Custom Swimbait Rod

[BD]

I talked to a gentlemen yesterday about making a rod for me and he thinks he can. While talking about the details etc. he said he tapes the guides down and then wraps them in a nylon fabric. My question is, is that 'acceptable' practice?

Other than that it will be an IM-8, 7-6 to 7-9 (not sure what I want just yet), one piece x heavy with blank thru handle, fuji guides, reel seat, and tip. I asked him to get the specs right on with the daiwa heartland as far as lure weight.

Can you all also recommend what to be looking OUT for as far as this build?

Thank you very much.

[flechero]

Most of us tape guides on... both for testing and wrapping.  Once we start wrapping the (nylon) thread the tape comes off.  The tape only holds the guide on the blank until the thread is far enough up the foot to hold- then the tape is peeled off and thread goes over the rest of the guide's foot.

My only hesitation would be that he said he "thinks" he can build this rod.  I'd suggest talking to him a little more about specifics and get a comfort level with him.  There are lots of good rod buiulders out there and no reason you should have reservations about your new custom built rod or it's builder.

[Mattlures]

The Diawa Heartland is a poor choice to use as an example. The rod works fine for my sized baits but anything larger and its way to soft.

[wickyman]

Yeah, I would talk to him a lot more before you go ahead with the build.  Get yourself an idea of his skills, ask to see products he has previously built.  There is nothing like having a pole break due to shauddy craftsmanship!  Believe me!  Make sure that he is capable in his techniques, and see how he is able to produce a quality rod!  My brother in law dabbles as a hobby, in the art of rod building, and he does a really nice job.  But I wouldn't trust some of his earlier rods!  How long has your guy been building rods, and ask all sorts of questions, just to get an idea of what he can be capable of!  

1.) How long has he been building rods?

2.) How many rods has he built in that time?

3.) How long does it take to build each rod?

4.) Can he show you anything he has built?

Just a few questions I would ask him before getting too deep into a deal!  Maybe ask to see the rod as he goes along.  Sometimes that helps me see a bigger picture of a builder's quality!

[Low_Budget_Hooker]

If he can't do it, I'm sure one of the many guys who post in this section can.