Tom I was told by someone that you had started your own rod building organization a few years ago. Do you still operate it and how does a person learn more about it? Thanks.

I do not now nor have I ever owned or operated any sort of rod building organization.

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Take a look at RBI (sponsor on list at left)

Uncle Russ
Calico Creek Rods

RBI is owned and operated by Joe Douglas.


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It appears to be a rumor being spread by an organization themselves. What else is new.

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If you did start one, it would probably be a great one. Judging by the magazine, this site and the rod expo.

I have neither the time nor the interest. Other than promoting custom rods and custom rod building to the general fishing public, I don't see what purpose any organization really serves. No offense to RBI as they do seem to be filling a niche that has long gone unfilled.

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Sorry to be late to the discussion. I've been out with the flu for a few days. Try to avoid the flu this year if you can, it is not pleasant. Yes, I had a flu shot and I still got it.

I did start and now operate a new rod builders organization at the beginning of this calendar year. It is called Rod Builders International (RBI) and can be reached through the sponsor's link on the left.

To clarify a couple of points:

1) Tom Kirkman is not an onwer of RBI nor does he have any financial interest in the RBI organization. It is owned by myself and my wife...period.
2) Tom, along with more than 70 other rod builders, is a member in good standing of RBI and a valuable asset and friend to the organization.
3) RBI exists to promote custom rod building to the fishing public; to recruit new clients for professional members; and to provide continuing education opportunities for both professional and amateur rod builders world wide.

I invite all of you who are not currently members or sponsors of RBI to view our web site and review our goals. It is an excellent opportuinity to become part of an international organization that is growing and going places. Our international membership is growing and bringing new viewpoints and much needed new blood into the mix. I am pleased with the progress to date and look forward to many new developments during the coming year.

I would be happy to answer any questions or provide any additional information about RBI to anyone.

Thanks, Joe

Joe Douglas