First post, thank you in advance for your help. I have read a few differing opinions on this subject so I thought I'd consult experts. Is there an advantage to glassing the entire rod or just the wraps? Not sure if glassing is the correct term or is it varnishing?

Thread finish is generally just applied to wraps, decals, inscriptions, etc. - the blank itself does not need it and the rod would become heavier slowing its recovery if finish is applied to other areas.

Just the wraps - never entire rod
Herb

Christopher,
If you want a weighty wall hanging rod, then by all means glass the entire rod.

But, if you want to have a nice light perfect rod for fishing, then add epoxy finish only to the thread wraps on the butt of the rod, thread wraps for the guides and if there is a thread wrap for the tip. Otherwise, leave the rest of the blank from any extra finish.

Thanks!

The only thing that you might want to do if the rod doesn't have a finish on it is to apply some permagloss prior to adding the components. If it is a brand new rod blank then chances are you don't want to do that either.

Sanded finish is best for sensitivity. The more coatings and crap you put on a rod only slows it down and makes it less sensitive. Only coat the wraps. The best rod blanks are not coated and the ones that are would be better if not coated or had a sanded finish. If you want a pretty rod then paint and coat till your heart is content but don't expect it to enhance performance. The only time I can see a coating help is on a trolling offshore or tuna rod that is going to get the heck torqued out of it and a little extra is not going to hurt, no sensitivity needed.