Hello everyone. I am new to the site and fairly new to rod building. I have built 3 fly rods that have turned out pretty decent but do still have a long way to go. I am in the process of building a spinning rod with micro guides and then have another spinning and casting rod to do.

I am curious as to if anyone knows of anywhere around the pittsburgh area that has classes of some sort or and building shops that would assist me in my endeavor of becoming a better builder. All of my knowledge comes from reading books, forums and from videos on you tube. Therefore I would like to be able to actually in person talk with someone and see some things I am doing right and wrong and to also learn some more general knowledge. I am a "hands on learner" so this would be a big help for me.



Thanks
John

John:
I'm a new builder as well and was fortunate enough to take a Mudhole class. However, if you can't find a class or a mentor, use the internet. There are tons of videos that cover everything from the basics to the advanced. And don't be afraid to post specific questions on boards such as this one......then just start building. The more you do the better you will get. Strip older rods and practice wrapping guides. Thread is cheap. You can use dowell rods but I find that working with tapers and the smaller diameters of actual rods makes better practice.

youtube has every thing on building you could ever want , an then some, on any one subject matter you want , they will have 4 or 5 post all doing the same thing just a little different give it a try
an what you can'tfind there this forum will get it for you SID

William Sidney
AK

Hi John:
I too am from Pittsburgh and there were three different rodbuilding classes years ago but now??? You might want to check with Hook and Hackle a sponsor on the left. They are located in Homestead,Pa. and may be able to help you.

John.
Mud Hole has a lot of tutorials that should be able to help you. check them out on the website. Their two day class is very good as day one you build an entire rod and day two there are demos on a lot of advanced techniques. Contact Mud Hole to see if they are coming to your area in the future. If not, spendig the extra $ to attend a Mud Hole class is well woth the expense.

Buzz

John, I am located in SWPA also. I have a small shop in my basement and would gladly show you what I know and answer any questions you might have.....a long as you dont mind being accosted by a few dogs!