Building my first and second rod, I used the best cork rings I could find. After shaping them to fit my hand, I decided to forgo filler and sealer.

What could happen to my cork grip without either of these on it?

Thanks.

You will probably enjoy catching a lot of fish. The next thing, from a feel standpoint, to au natural is the use of one coat of Cork Seal by Trondak. It will minimize the staining of the cork due to contact with the elements, very slightly darken the cork and make minimum change to the tactile feel of the real thing. The primary use of most sealers and fillers is to lock in the excess fillers used in the production of inferior preformed cork grips and to prepare the surface for those who want a high gloss appearance.

At some point it will turn dark and maybe dirty, if you're fortunate enough to catch lots of fish with it. Most cork grips never see any sort of sealer or top coat. Cork is a very unique material and can be cleaned if and when you feel it's necessary.

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I have never put anything on a cork grip. After 20 years or so it gets brown and dark. Cork is "sealed" naturally against water. That is why it floats.

I like the feel of an unsealed cork grip. After a few months/years of use it takes on that nice deep color, and just gets more comfortable.

Good information. Thanks to all.