick PTFE coating and set a standard which the rest of the industry followed. The introduction of the Cryogen hook range in 2016 set a new standard in carp hooks. Their unique twin tempering process resulted in hooks with unrivalled strength and point durability, up to 25% stronger than previous ESP hooks, without increasing wire gauge.