Custom Rods - What You Need To Know

[Glenn]

If you're thinking about going custom, here are things you need to consider. Let me know what you think about this video!

 

 

[kickerfish1]

Pretty good video. I think the number of guides comment can go either way. Too many guides will way the rod done some and to little will result in more line slap. Static testing is usually the best way to determine the number and placement of guides. Another thing to consider is the size of the guide (single vs double foot) and also the type of guides (micro, macro, traditional, etc).

You are right about the cost to get into an "ok" level custom rod being about $200. You have to figure the builders labor, shipping expense, and msc shop supplies. These 3 can easily hit $100 or better depending upon the complexity of the build.

The last thing to keep in mind is that while the blank will have a warranty supplied by the manufacturer, the replacement costs are not as simple as send it and we will determine what the cause of the break was and send you a new one in a week. There is also no $100 replacement warranty piece either. Break a custom rod and you will have to see what can be salvaged and what needs to be ordered again, not to mention you are likely waiting a good month if not longer for the new rod as the builder will have to order the components and assemble it again.

Custom rods are not for everyone and not always the most cost effective. However, they do truly allow the user to get what they want to a "T". The limits are only ones imagination and budget, as well as what the builder is capable of to an extent.

 

[MickD]

C +.   Some good, some misleading.  He talks about $200 entering the custom market then shows a $150 blank with probably 75- 100 more in components, with nothing for the labor of the builder.  If he wants to talk about a $200 custom rod, show a blank, like RX6 or maybe Revelation that might build into a $200 rod.  With good guides, but not the holographic ones which are pretty pricey.  

One big advantage of a custom build is quality of the cork (usually), but that's pricey too.  Another advantage not mentioned is that custom rods usually are structurally better with respect to reel seat to blank integrity.  Many factory rods use cardboard shims and insufficient epoxy while custom builders use better shims and plenty of epoxy, totally encapsulating the shims to prevent long term deterioration due to water.  

He obviously doesn't understand the spline of a blank. He makes the point on  custom tailoring of the rods' proportions as required to fit the owner properly quite well.  More guides are good for sensitivity and line control for better casting and feeling what's going on , but he misleads on the line being damaged by contacting the blank.  That is not true.  Better to not even mention that aspect of the design and stick to the better performance offered by extra guides.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Ya you want to use the ultimate number of guides which may be more or less than something else. Spline is 1980's theory that has been largely replaced by straightest axis but it's all debatable . Overall it's nice to see the craft and advantages of custom rods being supported and presented to an audience like BassResource.com. 

[Batson]

Thanks for your support Glenn, you did a good job talking about the rod and components.

It’s a great start on information for people that don’t know anything about custom rods – many people are intimidated by the thought getting a custom rod.

Obviously those of us who build or have built know the options are endless, which of course is the awesome part about custom rods. I have the luxury of having one of the World Rods in the office next to mine, as well as multiple rods built by the masters in the industry to see.

Custom rods are easier than most think, not scary, especially when having it built by a builder. Just be ready to be overwhelmed with the variety of options out there. 

If any of you rod builders, or someone just curious about custom rods, is in Western Washington (we're in Sequim, WA) feel free to stop by the offices. We'll gladly give you a tour and see the variety of options. 

[fish'n Jim]

It's too long and wordy in my opinion, you lose track about one third in.   Too extemporaneous.

Tell them what you're going to tell them, tell them, then repeat what you told them is the best presentation advice I ever got.   Helps organize your thoughts as well, for slides, etc.  Work from an outline.   Plus repetition drives home the message.

You should get a transcript and count the number of words/times you said certain things, and weigh if it's overkill or necessary.   "$200" for instance.   That's about all I took away, as others, from this.

I don't think anyone has successfully made the argument for custom rods in the ~50 years, I've been doing rods, so don't feel bad.

[Angry John]

2 hours ago, fish'n Jim said:

It's too long and wordy in my opinion, you lose track about one third in.   Too extemporaneous.

Tell them what you're going to tell them, tell them, then repeat what you told them is the best presentation advice I ever got.   Helps organize your thoughts as well, for slides, etc.  Work from an outline.   Plus repetition drives home the message.

You should get a transcript and count the number of words/times you said certain things, and weigh if it's overkill or necessary.   "$200" for instance.   That's about all I took away, as others, from this.

I don't think anyone has successfully made the argument for custom rods in the ~50 years, I've been doing rods, so don't feel bad.

you sound like a navy instructor.  Been to training lately?  Its how i trained many people must be because its a science  that works!!!!