Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Is It Time For A Custom Fishing Rod? Part 8 Of A Series

In the previous posts we have discussed some of the options available in a custom fishing rod. In this post we will start expanding the final aspects to be considered.

Ask your builder for pictures of his work or, better yet, go to his shop and touch and feel his samples. Be sure your goals and his experience match your needs. A professional builder who has been building for years has a great deal more experience and knowledge than one who is just getting started or is a hobbyist selling a few rods on the side.

(c) Copyright: LakeLady Rods 2009

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Is It Time For A Custom Fishing Rod. Part 7 of a series

In the previous posts we've talked about some of the basic questions that need to be asked. In this post we will discuss some of the important details like how long will it take to get my rod?

How long will it take to get my rod? This is a good question, and one that needs to be answered so there are no misunderstandings. Six to eight weeks for completion is normal in slow periods. For some really exotic plan of action to build the rod of your dreams, up to three months may be required. Special order of components or engraving of seats and butt caps can take considerable additional time. If the choice is bamboo, plan on a year or more before you get the rod in your hands! Some bamboo makers will produce only 8-10 rods a year, due to the time involved in the task. If time is important, you must communicate that to your builder to eliminate any misunderstanding and be prepared to make some compromises in your specifications. Quality should never be sacrificed.

(c) copyright: LakeLady Custom Fishing Rods

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Is It Time For A Custom Rod? Part 6 of a series

The discussion of rod blanks takes on a new prospective with this blog. We'll come back later and have a in-depth discussion on rod blanks. It is a science all to itself. So many to chose from, where do we start...

Rod blanks come in many sizes, actions and power. Be sure to explain to your builder exactly what you expect in this area, as he cannot guess or see inside your head. There are over 1,800 blanks from which to choose. A professional builder will have several blanks for you to try before starting the building process. Even the color of the blank can be a subject for discussion. Painting them to some exact color match with automotive paints can be accomplished with ease and some additional cost.

(c) Copyright: LakeLady Rods

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Is It Time For A Custom Fishing Rod? Part 5 of a series

In the previous posts, we talked about some of the basic questions to be answered, now we are getting more specific about options and other important considerations.

Grips and handles really make the visual appearance of the rod truly different. Will it be a traditional full grip or a split grip to reduce weight, or perhaps eliminate the foregrip all together? Split grips are becoming very popular; however, balancing the rod to the reel becomes more difficult as the tips become “heavy.” Materials abound for grips, from conventional cork to burl cork, wood, foam, graphite tubing, fabric covered foam, and more. Colors can even come into play in grips and handles to match boat colors, for example.

(c) Copyright: LakeLady Custom Rods 2009