if the line guides on your rod get damaged or nicked, is all hope lost? can they be replaced or repaired? does anyone have experience with this? do you know any articles, or just have any advice. Thanks for the help!

You can replace them.

Not "you" but someone who knows what they are doing.

Check with a local tackle shop as they probably have the name of someone in your area who repairs rods and reels.

I have had a number of line guides replaced in past years and the rods work just like new.  

Yes they can be replaced..

But if you have never done it like Sam says find a local in your area that does rod repair..

Reference this thread for what needs to be done...

http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1241352423

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!  

alright thanks for the input guys!