Hi fellow rodbuilders,

I am a Singaporean and enjoys both the American and Japanese styles of rod building. Though very contrasting, both have their merits. I have tried to blend both styles, the bronze of the West and the subtleties of the East. The West is more practical and the East more ornamental. After some 50 rods over the last few years, I have still to figure out which style I prefer. I am almost nearing retirement and will publish all my work on my website now under construction. I hope to be able to contribute for the good of all. Can I hear from you wonderful guys out there, who is better?

Nobody is better, just different. There are plenty of rods built here and abroad that are highly ornamental. There are plenty built here and abroad that focus solely on function. And there are many that focus on both. Again, one is not necessarily "better" than another, they're just different and in many ways are the result of the different markets and demands on custom rods from various locations around the world.

............

I like the Asian style myself, but there arent' many places on the internet where I can see these types of rods. Obviously, Hiro Tanaka has a site where we can see a ton of Asian style rods, and Matagi's site has links to other sites, Andrew's Fishing is one. you know of other sites?

The one advantage teh Asian builders have is they have a lot more components available to them than we do here. The market tehre is also way higher end than here, specifically the Japanese Market where it seems if your rod aint' sporting Cermet's, it's a piece of crap, lol.

Anthony,

It appears you have the best of two worlds as a starting point to develop your own style and follow your instincts. Don't become restrained by either world in designing rods for your own satisfaction and enjoyment and we will all benefit by your efforts.
Most of all enjoy your retirement by doing the things that bring you the greatest satisfaction and best of luck with your website. I look forward to viewing it.

Stan Grace
(Retired in Montana)


Stan Grace
Helena, MT
"Our best is none too good"

Hello Tom, Billy and Stan,

Though I enjoyed to be where I am, as Stan correctly put it, I need to develop my own style. And Billy is also right that we do have the advantage of more ready made components at our disposal but this clearly retards creativity. I have heard and read alot about Tom and I feel very honoured to have such a Guru commenting on my post. I have alot to learn, but I have realised that rod building is just not about blanks and components, it's about passion and it's truely an art.

My home is where the fishes are. I look forward to the days where I can spend more time with them, whereever they are. I used to put a signborad outside my office that says, " Open, but I would rather be out fishing". I am looking forward to the day where I will flip the sighboard which says, " Closed, I am definitely out fishing...forever ".