Hi rod builders out there. I am interested in learning how to build rods. It seems very interesting. But the problem is that I don't know what to get and how to even start. Is there anywhere that provide lessons or guidance on how to start? I watched alot of online videos, but I find having a teacher is better. Anyone has advice on how I can learn?

I learn from one of my American fren before, all I can tell you
is you have to be very very patient, keep cool and skill is needed.

When finished, the reward is looking at the beautiful rod! wow!

I was in the same Delimma for a long time, read a lot but don't know whether the initial investment will be wasted or not. I talked to many and it seem like it is a secret art,, frankly speaking, few are willing to share.

Finally one fine day, I decided to bite the bullet and after that, there was no turning back.
I have no teacher to guide me, I dont have any books, i learn my basics from internet and website. I did some trial and errors and use a lot of common sense. You will be amaze the amount of material there are on the Internet, matagi and mudhole is 2 website that refer a lot too.

When I encounter difficulties, all I have is my thick skin and humble approach when I talk to those rod builders in the pro-shop. We become friends and when I show them my half build rods, they help to share and comments.
I started about 4 mths back and have completed about 5 rods. I am still a newbie and the skill are nowhere near the professional and expert here. Below are the rod that I have done

1) 1st rod: 6-12 pistol grip Baitcasting rod.
2) 2nd rod: Exori carbon III spinning rod
3) 3rd rod: xPredator PE 1-2 spinning rod
4) 4th rod: JM 3king PE 1.5-4 spinning rod
5) 5th rod: Exori carbon III build into a micro jigging rod. ( yes, I am trying something new) hahahaha have not fish with it yet.

I need to thank Gary and Daniel for their pointers and guidance along the way. you know who you are

The journey for a DIY rod builder in Singapore is not easy, but it is not impossible either. All you need is a lot of passion and patient. If you ask me whether I will build rod for a living? Hell no! Rod building is time consuming and very tedious work. Buying a factory rod is always cheaper and easier.

I have friends who have seen my rod and ask me to build and pay me. My reply have always being the same, I love every rod that I build, it will be too dear for me to pass it over to another guy. However for a very good friend, I promised to build for him free when I am free of course lol......

I wrote this to encourage aspiring rod builders to venture into rod building like I did, step into the unknow, don't expect to be spoon fed and the results can be very rewarding and satisfying.

still learning something new everyday.....

Edmund

Hi Edmund,

You are very right! rod building needs lots of patient and passion for it..very tedious and meticulous as you have to wrap one layer on top of the other..but the reward after completion is wah hhhha ha !!

I kept the rod that I build, yet to touch sea water, it has been 13 years already. I tend to use other rods...recently I service 2 Ugly stick tiger 1987 US model, replace all the wrap, polished/clean the guide, they are excellent rod..money can buy them anymore..now look new again!

My journey has just began, for me a uphill learning curve as patience is not in my character. But I think passion can compensate a bit of this short coming. Also I consider myself lucky to have some one coaching and goading my ass real hard. I am looking to the day I complete it. For some takes a few days. I intent to take it as long as it takes. Hopefully it is not as ugly as my first fly tying.