How to Build a Fishing Rod

Many anglers are discovering rod building to get better gear and more enjoyment out of the sport than buying “off the rack”. There are common misconceptions about building your own rod but in fact it is much easier and more affordable than many fisherman think. The benefits to building your own fishing rod are as follows:

Performance: Taking the time to properly spine a blank and assure the guides are aligned correctly ensures your custom rod will out fish any factory made rod.

Weight: As you choose all your components, you can minimize weight which can help increase the overall feel as well as keeping you out on the water longer. It does not matter if you are fishing live bait under a float or throwing a Texas rig worm, a lighter, more sensitive rod is a pleasure to fish.

Enjoyment: This is why we fish! There is nothing like catching a fish on a rod you built.

We have put together the ultimate step-by-step guide to help you along your rod building journey. Enjoy the videos and happy building!

 

Step 1: Find The Blank Spine (1 pc. Blank)

How-To Find The Spine Of A 1pc Rod Blank | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 1: Find The Blank Spine (2+ pc. Blank)

 

How-To Find The Spine Of A Multi-Section Rod Blank | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 2: Install Full / Cork Handle

 

How-To Install A Cork Handle Assembly | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 2: Install Split Grip / EVA Handle

 

How-To Install An EVA Handle Assembly | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 3: Install Spinning Reel Seat

 

How-To Install A Spinning Reel Seat | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 3: Install Casting Reel Seat

 

How-To Install A Casting Reel Seat | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 4: Rod Guide Prep & Spacing

 

How-To Prep & Space Out Your Guides | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 5: Hand Wrapper Set Up

 

How-To Assemble Your HWS1 Hand Wrapper | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 6: Wrapping Rod Guides

 

Wrapping Guides On A Fishing Rod | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 7: Install Tip Top Guide

 

How-To Install A Tip Top On A Fishing Rod | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 8: Install Decals (Optional)

 

How-To Install Custom Decals On A Fishing Rod | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.

Step 9: Apply Finish To Wraps

How-To Apply Epoxy To A Fishing Rod | Rod Building 101 from Mud Hole Custom Tackle™ on Vimeo.