I'm having a dispute with another builder friend of mine. I told him several years ago that i read if you leave a rod leaning against the wall for too long or hanging from butt to tip with a sag, that after while it would set with the curve to it that you couldn't get out. He said he never heard of such a thing. Can anyone time me who's right? Is this true with rods from years ago and now the new ones don't do that? I'm hoping i'm right so i can win the bet. lol.

Jack:

The old Bamboo rods would take a set. I don't know about the newer rods (from fiberglass on). My Dad cracked me up side the head when he saw me lean one of his bamboo rods up against the camper. Lesson learned.

Mike Bradfrod
R.M.B. Fishing Rods
Nampa, Idaho

I can't say for sure but it would not surprise me at all if it is true. I try to keep my rods and blanks standing vertically or with as many places supported as possible. I figure, better safe than sorry!

I have a Silstar surf rod that has just that problem, top 18 inches are bent back and to the left. Still works fine!

Jack,
Depending on the material, the rod WILL take a set.
That is one of the big reasons why folks prefer to use fiberglass rods for downrigger rods, because fiberglass can be bent nearly double for hours at a time without taking a permanent set.

However, that is NOT the case for graphite rods, which can take a set if left bent for a long period of time.

Take care
REW

I have a few old rods leaning against the wall in my shop that have been there for years. After reading this post, I went to check them and none of them are bent. If they do set, it must take longer than 2-3 years.

Andres Perez
Miami, Fl

Graphite rods are not prone to taking a set. Glass, and certainly bamboo, are.

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I try to avoid the problem by using my rods as much as possible... I don't mind when they get a solid bend in them either...

All I can do is report my own experiences. I've had on average, 35 or so rods hanging from the ceiling joists in my shop for the last 20 years, a few of them have been there the whole time. The shop is not heated or cooled. The rods are supported just behind the reel seat and about a third of the way down from the tip. There are only a couple of fiberglass models. I've never noticed any bent rods resulting from this practice. Can't say about rods left leaning in a corner.

I have a glass rod that was stored horizontal with an 8 ounce sinker hanging from it. You bet it took a set right from the point where it was supported.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)