44 minutes ago, MickD said:

It's not rocket science, and by building your own you get what you prefer.  There are thousands of blanks out there, and some are offered with objective descriptions for power and action, something I've never seen on a "built rod."   I don't have a single store bought rod that I use, nor does my son, daughter in law, granddaughter or grandson. But I warn you, it may not be as addictive as tying flies, but it's close.  Don't expect to save any money.  Expect to get better rods.

Thank you. I am thinking on it, and researching some of what's involved currently.

I did learn some about how to replace tiptops.

 

I was in need of a new tiptop (for a different rod than the Zebco) I mentioned. I removed a stainless tiptop from a cheap rod and put it on the other rod. It worked for a month and even though I was running mono, it grooved. Course I probably fished it 40 hours during that period.

 

I got to get a better glue, the glue I got is Custom Rod Builders off ebay, and it's so soft when dry that I can force the tiptop to move. But It was suitable practice and I think I have it figured out.

 

I'm still using the old Zebco, and it's still holding up. I sured up a loose guide with clear nail polish.

On 5/20/2024 at 6:14 AM, fin said:

Buying rods is the hardest decision in fishing purchases for me by far.

X2

On 5/19/2024 at 9:48 PM, Bazoo said:

Well, I've since been on the search for fiberglass rods that are suitable to me, and I can't find anything. The above brightriver is confusing... I take it they aren't sold ready to go? I can't find them, only rods without seats. And the $400 price is a deal breaker.

 

I want a 6' with straight cork grip, medium power.

 

I'm thinking I might end up having a custom rod built... I wonder how much that'd cost? I ain't picky... but I also want it to fall within certain parameters.

Cork is a issue maybe you might have to work around that. Shimano still makes the fx series rod. They are made very well. My grands use this rod when they go fishing with me. My understanding is the only thing that has changed with them is the color over the years. They have ceramic guides also. These rods are inexpensive so it don't cost a lot to try one 

11 hours ago, rgasr63 said:

Cork is a issue maybe you might have to work around that. Shimano still makes the fx series rod. They are made very well. My grands use this rod when they go fishing with me. My understanding is the only thing that has changed with them is the color over the years. They have ceramic guides also. These rods are inexpensive so it don't cost a lot to try one 

Thanks.