July'99
We get many anglers that come into our store and say, "I want a custom rod." Which usually starts a series of questions that the angler has to answer before we even consider to build them a custom rod. It may sound like we are trying to turn away business but we would rather do that than build you something you really do not need. This is the primary reason we do not build rods from an on-line order. Without actually being "fitted", pulling and discussing all your different options, you are just getting a "fancy" factory rod.
The first question is how often you are going to be fishing with your custom rod? If you are only going to use it one or two days a year, a custom rod may not be a good investment. The more often you use a custom rod the more you will realize why you had it built. A quality factory is more than adequate for the occasional angler. You will save money and still have a good fishing rod. You might even save your marriage.
Many may have thought the first question should be what will you be using the custom rod for. That is the second question we ask. The more information you can give the rod builder the better the "fit" will be. We need more than "I want a rod for yellowtail fishing." A much better answer would be, "I need a yo-yo iron rod for Guadalupe Island fishing. Your rod builder should know what you are talking about. If not, it is time to find another one. That is also a reason why we do not build many fly rods.
How do you know what you want the rod for? Well, we hope that you have had a few trips under your belt before you get a custom rod. The more fishing experience you have, the easier it is know what you need. Do we build rods for newcomers to long range fishing? Yes, but it is difficult to convince them what they will and will not need.
So we know what you want the rod for, what is next. We ask about your fishing skills and physical abilities. This is the one area that fishermen should not "lie" about. You may think that you can fool your rod builder but you are only fooling yourself. Rod builders will use all the information they can to build a rod that fits your needs. If you have a bad back or have very limited experience and do not tell the rod builder you may get a rod the will hurt you more than it hurts the fish. So be honest.
The next question will be what type of rod action do you want? How do you know? Well this goes back to your fishing experience. The more experience you have the easier it will be. Let the rod builder know what you liked or disliked about the rods you already have. Do not be afraid to bring them with you. The rod builder can check out what you have and make changes to your set-ups. You may have what you need and do not know it. Be sure to "pull on" different rod blanks before you decide on which blank and which rod action is best for you.
Now, the hard questions like type of guides, which reel seat and what colors for the wraps? For guides and reel seats we would use the best you can afford. When it comes to guides we ask question about how the angler takes care of his equipment. Each style of guides has their good and bad points so discuss them with the rod builder. A good graphite reel seat is fine for light line. As you move up to the heavier line, you may want to change to aluminum reel seats. Be sure to tell the rod builder what reel you plan to use with the rod. This will also help in deciding which seat to use.
As for colors of guide wraps that is up to angler. If you want your rod to "look different" then take the time to pick colors that you want on your rod. Just remember the colors that you choose should look good to you because you will be the one using the rod. If you pick from a "sample of colors" then there is a good chance that someone else may also have rods with the same color as you.
As for how long will it take to get my
new rod? That depends on how busy the rod builder is. A good rod builder can
build a rod that is ready to fishing in about a week or two. But do not expect
to walk into a custom rod shop and get your rod in two weeks. Most good shops
are working on at least a month wait if not longer. It is a good idea to place
your order about 4 to 6 months prior to when you need the rod. It is never a
good idea to rush a rod builder. Rod builders are artists and they need time to
do their best work.
The customer usually asks the final question. How much will the rod cost? That will depend on the rod builder and what they feel their knowledge and labor are worth. Rod builders will tons of experience is not cheap. But their experience will save you money in the long run. You will have a collection of quality fishing equipment that will last you a lifetime.
I hope this help you understand what is
involved in getting a custom rod and giving you a better idea of what you need
to know in advance.