Anyone that did not experience Mark Crouse's seminar on using alternative materials in rod building really missed a great deal of information. Not to take anything away from all the other great seminars and presenters, but Mark really offered some eye opening insight into thinking outside the box in regard to the various materials that are suitable for rod building, and how to actually work with them in the best manner possible. This was one of the best rod building seminars I have ever attended. Tom, you need to have Mark write an article on this topic. He really knows his stuff.

I wanted to see Mark's seminar and got sidetracked. Mark is a wealth of knowledge and I have picked his brain many times. I hope tom does decide to have an article or atleast another seminar next year

Must agree it was my favorite seminar.

I caught him talking to a few people over by the Mudhole booth on my way out on Sunday. In the few minutes I listened I picked up several tips. I have made many birch bark handles, and they came out great, but it seems I have been wasting some usable bark. The more rustic look with the bark "eyes" is pretty cool and I will be giving them a try soon. I like the clean look, but the more rustic look is good as well.

Steve you gotta make me a set of those grips..