My son got straight A's and I asked him what he wants for a reward. He wants his own surf rod. Ok, game on.
I went and bought a $35 10' "grit stick" from Walmart and stripped it down. Action isn't bad for the price. I kinda hate the glue they're using. But then I doubt they're building them with customers like me in mind. But with some Fuji guides and seat I bet it'll do just fine. Updates and pictures to come.
I asked him what colors he wants. He says purple, green, and blue. I can work with that.
This sounds like another great project, Jason! Can't wait to see how it looks when you are finished.
I like cheap rods for bottom fishing... Eagle Claw Cat Claw, Berkley Big Game, Shakespeare Tiger, Ugly Stik GX2. I need to learn rod building skills so I can replace guides and reel seats.
Quote from: work2fish on March 28, 2026, 12:33:22 PMThis sounds like another great project, Jason! Can't wait to see how it looks when you are finished.
I like cheap rods for bottom fishing... Eagle Claw Cat Claw, Berkley Big Game, Shakespeare Tiger, Ugly Stik GX2. I need to learn rod building skills so I can replace guides and reel seats.
It's easier than it seems. Making a workable rod or a workable repair is super easy, anyone could do it, and you don't need fancy equipment if you're a bit creative. Making a work of art takes some practice.
I grew up fishing these budget fiberglass/composite rods from Walmart etc. so to me, even though I obviously also appreciate a high quality lightweight modern blank, I'll always enjoy the familiar feel of a budget blank.
Also my son is 9. If he snaps it no big deal on the loss of the blank, I can still salvage the hardware.
If it is any help, I have a few project that you can finish that may fit the bill. Just come and get them . Found some guides that can be colored for the theme look .
Quote from: JasonGotaProblem on March 28, 2026, 01:30:22 PMIt's easier than it seems. Making a workable rod or a workable repair is super easy, anyone could do it, and you don't need fancy equipment if you're a bit creative. Making a work of art takes some practice.
I got a rod building kit for my birthday a few months ago, with the blank, components, and some tools, from Mud Hole. Once I finish a couple reel projects I'm going to try to build the kit rod to learn some rod-building skills. Then I'll try to repair 4 rods that I've been saving for when I have the skills (grooves in guides, squashed guides).
These rods you are building for your kids are great!
Those look like wood handles, Joe. Beautiful! Did you make them yourself?
Quote from: work2fish on March 28, 2026, 03:48:19 PMThose look like wood handles, Joe. Beautiful! Did you make them yourself?
Yes Some tree branches and scrape wood !!