I am planning to attend the Expo and pick up a few blanks and some guides and begin to learn how to build rods. I've never done this before, so I'd like to see if anyone has a 'discarded' blank or piece of a blank I could purchase (as cheaply as possible) to practice wrapping guides on. I'd like a black one so I can see how the colors I've selected would actually look on a finished rod.

I was able to attend the NC NERBS gathering a few weekends ago, and everyone I met was very helpful and although the process seems a bit overwhelming to a beginner, I'd like to give it a try. I've read Tom's book and everything on this site is very helpful.

Thanks-

Michael Hervey
Stanfield, NC

The easiest thing to do is to use an old fishing rod. Tie on the guides. Strip off the old guides if you want to. If you do not plan to do a complete build, this will work.

It is also a good idea to pick up a kit from one of the suppliers. They have some good bargains.

Kyle Robinson

Michael,
If you don't have an old fishing rod, go to the salvation army or good will store in your city. You can often pick up old fishing rods there for less than $1. This is certainly a good source for old rods, and or blank material, if you need repair stock for a broken rod.

Roger

A wooden dowel painted black will also work.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

Michael, you are more than welcome to come up to my place one weekend and we can go over what ever you want 1 on 1

Call Lance at Swampland, if I recall correctly he has some blanks for around 15.00 or so.... they even fish well so don't discount them as just a practice tool. I have built quite a few for people and they love them.

Tom

For practice and to see what the colors look like on black try an old carbon arrow shaft works great.

Mike

Mikes Custom Fly Rods

Everyone-

Thanks for the great suggestions. I have scored a few cheap rods and am going to strip the guides and start practicing.

Chuck Payne-I'd like to get up with you after the first of the year if you have the time. I'll send you an email after the holidays.

Thanks again,

Mike