Sort of a neophyte question: When test casting a flyrod, it is obviously a good idea to wrap the female ferrule(s) to prevent splitting. My question is, however, how diligent must you be? Do you thread wrap and epoxy finish? Can you get away with just using masking tape around the ferrule? My worry is that if you completely finish the ferrule, you may run into problems if you need to move a guide, or you change your mind on thread color. Thanks!
Joe

Just wrap it snugly with thread. No finish is required. I wouldn't rely on masking tape to do the same job.

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If you plan on keeping the wrap after testing, I would apply at least a single coat of thread sealer to the wrap to prevent contamination. It also keeps the wrap nice and snug but far less difficult to remove and clean up versus a single coat of finish.
Patrick