mudhole kits

[shootermcbob]

Is there value in the purchase of the mudhole rod kits? 

 

 I am looking at the bradley Roy 7'3" MH kit? 

 

Thanks for the help

[Tim Kelly]

If you don't want to build a rod in a specific way it's probably excellent, though quite why you'd build a rod rather than buying a ready made one if you don't have something specific you want from the build is another question.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

I’ve never bought a kit but if I were to consider it I’d price the components separately to see how much the kit saves. 

[shootermcbob]

Thanks Mike. I have done that, and to get started, the kit saves well over a hundred dollars. Then, I will have the tools, at least to start, to experiment with different blanks and components while having the necessary equipment to build. 

On 5/16/2019 at 12:53 PM, Tim Kelly said:

If you don't want to build a rod in a specific way it's probably excellent, though quite why you'd build a rod rather than buying a ready made one if you don't have something specific you want from the build is another question.

Having never built a rod, I am thinking I may just enjoy the process. I currently do not possess the knowledge to "know what I may or may not prefer" in a custom rod. I do know that I prefer a shorter handle for jerkbaits and topwater rods, but do not necessarily know which blank, which guides, which reel seats, etc I may prefer. I could just as easily spend the money on another rod, but I wouldn't be building it. I may buy the kit, build the rod, and think...this sucks...in which case I would still have the rod and re-sell the equipment. I guess the reasoning would be to try something new if that makes sense. 

[Tim Kelly]

That's entirely fair, hope you enjoy it. I don't think I ever save money making a rod as buying the components is so much more expensive for individuals than it is for rod companies. I've actually bought two St Croix Legends and stripped the handles off them and built them as I like them as it was cheaper to buy a built rod than to buy the components to build it from scratch.

[shootermcbob]

Thanks Tim. I have some thoughts on some different rods...as mentioned jerkbait and topwater, and also a crankbait rod. Saving money on the kit makes sense to me...I know the habit will more expensive than just buying a rod. However, If I do like it, I think there would be an overall feeling of satisfaction in using rods that I have built. 

[Alex from GA]

There's a bunch of satisfaction in catching a fish on a rod that you built and a fly that you tied or a lure you poured and put together.  And rod building is habit forming, I've been doing it for 68 years.

[shootermcbob]

3 hours ago, Alex from GA said:

There's a bunch of satisfaction in catching a fish on a rod that you built and a fly that you tied or a lure you poured and put together.  And rod building is habit forming, I've been doing it for 68 years.

Alex...68 years of rod building...you are THE MAN!!!

 

I will keep your name close at hand when I make the plunge. I bet you have a wealth of information. 

 

How many rods do you estimate you have built?