10/13/2026
Custom rods vs off the rack specials. If you fish dead-stick methods or spend most of your time staring at a trolling set up, by all means buy that big box sale rod. I cant do much to help you other than repair work. Sensitivity and materials: budget rods are primarily manufactured of fiberglass with Eva grips covered up with advertising and heavy epoxy. Most use substandard guides with ceramic rings. Its simple build cheap sell cheap.
I fish in the realm of finesse or bottom-contact where it’s critical to feel the difference between mud and shell. In this world we use rods built with high-modulus carbon fiber, graphite or composite blends that translate that subtle tap into a solid hook set. This is true: Weight is the enemy of performance. These rods are significantly lighter and balanced which reduces fatigue at the end of the day. Wait there’s more… A custom rod built with a carbon fiber reel seat connects your fingers to the rod tip. What does that mean Bill? As I work a jig in contact with the bottom it’s like I can see the shells and gravel. When a cold water lethargic trout picks up my bait I know it instantly.  My customers will tell you I ask a lot of questions when discussing a new build. As a rod builder i build rods with one goal in mind. That is to provide my clients with a product that will help them become a better angler. If you have a question about a new build. If you have a concern about the set-up you are using now, feel free to ask a rod builder. We are here to help.
