just a thought in mind-- is there a possibilty of maybe having an article in the magazine in the future about how to build custom fishing rods?

Hey Crappiemandan,  I'd be glad to share with you some notes on building your own rods.  The first thing you need to consider is what kind of rod are you trying to make.  For instance, a number of years back my Dad and I started fishing for crappie with an ultra light reel but back then the only reel seat you could get slipped up and down--held fly reel fairly well but not spinning reels.  I decided to improve on them by removing handle and inserting a light weight reel seat.  I'd rather fish than build rods so I wrote B & M and asked if they might add it to their line of rods.  They said it was too much trouble and did not think it was much of a market--about two years later it started showing up at tackle shows as their new rod.  I guess I should have certified the letter and I'd be better off financially.  I say all that not to discourage you, I've built all kinds of rods but my eyes are not good enough to do delicate things.  There are some great books on the market that give instructions.  The primary thing you need to give attention to is how much time are you willing to invest?  I'll be glad to offer some advise if you need it and I am sure there are many in NAFC that will be glad to help.  Look for one nearby--I could always do something after I watched someone else.  Uncle Tom

Hey how is it going. I just finished my second rod ,it deffinatly came out better than my first.it is alot of fun must have patients though. strongly suggest looking into the company called Mud Hole,there out of Orlando, Florada great instructions and supplies.

Hi ruandy. I have a couple of mud holes catalogs that I enjoy looking at but have yet to build a rod. Just wondering though you said you just finished your second rod, i am assuming that you went through mud hole. what rods did you build and what did you like about them? were they the kits or did you just build from individual components?
Welcome to the forum!

Brian

Hey how is it going bpetersen, ya i built them w/components from mud hole. my 1st one was a total kit                      (Matrix by American Tackle Co.) a 5ft.6in. 2 pc. and the 2nd was still on the kit idea,but i choose different components to customize it a little bit.this one was a 6ft. 2pc. I am still a rookie, its alot of fun though. now i am going to start repairing some of my old rods,  from back in the day. and thanks for the welcome.