Does anybody test a rod before buying? Like a complete rig up and casting? I'm looking to build a rod on an Avid X blank and really want to test cast it to make sure it does what I want with my little jigs before I make the investment. Would this be ok to go to Cabelas and ask to do this and not even buy the rod?

I've never done this or seen anyone do it. They will let you bring your reel in to pair it to the rod. Don't know about casting though.

You can take your own reel, line and a casting plug, just be sure to have it checked in at the door before going inside.

Tom

I'd imagine a place like Bass Pro would allow it like @WRB

said. I've taken reels to BPS and tested rods, but not cast

with them. By tested I mean balance and such.

buy the rod,throw a 1/2 oz plug for a couple days in the yard.Just dont nick it up.Return it for srore credit until you find what you want.

Fly rods are the only outfitters that I see this happening. Most of the times they ask if you want to go out and cast as part of the sales pitch. 

15 hours ago, SFL BassHunter said:

I've never done this or seen anyone do it. They will let you bring your reel in to pair it to the rod. Don't know about casting though.

 

I do all the time & have for years

 

I'm spending a couple hundred dollars in your store & you gonna tell me I can't!

 

When it comes to flipping, pitching, & punching rods...yea I'm that picky!