The Traveling Fisherman
by Steve Layton & Gary Finch, Finch Enterprises

The moment I mention the term “travel rod” I’m sure it conjures images of vintage television commercials sporting fishing kits for only $19.99! With the foldable fishing rod, we were promised a tackle box filled with those “sure-fire” lures!

That’s not exactly the travel rod I’m describing. Flyrodders and spincasters have a common problem when it comes to traveling with a full-length, one-piece rod, and there’s not much of a benefit gained with a two-piece rod. A two-piece, nine-foot, fly rod, protected by its travel tube, is still going to measure over 4 ½ feet in length. There is no pleasure in store for the traveling fisherman who plans to carry this item through an airport or even in a car. Chances are, before the trip is over, luggage will be piled on top of the tube, resulting in either a broken tip or rod section. Don’t ask how I know, the memory is still too painful.

Many of the quality manufacturers of today’s custom rods typically have their signature blanks also available in 3 and 4 piece models as well. These are not bargain basement rods. Fishermen demand that their feel and performance on the water have to closely match what is found in high quality one, or two-piece, blanks.

Fly rods and spincast rods have gone through many transformations since fishing began. The early split cane or bamboo models were light and easy to cast but were both delicate and expensive. Bamboo gave way to the strength and durability of solid fiberglass but it was quickly found to be too heavy for all-day casting. Hollow core fiberglass models of the 1960’s held the position until graphite was introduced. 

The introduction of graphite as a rod building material changed everything for fishermen. The use of this modern material in rod building created the benefits of having less weight and increased “feel”. These qualities are maintained even in multi-segment travel rods.

Unlike the old fiberglass rods of the 1960’s, graphite rods are able to retain their strength and the transmission of vibration at a fraction of the weight. Spinning, or bait casting anglers, get a strong, quick-action rod without having to endure a blank with the casting weight of a garden shovel. Flyrodders also get the added benefit of using smaller diameter rod blanks. A small diameter blank reduces wind drag during casting. Wind drag may not sound very important until you spend an entire day making hundreds of casts during a bass tournament or experience the job of casting a nine-foot fly rod into a constant headwind. The fisherman, who uses equipment that prevents fatigue, is also physically able to make more casts and possibly catch more fish.

Like most outdoor equipment, it pays to purchase the best you can afford. If properly cared for, these rods will last a lifetime. Most of the quality rods will be found through independent rod builders, specialty fishing catalogs, or a full service sporting store. Through a custom match, the salesperson will be able to fit the rod to your specific weight, guide, and grip requirements. Simply tell them the type of fishing you plan to be doing and they will be able to narrow the selection to within three rod choices.

These multi-section rods aren’t going to be bargains, so make sure you buy one with a warranty. Storing it in a smaller package won’t prevent the accidents that can occur while it’s in the boat or at the dock, so make sure you’re covered with a rod warranty against accidental damage.

The multi-piece rods I own will never replace my one and two piece models. Those extra joints do require more attention in order to assure proper alignment and fit. But, it sure is nice to carry an entire fly-fishing package consisting of a rod, reel, spare spools, flies, leaders, and pliers in a combined bundle that isn’t much larger than tennis racquet. On previous trips to the lake or beach, where I might have opted to leave cumbersome fishing equipment behind, now I have it with me constantly. 

Remember to watch Gary Finch Outdoors on WTVY - Channel 4 every Sunday morning at 6:30 a.m.
www.garyfinchoutdoors.com