I'm wrapping a 7' 3-4 wt. glass fly rod, and for the first time I'm using a cork insert for the reel seat. Although I once owned a Sage LL 7' 4 wt with a cork insert, I can't remember if the insert had a "finish" or was just "unfinished" cork. Any advice on if it needs to be finished, and what finishes could be used, if needed, will be much appreciated.
Thanks, Jack

Unfinished.

Jack,
I prefer the natural, unfinished look rather than a clear coat of PG or thread finish. However, I have found U40 Cork Seal to leave the cork natural-looking while affording a bit of protection against chipping, dirt and grime contamination = easy cleaning and generally prolongs the life of the cork; I use it on all my cork. Birchwood Casey’s Tru Oil is another option but is difficult to get here in California (as so many other products).

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

Thanks Mark: I didn't know U40 had the cork dressing product. I'll give it a try.

By the way, I'm in San Diego, so also enjoying the diminishing supply of needed products. I was able to get DNA thru Amazon shortly after the ban. I don't know if it's still available.
Thanks again, Jack

Jack,
Nice to know there is another member out here on the Left Coast; we are in the minority. I’m in Temple City, 20 minutes east of downtown LALA Land. I always go out of San Diego when I get serious about my saltwater fishing.
While I suppose, ultimately for the environment, California should be commended for leading the way in banning some really nasty chemicals like Trichloroethylene and Zylene, in many cases I feel they have gone too far; really, DNA? Additionally, while they ban certain products for sale to the general public, big business can still purchase and use it = go figure / what’s the point! I wonder how long it will be before they outlaw water?
Let me know how your 7’ 3-4 wt glass fly rod handles tuna and Dorado.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

Unfinished

I too like Mark use U40 Cork Seal on the inserts for the reasons he mentions.

Yeah, as another Califlaky resident (Bay Area) banning DNA is ridiculous! You can still get it labeled as alcohol stove fuel at places like REI. I have friends from Nevada bring it in for me as it is still available there and in Arizona.