"I need some info on airlines and rod tubes. A friend is going to bring some rod blanks back for me in a narrow rod tube, he also has a check in bag and a bag of golf clubs. Is the airline going to charge extra for this 3rd little light piece? Any knowledge of this would be appreciated."

Chris...I have found that each airline have somewhat difffferent policies, and it also depends if you have a frequent flyer status.

My suggestion to your friend would be to call the customer service department of the airline he is flying and ask them what their policies are......but generally speaking you are allowed to check 2 bags plus a rod case or other sporting item (such as a pair of skis or rod case).

I always carry my reels in my carry-on bag. I figure if they lose my rods, I'd be able to either buy some cheap ones to get me by, or scronge them at camp, but I'd want to use my own reels. However, I have checked rod cases dozens of times and they have never lost or misplaced them.

I had an interesting incident happen at the Winnepeg Airport, while returning to the U.S. just this spring. Even though I was on the same airline returning home that I arrived at, they told me that I was only allowd 2 pieces, and my rod case counted as one. I told them that I had 2 bags plus a rod case when I arrived on their airline, and wanted to return with the same number. There was a long hassle with 2 supervisors, while the line behind me continued to grow. They offered to take the case with a surcharge of $75.00. Finally they let me go with no fee....I think just to get rid of me. My friend was carrying some of his favorite Northern lures, and they told him that since they had hooks, they could be used as a weapon, and insisted he check them in. That also put him over the 2+1 case limit.

Hope this helps...enjoy the trip....

If you run the risk of having to check it in, & pay a premiuim, why not just ship it, insured & you'll have it before he arrives. That's what I do when I go on a trip. Mail it in advance & save the hassles.

I just returned from a trip to Hawaii with my fly rod. I checked my clothes and carried my reel bag and fly rod tube (48") right on the plane as carry-ons. Most planes have a closet right as you board for the crews carry-ons. Just ask one of the attendants to put it in there for you and your all set. I have never had a problem, even on a small comuter jet and I fly with my rods alot. Just bring it on. Don't ask, just do it.