I just applied a decal on my first coat of epoxy and decided not to usr it. Of course, now there's a sticky residue left behind. What's the best way to remove this without worrying about fisheyes? Right now I'm thinking of a slight sanding with 1500 grit sandpaper. Any suggestions?

Just use a bit of mineral spirits. Mineral spirits will nicely mix with the adhesive and remove it.
Once the sticky residue is removed. Then, wipe down the area with denatured alcohol to reomove the oily residue left by the mineral spirits.

By the way , mineral spirits may also be called common paint thinner.

Or, if you have a can of "goof off" that will also nicely remove the residue with little problem.

Roger

A damp paper towel using Rubbing alcohol will also work Damp not overly socking wet
I use it for most all cleaning projects

Bill - willierods.com

Goof Off, or the original Goo Gone works great for this. It does leave a little residue so clean with alcohol, and then rebuff with a scotch pad (grey) before relabeling and finish.

Terry

If you scoff the area before putting on the decal and the decal is clear it will show though the decal and look foggy You should put a thin coat of finish on so it is clear Let dry and try again

Bill - willierods.com

Used some distilled vinegar then a little alcohol. Washed with water then let dry. Epoxy looks awful. Oh well, I've already stripped the entire area and am starting over. I've been building rods for several years now and this is my first real failure. Guess I was due one!