Learn how to build your own rod

In this part of the video tutorial entitled, we explain the importance of identifying the nerve or spine of a blank, which determines its natural working direction. The blank, which can have varying thicknesses due to its shape, will tend to work in a specific way when subjected to bending. To find the spine, you need to manipulate the blank with your hands to identify the side that locks and resists movement. It is emphasized that every blank has two spines, and the one that takes the upper hand is the one to look for. Once the spine has been identified, the Guides can be installed accordingly to ensure optimum performance. This tutorial also applies to multi-section rods, focusing on the working section with the greatest flexibility.

In this video tutorial, “Build the handle”, we'll guide you through the process of assembling the handle elements and explain the importance of having a handle that fits your fishing program. This tutorial is valid for different types of fishing rods, including spinning, casting, fly fishing and carp fishing rods. The tools used in this tutorial are shown below.

We'll show you how to place your Guides on your blank. We'll determine the location of the Guides according to a Spacing Chart produced by Fuji. In the following example, we choose a KR Spinning kit for a 6'6 rod and a Guide with an identical finish. The Guide is fixed with hot-melt glue. Next, we mark the Guide locations with a white pencil, and place the Guides on the blank using masking tape. The tools used in this tutorial are shown below.

In this video, we demonstrate different techniques for creating Wrapping using a Wrapping bench, wire, razor blade, lighter and masking tape. The tutorial covers making a simple Wrapping and aligning the Guides. For those looking for a strong connection, we suggest a technique with a sub-ligature. We advise beginners to start with the simplest version of Wrapping before embarking on wrappings.

In this YouTube video entitled “Varnishing Wrappings”, we discuss the supplies and tools needed to varnish rod wrappings. We use a lathe stand, brushes, isopropanol, an alcohol lamp and an epoxy varnish, in this case Flex Coat. We stress the importance of cleaning and realigning the Wrapping before Varnishing, as well as maintaining constant temperature and humidity and mixing the varnish carefully. Application consists of brushing the varnish, starting at the center of the ligature and progressing to the edges, then repeating on the other side. We also mention the importance of maintaining a steady hand when using a varnishing machine, and of using an alcohol lamp to eliminate air bubbles.