How do I build a rod?

[DementedFish]

OK everyone... I have a question for you all. Im sure CaptLurch will be able to answer this for me.

I want to build my own rod, but im not sure how to do it. I know this may be hard to explain on the computer to me, but any help would be greatly appreciated! What supplies do I need, and where can i get them and generally how much will they cost?

Now that I have the supplies, how do I make a rod? Do you have step by step instructions for this?? Thanks alot!

[CaptLurch]

The first things you will need are
Blank- (a saltwater rod is probably the easiest because the handle can be very simple) Guides
Thread- (cork tape or seign cord for the handle)
Rod wrapping thread.
Tip glue


To make a very simple rod wrapper take a good size cardboard box (with no lid) cut two V's in the top of the sides to hold the rod. You can use a book to run your thread threw to keep tension on it.

There are lots of books and videos. I will explain it better when I get back from work I do not have much time at the moment.

Here is a site with some of the rods people have wrapped. Check out the equipment section for some ideas of home made rod wrappers.
http://www.fishingphotos.net

[batman]

Hey DF,

Do your self a favor and get a video or book. It helps out a lot and does a better job of expalining how to build a rod that I will ever do. After you read the book or watch the video ask any questions you have and Im sure some one will answer them. IF you have any crummy rods that are broken or that you don't want, practice re wrapping those.

Too build a basic salt water jig stick you need:
Blank
Guides
Rod wrapping thread
Cork tape
Shrink tube
But cap
Tip glue
Rod finish
Rod dryer
Rod wrapper
I started out using the rod wrapper that captlurch was talking about. To make it better, put the rod wrapping thread in a cup or something to keep it from roling around and twisting.
Hope this helps,
Batman

[DementedFish]

Hey thanks batman! Yea, once i get some cash this summer (i hope to get a summer job) I will definetely try to make my own rod!

[Sharkbait]

You'll like doing it. It's quiet fun. Like mentioned before get a book, it will help a lot, believe me. I'm half way into a rod right now. Just waiting for a couple of things I need to come in the mail. I order all my stuff.
Anthony

[cst]

what are the benefits of making your own rods? and what is the price all the materials and equipment cost?

[GlobalFisher]

I think it might end u p being cheaper and you can customize the rod to your preferences.

[CaptLurch]

You can save money. A custom wrapped cal star fiberglass rod would cost about 150-180 and you can wrap your own for about 60-80. If you buy factory rods you will not save a lot but you also get the satisfaction of using something you built your self. And the color combinations and designs are only limited to you imagination. Check out the link on my other post and you can get an idea of what can be done.

If you buy a machine it will run you about $200-$400 depending on the quality. So of course if you are only going to build one or two rods it probably is not worth it.

[GlobalFisher]

Quote by Captlurch:"but you also get the satisfaction of using something you built your self"

That is the main thing, like tying flies. You get a better feeling catching something on something you made!

[batman]

You don't realy save any money. I usualy buy the best components I can find and that aren't extremly high priced. If you built a rod identical to a seeker or calstar you would save money but why would you want to do that?
Batman

[DementedFish]

Yea but you sell your rods batman lol.

[umoa]

hmm i have had all the supplies for over two years..... the blank is still there in the dark corner....

[DementedFish]

What is a shrink tube, and what is it used for? Also, what is tip glue, and what is it used for? Also, is it necessary to buy a rod dryer, and how much will all of this cost me?

[FishSlayer]

You know they sell these ready made now days? whats next, you going to build a reel?

[DementedFish]

Yes actually.