any rod builders on here?

[NateD]

Never built a rod before, but interested in giving it a shot. I know basically all of the components I am wanting to use, just don't know about the different finishing compounds, eye-tieing thread, etc. Am I getting in over my head if I've never done this before. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Here's what I'm looking at now:

Rogue 6' SP602 blank
REC Recoil spinning guides (titanium w/o inserts)
REC Recoil tip (no insert)
Fuji Skeleton reel seat
titanium hook keeper
10 in. cork grip

[Jigging15]

Search the internet for rod building forums. I think there is one on bass boat central. Would be bass rods but the finishing materials would be the same. I thought about trying to build a few but can not get into it for what I can buy some upper end rods for. So I will just stick with my B'n'M's for now.

[The Lip RIPPERS]

Nate; Congrats on building your own rod! Those are top shelf components and you are going to love it when it's finished. My advise is to look on You-Tube, type in rod building in the search box. Anything I can do to help you just drop me a line....

[gnrboyd]

I'm not a "rod builder" but I did build a fly rod about 25 years ago which I still use. It wasn't too difficult but I did it with a friend who was also building one at the same time that had some experience. I even added a nice diamond wrap to base of the rod and it turned out pretty nice. If you are somewhat handy you shouldn't have any problems.

Today, you can use the internet for instructions on just about anything. YouTube is a great place for "how to" videos although you do have to weed through some of them.

Like I said, I only did one rod and it was 1/4 century ago (I feel old ) but I used a product called Flex Coat to finish the wraps on the rod and it was an excellent product. At that time, it was the best on the market. I also used their color preserver before using the clear finish to keep the colors of the thread from changing as the finish coat was applied.

I think one important piece of getting a good finish is to have a device to spin the rod as the finish drys. My friend had made a "rod rotisserie" that turned at a very slow rpm. This allows the rod finish to coat evenly around the wraps and not leave lumps. I believe he used a motor out of an old sewing machine if I remember correctly.

I can also tell you that if your only goal to build a rod is to save money, you should just quit now. You might be able to save a buck or two but I doubt if you will see much savings. The real reward is creating something unique and custom that you can be proud of.

Sorry.. I can't really speak for the quality of the components you've picked out as I'm outdated in my knowledge on the subject. I used to work in a sporting goods store in the 80s and Fenwick and Lamiglass were the main brands we carried in blanks. Fuji guides, Gudebrod thread, and Flex Coat finishes were all quality products at that time.

Good luck with your project !