Are you relatively new at the fishing game? Do you want a more flexible gear to learn ? Then you should first learn about the fishing rods that you will be working with. And as absurd as it may sound, a hollow fishing rod is your best option is this case.
There is a weird misconception about a hollow fishing rod that it might not be durable enough. On the contrary, a hollow fishing rod is just as strong and durable. You’d have to use it to know about it better but we’ll try to help you get an idea.
Are fishing rods hollow?
Yes, fishing rods are made with a hollow cylinder like shaft which is usually a flexible material like fiberglass or graphite. There is minimum interaction between the hollow shaft and the fishing line moving from there. So there is no frictional wear or tear between the rod and the line.
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It is very normal for a fishing rod to have a hollow shaft. it is mostly for protection measures. There are some normal fishing rods with a hollow shaft running through it to ensure durability.
The hollow shaft is connected with a handle along with the fishing reel that keeps the line aligned. A smooth lining material coats the inside of the shaft to resist the abrasion due to the movement of the line. The end of it is reinforced with a tip.
Solid vs. hollow fishing rod, which one should you get?
Choosing the rods is up to you and what you want from your fishing rod. There are some characteristics of the each type of the rod and you have to analyze them with the purpose of your getting a rod.
If you are concerned about the stiffness however, then you can go for any of the two. There is a belief that a solid rod is more stiff than the hollow rod. But that is not exactly the case. The stiffness depends on the outer layers of the fishing rods.
A hollow rod can collapse faster than a solid rod. If the inner walls are damaged then it doesn’t take much long for the entire rod to fall apart.
If you wish to go for heavy weight fishing, the expert advice is to get a solid fishing rod as they are more durable and can hold more weight.
If you are new in the fishing game it is best not to go for the big fishes. Try with the small fish in the lakes. For this, use a hollow fishing rod. These fishing rods are easier to handle and work amazing with small fishes.
When do you need a solid rod?
When you are out in the big waters in search of big and heavy fish, keep your solid fishing rod with you. A more firm fishing rod will give you more support to catch and hold on to the catch.
The heavy action of a solid rod gives more grip to the angler to drive the hook in a fish’s mouth. You can attach a strong hook with the line to make things easier for you.
When do you need a hollow rod?
A hollow rod is perfect for beginners and the ones who like to go fishing in the lakes. It is best for the beginners because it has less entanglement issues.
If you are going to fish in a smaller water body where you will only find lightweight fishes, then you should take your trusted hollow rod with you.
What are blanks on a fishing rod?
The blank of a fishing rod refers to the pole of the line. This is usually the graphite of the fishing rod. This part is also referred to as the backbone of the fishing rod.
You can buy a blank rod from anywhere. Most of the suppliers keep them in stock. To choose the right blank you should consider the weight, length, number of action,s and the sections.
How to build a fishing rod from a blank?
It is much easier to build your own fishing rod. It is definitely more cost efficient and affordable. And on top of that, a fishing rod that you build makes it more special.
A few simple steps will get you started on your rod making adventure-
- Gather the necessity items according to your need. You can get a rod kit as well;
- Measure the rod blank and determine the location for the grip real seat and rod guides. Use epoxy glue to hold the grip in place;
- Dry-fit the grip to the blank rod by attaching the real seat. Align the combination with the spline and glue everything in place with epoxy glue;
- Sand the top side of each foot;
- Align the guides to the blank rod. Make sure the guides are straight;
- Wrap the thread and hold the guide to its designated place;
- Use a light coat of epoxy glue on the thread wrap and allow it to cure for at least 24 hours;
- Glue the top with hot glue.
And with that your Rob building adventure is done!
Using these simple steps you can build a fishing rod from a blank. The instructions seem a bit difficult to wrap around your head but it gets easier with a bit of patience.
What are the best materials for a fishing rod?
There are mostly two materials used to make a fishing rod. Graphite and Fiber Glass. These two are popularly used because of their durability and ease of use.
The graphite rod blank is made of carbon and is cheaper. This material is more available in the market. This material is very sensitive and flexible. The graphite is also surprisingly strong under a steady load.
A fiber glass rod is very durable and less brittle. These rods are considerably cheaper as well. These rods are not sensitive enough though. But they are still very much popular.
There is a new type of rod blank which is basically a mix of the graphite and the fiber glass rod. It’s called the composite rod. This rod has a fiber glass rod in its core and a graphite shell. A composite rod is mostly used by professionals.
Are graphite rod blanks better than fiberglass?
It is hard to say which rod blank is better than the other as both the materials have different uses and characteristics. But in general, a graphite rod blank is used more.
A graphite rod blank, also known as the carbon rod blank, is much more sensitive. This makes it easier for the angler to handle the rod and maneuver it accordingly. These rods do not break under a strong and steady load. And is very much durable.
The graphite rods have ultra-sensitive bite detector and have a direct hook setting system.
That being said, a graphite rod can be more brittle than a fiber glass rod. And this rod is very much stiff than any other material.
In spite of these, a graphite rod blank gives more ease when fishing and is a popular choice.
What paint to use on the fishing rod blank?
You can use any kind of water-resistant paint on your fishing rod blank. The options are all at your hand including the choice of color. But do make sure the paint is water-resistant as the fishing rod will be in direct contact with the water.
- You can use spray paints like krylon;
- Make the painting job more fun with an airbrush;
- Use a primer as a base color;
- Aerosol spray paint is also a good option now.
After you apply your preferred color coat spray a coat of clear spray. Let the paint and clear coat dry for about a day or more. Use an epoxy varnish afterwards. Make sure to wear gloves and use powder. Squeeze the epoxy into the rod while moving your hands up and down. This will make the paint water-resistant.
How do you fix a broken fishing rod blank?
If you have managed to somehow snap your fishing rod in to two halves or parts, do not go running off to buy a new one. There are some ways you can fix your fishing rod. Try out some of the trick first-
- Mend the rod with a fiberglass pole and hide the break with an epoxy finish;
- If your guide breaks, you can always remove the broken one and wrap a new one in its place;
- If the rod tips break you can just replace the broken one with a new tip. Heat the tip and remove it with pliers.
There are many ways to fix if you have accidentally broken your fishing rod. Just make sure to use the epoxy glue carefully. Also, try not to damage it more by clogging the ends with too much glue.
A fishing rod is literally the backbone of your fishing gear. A good rod will make your fishing experience more smooth and fun. Try to use a good and hollow fishing rod if you are new to this.
That being said, many professionals prefer a hollow fishing rod when they want a light and calm fishing trip.