FAQ's

1. What is the minimum amount of components I must purchase and how much will it cost?

A list of components and materials that the student must purchase are as follows:

• Rod blank
  
• Reel seat
  
• Guide set
  
• Cork grip
  
• Winding check
  
• Tip top
  
• Hook keeper (if applicable)
  
• Thread
  
• Thread wrap glue/finish
  

Cost will depend on the components chosen.

2. What does Front Range Anglers provide aside from the instructor's expertise?

• 5 minute epoxy
• Cork reamers for use in class and available for rent
  
• Thread tensioner available for rent
  
• Finishing rotisserie available for rent
  
• China marker
  
• Masking tape

3. How can I get the rod building class free?

The class will be free to anyone whose purchase for their components exceeds $350.00.

If the purchase price exceeds $450.00, which includes multiple rod blanks and components, the purchaser can attend as many classes as required for the amount of rod blanks purchased.

§ Example: if two complete rod blanks and components are purchased at the same time and the cost exceeds $450.00, then the purchaser and an associate can attend one class free, or the purchaser can attend 2 classes free. (Note: This only applies if all materials are purchased at Front Range Anglers.)

4. How do I choose my rod blank and components?

You will choose your blank primarily depending on what kind of fishing you will be doing. A shop employee will help you choose the rod best suited for that purpose.

A shop employee will generally help you select the optimal components for the rod you aim to build. Occasionally the instructor will help with your selection if prearrangements are made. Picking your components is fun and tailored specifically for you, by you.

5. What if I make a mistake? Will I ruin the rod?

• Most cosmetic mistakes are easily fixed.
  
• The class is detailed and covers all the basic rod building aspects.
  
• The instructor will monitor your work and give advice and/or direction when applicable.

6. Why build a fly rod? Are there any advantages to building your own rod?

Customization: Rod building allows you to customize your fly rod. Customizing means you ultimately will decide the following:

1. Rod blank brand, style and line size
   
2. Cork handle
   
3. Reel seat, Wood insert (if applicable)
   
4. Guides (sizes and color)
   
5. Thread color and the decorative wrapping style you prefer
   

Cost: Generally, the more expensive a factory-built fly rod is, the more you can save by building your own version of the same.

Self-Satisfaction: The reward of fishing and landing fish on the fly rod you built.

Comfort: By building your own fly rod you get to choose the components that fit your personality and are the most appealing to you.

7. Do I need to attend both class sessions?

Attendance is not mandatory, but if you choose to miss a class you will not be taking advantage of the following:

o The first session - the instructor will show you how to:

• Attach the reel seat
  
• Ream and attach the grip
  
• Wrap the 1st stripping guide and show you how to wrap a snake guide.
  

You will then take your rod home to finish wrapping all the rest of the guides.

o The second session - the instructor will:

• Appraise your thread wraps.
  
• Show you how to finish the thread wraps with epoxy or other finishes.
  
• Provide you with rotisseries and rod wrappers for rent at a minimal cost.

8. Are there any disadvantages to building your own fly rod?

• There are no disadvantages. Rod building does take some time on your first fly rod. It is well worth the time. As you build more rods your speed will improve. The rod is still guaranteed by the manufacturer.
  
• PLEASE note that if you send a broken rod to the manufacturer you will receive a blank in return and there will normally be a shipping charge.

9. I like the idea of having a customized fly rod, but rod building isn't for me, are there other options?

Absolutely, Daniel Smith builds custom fly rods professionally. Please ask for a copy of Reality Rods by Daniel Smith. This will include pricing and a menu of options.