These are actually great in several ways: 1) You can see the epoxy mix clear up when it's close to being well mixed, 2) The mix spreads out and bubbles are easily seen, and release easily from the mix; 3) Mix remained usable well after the listed working time, plenty of time to finish the 7 ft. rod.
"Pro" tip - Keep the dish around when you are done. Best to finger test the cure (hardness) in the dish, NOT on the rod!