I was recently asked to restore an old bamboo rod. The guy said his friend's grandpa had two of them and he gave this guy one that needed fixing. He would like to keep the original cork grip, but nothing else. I have a few questions about this restoration. Is there any possible way to remove the reel seat (boiling water) without damaging the grip? I'm going to be refinishing the entire rod, should I use permagloss or just a regular spar urethane finish. Should I try spraying the finish(see autobody painter=me) or just using a sponge with a hole in it, ect? I think I'll replace all the guides and ferrules as they are pretty rough. He also wondered if it would be suitable to fish with, bearing in mind he hooks lots of trout 18" plus. He would like to have a reel seat similar to the old down locking seat thats on it now. Will there be some vendors there with bamboo restoration products? Would there be someone at the show to tell me its value before I began work? Should I just bring the rod, ask for advice and purchase everything while I'm there? Sorry for all the questions, just trying to learn.

Bring the rod, there will be many there who can advise and help you.

Come see me in High Point . I'll be happy to help you with this.