I have a couple of older rods from BPS. They are the higher end models, but I have noticed the black plastic part that makes up the reel seat, lock ring, and trigger grip have become sticky. I tried washing with soap and it is still sticky. A friend said it happens to some plastics as they age and start to breakdown? Any other suggestions to get rid of that sticky feeling. The rods are still like new except for this sticky part. Thanks.

I'd try wiping them down with denatured alcohol.  If that doesn't work, try naphtha.  Both are mild solvents and won't harm the reel seat.

I'd try wiping them down with denatured alcohol.  If that doesn't work, try naphtha.  Both are mild solvents and won't harm the reel seat.

+1 on the denatured alcohol, that stuff removes almost anything.