Are You Ready For the Next Challenge?
Join the ultimate showdown of custom rod building with the 2026 Mud Hole Rod Building Challenge! For over a decade, talented rod builders from across the globe have been competing to be crowned the world's top custom builder. This year, all participants will craft their rods using the same mystery blank, showcasing their skills, techniques, and unique style to maximize the blank's performance and create the world’s most amazing custom fishing rods.
1st Place
$1,500*
2nd Place
$750*
3rd Place
$500*
$500 Prize*
Builder's Choice Award
Showcase your rod-building skills and compete for the Builders' Choice Award at the Mud Hole Rod Building Challenge! After our judges select the top 10 custom rods, you can vote online for your favorite entry to win a $500* prize.
*Mud Hole Store Credit. All credits are at retail value.
Pickup available at Warehouse
Usually ready in 24 hours
2026 Mud Hole Rod Building Challenge Mystery Blank
Warehouse
2133 Component Loop
Suite 1001
Oviedo FL 32765
United States
Submission Deadline
Mar. 4th, 2026
Ensure your finished rod is received by Mud Hole by this date. Detailed shipping instructions are provided below. Rods may also be dropped off at ICRBE, Feb 27th-March 1st for full judging back at Mud Hole HQ in Florida
Top Ten Announcement
Mar. 11th, 2026
A panel of rod building professionals at Mud Hole in Florida will judge competitor rods. Following judging, the top ten rods will be announced on social media and by email.
Winner Announcement
March. 17th, 2026
First, Second, and Third will be revealed during a live show on Mud Hole’s Facebook and YouTube channels.
Contest Rules
Blank Requirements
All participants must use at least 50% of the mystery blank.
Photo Guidelines
No social media posting of your work before the competition.
Judging Criteria
- Appearance
- Functionality
- Design
- Grips & Handle Design
- Guide Placement & Straightness
- Threadwork
- Finish Application
- Cleanliness
- Choice and Flow of Components
- Innovation
All participants must use at least 50% of the mystery blank.
No social media posting of your work before the competition.
- Appearance
- Functionality
- Design
- Grips & Handle Design
- Guide Placement & Straightness
- Threadwork
- Finish Application
- Cleanliness
- Choice and Flow of Components
- Innovation
How It Works
Completed rods will be judged at Mud Hole HQ in Oviedo, FL, to select the top ten. These ten rods will then be submitted for the final round of judging. The announcement of the top three competitors will then be broadcast live. Winning entries will also be shared across social media platforms and top industry forums for the entire rod building community to enjoy.
The judging process is transparent and fair. The top ten rods from all entries will be chosen by a committee of professional custom rod builders, separate from the judges. The contest judges will score each of the top ten rods to determine the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Competition rods will be graded on overall appearance and functionality.
Shipping Info
If you are not bringing the rod to the ICRBE, entries must be received by Mud Hole no later than March 4th, 2026.
Ship to: Mud Hole Rod Building Contest
2133 Component Loop, Suite 1001, Oviedo, Fl 32765
Attn: Kevin Landers MHRBC
Damage Disclaimer
By participating in this contest, entrants acknowledge and agree to the following:
- Product Shipping: Entrants are responsible for the safe and timely shipment of products to Mud Hole. Proper packaging and insurance are strongly recommended.
- Shipping Damage: Entrants assume full responsibility for any product damage during shipping to Mud Hole.
- Product Condition: Upon receipt, Mud Hole will inspect the products for damage. Any damage beyond normal wear and tear will be the entrant’s responsibility.
- Return Shipping: Mud Hole will be responsible for returning the products. However, we cannot guarantee against damage during return shipping.
It is strongly recommended that entrants insure the products during their initial shipment to us.
I've had a blast being part of the competition these past three years. My first year, I was over the moon when my rod made it into the top 10—I hadn't even been to any rod building shows to see how my work stacked up! The next two years, I landed in 3rd place, and I couldn't be more thrilled to have placed so high among builders from all over the world. I'm excited to see what I might create for this year's competition. If you're a builder, I highly recommend jumping in—it'll make you even better!
The competition was where my growth as a rod builder truly began. Each year, I could see my mistakes and work on improving them. I believe that participating in the International Custom Rod Building challenge is both educational and enjoyable, as it encourages you to push your boundaries and try new techniques.
For the past three years, the rod building challenge has been exactly that—a 'Challenge' that pushes me out of my comfort zone to explore new ideas and develop innovative techniques in the world of custom rod building.
I highly recommend entering this challenge to anyone. Trust me, you'll learn new things, push yourself to improve, and most importantly, have a lot of fun!
Join the Facebook Group!
Join the Mud Hole Live Rod Builders' Workshop Group for the latest updates on the Mud Hole Rod Building Challenge, and share your creations when you're done!
Join NowFAQ
You may have questions about the Mud Hole Rod Building Challenge. No worries, here are some frequently asked questions and answers!
How many blanks can I buy?
One per person; you must use at least 50% of the blank for the rod.
Can I bring my rod to ICRBE instead of shipping it?
Of course!
Who are the judges?
To maintain fairness and transparency, judges will be announced in March. The judges include master rod builders, media, anglers, and respected people from across the fishing community.
When can I post pictures of my rod?
Photos can be posted once the top ten are announced after ICRBE. If you are not selected as part of the top ten, you can share pictures of your rod. If you are a part of the top ten, you can share photos after the announcement of the top three.
What parts can I use?
The only part that must be used is the mystery blank. Participants may use any other supplies and/or components.
Why can't I use my own blank?
One of the most significant skills of a rod builder is determining their design based on the characteristics of the blank. Keeping the same blank across the competition keeps the competition fair and impartial.
Is the Mud Hole Rod Building Challenge a continuation of the former International Rod Building Challenge?
Yes. As the world leader in custom rod building, Mud Hole is the driving force behind the competition. As in previous years, rod builders from across the globe are encouraged to compete and showcase their rod building skills with the goal of being recognized as the world's best in our craft.
How do I sign up?
By purchasing the mystery blank, you have signed up to compete.
Can I paint the blank?
Absolutely! You have creative freedom regarding the rod's aesthetics. For a valid entry, you must use 50% of the blank.
Can I submit parts other than just the rod?
No. This is a rod-building contest, and to keep it fair, it is just about the custom-built rod.
Who can I talk with if I have other questions?
Feel free to email: mhrbc@mudhole.com
Contact Us
Any Additional Questions?
Any questions or concerns can be emailed to mhrbc@mudhole.com or by filling out our contact form:
