I just purchased a kit from Cabela's which had "complete rod building instructions" with it, they leave a lot of holes for a beginner, any ideas where I can get some really good printed instructions?
Thanks, Fred

Fred

"Rod Building Guide" by Tom Kirkman. Available in a number of the links on the left. A great book for beginners. Concise, clear, and efficiently written.

Bill Doherty

Bill is giveing you some good advise. You my also try Clemens Tackle which is located on your left. and look for a book by Dale Clemens called fiberglas rod building. You can use all of the information provided and use it to build a grafite rod.
Good luck Bob

Fred,
As mentioned, you don't want to be without the books especially well illustrated and current is Kirkman's book but also there are a couple others like the small book from Flex Coat called "Step by Step Rodbuilding". It's a good basic primer. A subscription to RodMaker as you get going will provide you with the best resource available in on- going print. This site you're on will certainly provide you with answers to your questions. A few videos are available, including the ones by Artie Hebert are well worth the money and give you visual information. The vendors links on this board, besides providing you with quality product and often good deals I bet are willing to help you along as well. We also have available the books, videos and catalog for your consideration.
The step you've taken to inquire on this board means you're already well on your way.

Rich
Richard's Rod & Reel

Books are invaluable, but seeing does alot too. I have never had the luxury of seeing someone else build a rod. Would think it would teach alot. I have built for 7 years, learned everything by trial and error and books. You have a very distinct advantage. THIS BOARD. Search the archives, much info here is not in the books, if you can' t find it in the archives, ASK!! The compilation of builders on this board provide a knowledge base that is incomparable to any book,video etc... Also, subscribe to Rodmaker magazine.

My only complaint about the flex-coat book is that it tells you that the spine is opposite of what most people ,especially on this board, generally consider it to be. This can be very confusing for a beginer trying to use multiple resources, as it was to me. Otherwise it is a good source for quick reference. I have also paged through Tom's book, and it looks very good, but I haven't gotten a copy to read cover to cover yet. Well, there's my book report of the day! ---jeff

I Brike THE Handle ON MY ROD. can I BUY THE Handle and CORK TO Repair IT THANK YOU.