Starting a Custom Rod Building Business

Do you enjoy rod building as a hobby? Have you ever heard other people compliment the finished result of your rod building? If you answered yes to either question or if you are just interested in testing the water, then starting a custom building business could be a good option for you.

Basically, to get started there would be a few considerations you would have to keep in mind. Those are listed below and should help you decide if a rod building business is in the cards for you.

High Quality Workmanship

If you’re serious about starting a rod building business, you’ll need to be very confident in your skills. Don’t start such a business if you’ve never crafted your own fishing equipment before or if you’ve only used kits to develop the finished products. The more experience you have going into the industry the more capable you’ll be of satisfying the needs of your customers.

Another good idea is to have built several finished products that can be showcased for potential clients through a web site. People respond well to photographs and to testimonials so build some for your fishing friends and get their feedback for your site.

Setting the Price

Another good reason not to jump into custom rod building as a business without plenty of experience is that you won’t have a good idea of what to charge for your efforts. Although the actual building process doesn’t take much time, you may need to do some shopping and some research to make exactly what the client wants. You also to keep in mind that you’ll charge two prices: one for parts and one for labor. It’s the labor price where you’ll have the most flexibility.

Setting the right price is important. If you don’t charge enough, you’ll be wasting your time and will have nothing to show for it. If you charge too much, you won’t get any business. It’s a delicate balance.

Finding Customers

When you’re starting a rod building business, you’ll need to figure out how to attract new business. You could focus your initial efforts on local customers but eventually you’ll end up wanting to expand. The Internet can be a good source for customers if you do some marketing, such as writing a blog or submitting articles to submission services.

Another idea for finding rod building customers is to create some pieces and sell them on online auction sites. You’d be surprised at how much you could possibly earn for your efforts. Plus, it could be a good way to attract attention to your site and to your services.

Having Good Rod Building Vendors

An essential part of being successful in your rod building business is the vendors you choose for supplies. Obviously, you’ll need to buy components and all of the other elements that go along with rod building so having a place you trust and a place that you can reach conveniently to place orders, such as Sea Isle Tackle, is going to be important.

Learning the Basics of Rod Building

When you’re first rod building, you might feel like there’s too much for you to grasp and there’s no way you’ll ever be able to put together a finished product that will make you happy. Looking at all of the options available can be scary but it doesn’t have to be intimidating and you shouldn’t let that fear deter you from rod building. It’s one of the most rewarding activities – apart from fishing – that we can engage in.

My recommendation is to get involved in learning the basics of rod building now so you’ll feel more prepared for what’s ahead. Below are some recommendations.

Rod Building Kits

You may want to test the waters by using one of these kits first. They are usually affordable and include anything you would need to make a very basic fishing rod. You’re not going to end up with your dream fishing equipment from any of these sets because all of the components are generally fairly cheap. However, if you want to get a hands-on experience this might be the easiest and most affordable way to break the ice.

Step by Step Rod Building by Flex Coat

One of the must-have’s of rod building is a good instruction booklet. Step by Step Rod Building is one of the best books of its kind on the market. It was written by the president of Flex Coat himself and is a thorough explanation of the entire rod building process.

The guide contains 50 pages so it’s definitely a manageable read but also 100 illustrations which show you exactly what needs to be done at each step of the process. The book completely takes the guess work out of rod building. If you’re serious about rod building, you’ll want to get this book. And at under $5 it’s a huge bargain.

How We Do It DVD by Flex Coat

Flex Coat really is one of the leaders in producing how to materials for rod building. This DVD is one of the best examples. It covers everything you need to know, including choosing materials, shaping the handle, and more. The footage is divided into 20 chapters so the information is easy to access when you need it. The DVD costs around $20 which is a very good deal as well.

The best way to use the DVD is to watch the entire thing first to pack everything into your mind and to get you familiar with the basics. Then as you get started watch each of the chapters again so that material will be fresh in your mind but will also make sense with the rest of the process.

Going Online

Another way to learn more about rod building is to ask professionals. The staff at online sites, such as Sea Isle Tackle, is very knowledgeable about this topic and can answer questions you might have. Most of them can be contacted at your convenience through email which makes it easy for you to reach them and get the answers you need.

Rod Building: Cutting Costs 101

One of the most common questions people have about rod building is how much does it cost. Most fishers dream of doing their own rod building but many never try because they are worried that it would simply cost too much. To some extent, these concerns are warranted. The good news is there are some ways to achieve your dream without draining your wallet.

Practice Cheap First

The first thing you should always do if you’re new to rod building is to practice using the cheapest equipment you can find. While it isn’t difficult if you have everything you need and also have some good instructions, rod building can seem a little overwhelming at first. You should be prepared for that feeling. Think of it this way: if you’re just learning how to swim you don’t climb the diving board and jump into the deepest part of the pool. That’s a recipe for disaster.

Instead of jumping ahead and building your dream rod as your first project, practice using a few inexpensive rod kits first then gradually start working your way up to the type of fishing rod you’ve always wanted. It will save you money because you won’t end up wasting those expensive pieces you’ve purchased.

Think like a Computer Geek

Some people are as passionate about computers as we are about fishing. Those folks are also interested in building their own units in order to create a “dream machine” that does exactly what they want. However, the costs for such a system can be pretty exorbitant when compared to getting a computer right out of the box. It’s the same story with rod building, of course.

One solution used by many of these computer people is to purchase the equipment they need one piece at a time as the money becomes available. Sure, they need more patience but they are able to get exactly what they want for their system and don’t have to make compromises just because of cost. In the end, they are usually more satisfied with the finished results.

Make Concessions if You Must

One of the nice things about rod building is that you do get to create the fishing rod you want without some manufacturer deciding which components should be used. All of the decisions are completely yours. That means if you are on a budget you do have the option picking and choosing your components and making compromises somewhere if need be. For example, you may want to spend more on your guides but you may be willing to choose a cheaper blank to compensate. You get to make those choices when you’re rod building so you have more control over costs.

Shop Online

Another way to save money is by purchasing your components online at stores such as Sea Isle Tackle. You’ll generally find lower prices because these stores have less overhead costs. Plus, price and selection are two of the key ways they sell themselves. At the very least, you’ll save on gas because you won’t have to travel to the store to make your rod building purchases.

Our Thoughts on Common Questions about Rod Building

If you’re one of the many fishers who have wondered what it would be like to do some rod building, but you always had some unanswered questions about the process now you can the answer you need. Below we’ve compiled some of the most commonly asked rod building questions and supplied the answers so you’ll finally have access to enough information to decide whether you’re ready to take the customization plunge.

Is Rod Building Time-Consuming or Difficult?

The answer to both of these rod building questions is no. Generally, constructing a fishing rod once you’ve gathered all of the materials takes just a couple of hours. You will have to let the finished product set for a while to let the finish set but we’re not talking about an all day or all week activity here. It’s something you could easily start doing on the weekends.

As far as difficult goes, it’s not as challenging as you might think. In fact, some Boy Scout troops have start doing rod building activities. If you’re worried about the challenge, get some guides and see for yourself how simple it can be. You’ll probably be surprised.

Is Rod Building Expensive?

That’s a difficult question to answer because it really depends on you. Because you have full control over what you add to the finished product, you are the only one who decides how expensive it’s going to be. On average, most builders do spend more on their equipment than other people but that’s because they want the highest quality components they can get and that does add to the price significantly.

The first time may also cost a little more because you’ll need to purchase a few pieces of equipment, such as a utility knife and a brush for applying the epoxy that will be used repeatedly for all of your rod building.

What are the Benefits of Rod Building?

The biggest benefit is that you’ll end up with a finished product that is exactly what you want. If you want something a little heavier, you can make it happen. If you prefer ceramic guides, you can have them. If you want silk thread instead of nylon, you can have it. That’s the beauty of the process – you make all of the decisions.

Another benefit is that you should also see an improvement in your performance and you’ll have a fishing rod you can show off to others. Plus, going through the process can be fun, especially if you’re working on the project with other avid fishers.

How can I Get Started?

The best way to start rod building is to by a guide. You can read through the steps and see what is required in the process, including the specific materials you’ll need to purchase for the project. Once you’ve done that, you’ll just need to start buying the items and preparing your work space. A good place to purchase the equipment is an online store, such as Sea Isle Tackle, because of their selection and convenience.

Four Reason to Start Rod Building in the Fall of 2008

Reasons to Start Rod Building

While we all understand the magic of casting your line into the water, feeling that sharp tug, and reeling in an outstanding catch, not everyone who loves fishing completely grasps the good reasons for rod building. Some people wonder why it’s worth all of the trouble. They say the time, energy, and money used to create a custom rod could be better spent actually fishing. Of course, they wouldn’t say that if they understood some of the good reasons to get started in custom rod building.

Let’s look at some of those reasons.

Reason #1: Customization

Today, we are obsessed with personalizing everything from our cars to our laptops to our bodies so it’s no wonder that some of us don’t want to walk around with the same fishing rod as the person on the other side of the water.

Rod building allows you to have complete creative control over the process. You can choose each specific piece of equipment. You can mix and match manufacturers. You can pick different colors. You can add decals, lettering, colored thread, and more. The sky’s the limit when you’re doing rod building and that’s a huge part of its appeal.

Reason #2: Higher Quality and Rod Building

Because you do have total control over what goes into the finished product, you’ll probably end up with a piece of fishing equipment that is superior to nearly anything you could find pre-made and for sale at your local sporting good store.

With that said, you’ll probably also end up paying more for that higher quality because pre-made rods keep prices affordable by cutting corners. If you’re not interested in saving a few dimes and nickels here and there then you’ll be able to produce a first-class piece of fishing equipment that you’ll be proud to use for years to come.

Reason #3: Higher Performance

The characteristics of our fishing equipment can determine our performance at the water. For example, if we are using a rod that is bit too heavy for us then that could be just enough to throw off our cast and reduce our ability to catch the fish we want. That’s definitely not conducive to good fishing.

With rod building, you can construct a rod that is custom-designed to fit your needs in terms of weight, action, friction, and more. You’ll be able to choose exactly what you want for your rod and have complete control over designing a fishing rod that will let you truly show off your fishing skills.

Reason #4: Rod Building as a Team Effort

Fishing for many of us has always been a family affair. It’s a time when we bond with our kids or our friends or our parents. Rod building allows for a continuation of that bonding, even off the water. While the actual construction of the rod only takes a couple of hours, you’ll have to spend time researching and buying the different components, as well as on deciding what to include in the product. That can give you plenty of time to enjoy being together and bonding over fishing.

Shimano Reels Part III: Round Baitcasting Shimano Reels & why they’re so popular

Baitcasting reels are typically some of the most popular fishing reels for a number of reasons. First, they’re great for wrestling with a fish. Nothing holds out strong in a fight like a Shimano Reel, particularly a Round Baitcaster.

Do you ever have trouble casting? These Shimano Reels are great for casting if you have trouble keeping the cast under control.

If your preference is heavy line, grab one of these Shimano Reels. For light line, no so much, but for you deep sea fishermen out there, these Round Baitcasting Shimano Reels handle heave line like a charm.

And, if you’re like me, you might have trouble (occasionally – let’s face it, even the best have issues sometimes…) placing the lure exactly where you want. Round Baitcasing Shimano Reels facilitate spool thumbing, thus allowing you to place the lure exactly where you want it. Pretty cool, huh? Personally, I wish more reels had this feature.

I know I said the Round Baitcaster was a piece of cake to cast, and I might have exaggerated a little bit. Let me clarify:

1. Shimano Reels are easier that most to cast
2. Baitcasters, by nature, require more skill to cast
3. Round Baitcasting Shimano Reels take practice to learn but are easier than most

Also, as discussed above, this is a Fishing Reel for a heavy lure / line combo. Don’t even think about tossing out a light lure – this Shimano Reel won’t do it.

The good news is that you can expect pricing to start around $70 bucks. Not bad for Shimano Reels, right?

Ok, let’s talk about the negatives. I know I’ve been pumping up Baitcaster, but I have to be honest with you – there are a few ugly truths about baitcasters.

With Baitcasters, you’re going to get backlashes. Just a matter of fact. Certainly nothing against Shimano Reels. So if you’ve got your heart set on a round bait casting Shimano Reel, just expect to spend a little (and I do mean a little, not a lot) of time working out backlashes.

Another downer about baitcasters is that they’re one of the more complicated reels (part wise) out there. Cleaning this puppy will be a chore. But then, cleaning any reel can be a chore! Luckily, Shimano Reels are constructed extremely well, so you’ll be impressed when you take it apart for that initial cleaning. Then again, you could always out-source your cleaning…

All in all, every true fisherman needs a baitcaster. My preference: Shimano Baitcasting Reels. They’re the best, hands down. Round out your collection if you don’t own one already. You’ll regret not being able to use the round baitcaster when you’re in a situation that demands one. And trust me, the cleaning isn’t that bad. That’s the best part about going with Shimano Reels – any negatives are so few and far between that they’re totally worth it!

It’s like comparing coca-cola and pepsi (sorry pepsi fans!).

Seriously though, one is clearly better. And in the case of Round Baitcasters, nothing beats Shimano Reels.

Round out that collection, check out Shimano’s line of Round Baitcasters today.

Shimano Reels Part II: For Low Profile Baitcasting, nothing works quite like a Shimano Low Profile Baitcasting Reel

You won’t believe the sleek design and elegant performance of Shimano’s line of Low Profile Baitcasters - these babies are awesome!

Today, we’re going to have an educational post about Baitcasting reels. Of course, for baitcasting, Shimano Reels are the best, but we’ll let you form your own opinion.

First, if you’re a bass fisherman, you’ll definitely want to invest in a baitcasting reel. Bait casting reels were designed specifically for bass fishing. Although learning to use a baitcasting reel can be tough, they are well worth the time and patience.

Of course, your experience with a baitcasting reel will largely depend on the brand you select. It will be important to pick a great brand in fishing reels, like a Shimano Reel. Not only are these reels a leader in their industry, Shimano Reels take the effort out of fishing. With baitcasting being a more tricky type of sport fishing to learn, having a Shimano baitcasting reel will put you ahead of the curve.

You’ll want to spool your baitcasting reel with a moderately heavy test line, anywhere between 14 and 20, and be sure to use a monofilament line. By spooling with a heavier line, you’ll have a much easier time learning to cast.

Next, only spool about half of the reel. Spooling the entire reel causes two problems:

1. A heavier reel

2. Potential backlashes

Save yourself a little frustration and just start with a half spool. If you decide you need more line, you can always add more later.

Casting a baitcaster is all about your thumb. This is going to take practice, so both practice and patience will be key here. Your thumb will be controlling the spool of line and will need to engrain a few new habits. A bit of good news is that the thumb can easily be trained without being on the boat, so don’t worry – you won’t be wasting precious fishing time. Practice loosening the spool control on your baitcasting reel, letting the weight drop, and using your thumb to catch the line right before the weight hits the floor.

Here’s the best part – this can be practiced at home in front of the TV, on your back porch, or practically anywhere.

Picking the right low profile baitcaster is as important as learning how to cast one correctly. In my experience, Shimano’s low profile baitcating reels are the best on the market. I’ll tell you a little about my favorite Shimano Reel and why I like it best.

The Shimano Curado is very light reel and is extremely easy to learn to cast. As discussed above, casting a low profile baitcaster is no piece of cake! However, the Shimano Curado sure makes life much easier. Let’s face it, who wants to spend valuable fishing hours practicing?

The low profile baitcasting line of Shimano Reels is of the most compact and light weight lines of fishing reels available. If these are your criteria then the low profile baitcasting Shimano Reels are for you.

With Shimano Reels like the Curado, you’ll be out on the water and fillin’ up the boat in no time!

Check out low profile baitcasting Shimano Reels like the Shimano Curado today!