IceShanty.com's Ice Fishing Community
Ice Fishing Tips -Check your local regulations! => Equipment => Topic started by: Stinkybaits on Dec 21, 2014, 11:09 PM
-
OK great topic Custom rods vs China rods. Some members like Hawkeye truly believe custom is all hype and just assembled China stuff just differ colors of thread or a couple lengths. I'm not saying that there arnt any bogus custom shops but there's some waaay better custom shops than there are big companies assembling rods in China. So let's hear from everyone and make it a great debate. In the end I'm for whatever makes people happy and gives them enjoyment!
-
Heres Hawkeyefish view from the Tickle Stick thread....
The fact that you think any of those "custom" builders you listed, except Thorne Bros isn't "China crap" is hilarious. Where do you think their blanks come from? Only TB utilizes a blank from the states, that's fact.
And this "custom" crap you vomit about...it's so custom you get to select a length they have available, in an action the have available, with a handle they have available..and ohhhh, I get to choose my thread wrap color! Unless I'm at a store or show, then it's so custom I got to pick it off a rack, next to the HT and Meatstick offerings.
Please. You're a tickle me fool for thinking companies like Tuned up terds aren't buying blanks out of china, paying someone $.75 cents a guide to wrap it and playing you for a fool for 'Mercian made, yeehaw.
Custom isn't a thread wrap.
And there are plenty of quality sticks made by good companies, don't be such a pretend elitist. And I doubt every angler not using a fake "custom," is a sellout. That would probably include 99% of this board and the general ice angling population. Especially, when you apparently fish the same blanks, at quadruple the charge.
-
:icefish:
-
Having beautiful, light weight, sensitive, functional pieces of art make me happy:)
-
Well, I know I have a custom Ugly Stick because it is Uglier than all the others! >:D
-
Missoula, where do you get your rods?
-
I've got a buddy that has made myself a couple of custom rods! They are awesome... I was able to select everything, but left a lot to his judgement because he has made quite a few and knows what works. I have one with a shorter handle, one that is a bit longer overall, chose my wrap colors, and so on. That said I have also sold a few for him,.. the people that bought those were able to choose from the selection I had. No less custom I feel in workmanship but maybe not ecxactly what they would have created... Basically what I'm saying is he uses his best judgement to create the best rods he can at a certain price-point! Where do his guides come from? :callcops: I'm not sure.... Is that the same as what Hawkeyefish is saying? Dunno? I think i just understand it differently and am not arguing a different point , just less jaded. Whew! All that said I do like the american company, china made frabill rod/reel combo of mine a lot and so it goes... :tipup: :icefish:
-
Wyo, Brickers custom rods:)
-
Nothing makes me happier than hearing someone paid into the hundreds for a "custom" ice Rod. Keep it up boys, you're good for the economy.
Buy or build what you like. Pad your ego with what makes you feel good.
The rod don't make the fisherman!
Rg
-
Not really sold on the whole Custom Rod trend. Are they better than Clam, Frabill, HT? Sure. Are they better than St.Croix, Fenwick, or even Berkley, Shakespeare(ugly stick)? Ehh, doubt it. I guess if ya got the bucks and want an over priced stick of fiberglass or graphite for your arsenal then more power to ya. Anyone who thinks a custom rod will increase their catch rate is just plain silly. It is more of a bragging item than anything else IMO. Nice rods don't get me wrong, but waaaay to expensive. Been doin it for too many years without em'.
-
I build my own rods. I select every component, nothing is a kit. Doesnt get much more custom than that. The best part is the quality and the components are 5x better and half the price than what u get from a rod shop.
Here is a rod I built specifically for pistol gripping my Teardrop Reel. The split grip reel seat allow me to rest my index finger directly on the rod blank. Any vibration in the blank and I can feel it. Cost about $25 to make.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg121/willcooper4/Open%20Water%20Fish%20Pics/Rod/20140913_164159_zps4f98de91.jpg)
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg121/willcooper4/Open%20Water%20Fish%20Pics/Rod/20140913_164034_zps1733de19.jpg)
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg121/willcooper4/Open%20Water%20Fish%20Pics/Rod/20140913_163924_zpsea2564f7.jpg)
-
I'd like to have a custom rod to match with my BB 6061.
But I do have some good older berkley Dave Genz Signature rods that I really like so until they break I'll keep using them.
I am sure there are several custom rod makers using american made blanks. If Thorne Brothers can get them others can and will too.
There are also different levels of custom. For instance if you buy a thorne brothers sweetheart rod that is of their stock design it isn't as custom as one that you choose everything on.
When I make my custom fishing jigs I source as many american made parts as possible. The parts aren't all available in an American made product so sometimes I have to deal with what's available.
-
Building your own rods and catching fish on them is what its all about. ;D
-
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg121/willcooper4/Open%20Water%20Fish%20Pics/Rod/20140913_164034_zps1733de19.jpg)
Nice Toes! :thumbsup:
-
So a good quality custom rod cost how much compared to a good China assembled rod? Last ice show I was at I saw some nice custom rods that were less in price than some of the St Croix, Genz, Mitchels ect.... There was also a guy specializing in long rods 50" plus nice moderate bend. I haven't seen any long rods in the commercial industry like that except for soft water fishing. I suppose technically you could put a spring on one of those with some success. It can be argued that the majority of parts are China made. It's what they do with those pieces that separates custom from China. If I can support a local custom guy for the same money as a Genz series rod that's sold out of a local shop. I'm supporting the local guy and the local shop at the sa.e time. If I can buy a tungsten China jig like fiska vs a custom painted jig from a guy like Brantner that has a far better product imo of course I'm supporting that. There's even custom guys out there that take it to a whole different level. Hand sanded blanks custom tuned to the different jigs for finesse fishing. Removable hook retrievers in the back of the rod of course a rod like that is going to be expensive there's a bit of time involved doing all of that. Custom length to fit my exact height when I'm standing outside. I could care less about how cool it looks although I've seen some nice looking rods with crazy thread work and killer airbrush paintjobs. Sure it's the fishermen too like RG mentioned but there's just so many more options with the custom side that is not available from the big boy commercial China assembled rods. I guess I fail to see the quadruple the price theory when comparing apples to apples in custom.vs China unless I look at Cherrywood or HT Blues. Sure at that point nothing will compete with that and they get the job done. Tickle Stick however for the same money or slightly higher I can buy a way better quality built rod from a local custom shop that cares about the spine of the blank and guides that are lined up. Local builders care and take pride in what they build. China could care less about the product they built and why would they?
-
Hey Baitbucket, where,d you get that handle from? i,ve built open water rods before ,n, gonna try ice rods now. also , would that fit a full size blank(7 ft.)? thanks. wire
-
Buying any old rod and reel and then going out and catching fish with it is a great feeling. Most of the devices people use today are gimmicks. People will make anything if they think there is enough people that will fall for it. Take the Hummer as an example. Really people bought into that huge piece of garbage. Oh look how big my car is! It gets me 5 MPG and wears out tires faster then your car. The brakes are great the first 5 trips.
I have 2 Custom rods my friend talked me into getting years ago. They sit in my shed all the time. But hey they say Lefty on them. One is a Snagging Rod and the other is an Ice fishing rod.
-
I love the guys who tell me the rods and equipment doesn't matter while I fish circles around them, catch bigger, more, and more consistently. If you dont think better equipment improves your catch rate your just plain ignorant! I have a fair share of customs and some I prefer over others but if you can present your lure more precise then it makes a difference in your catch. Having a longer rodwith back bone makes a huge difference in landing bigger fish that have bigger head shakes. Custom rods should make a difference and if they don't that says more about the fisherman than rod that's all I'm saying.
-
I catch plenty of fish using my china factory equipment. Never been out fished by someone 'cause they were using a "custom" rod. Isn't a rod out there that is going to make the fish bite.
Its way more important to have the right action of rod and know how to use it.
even in open water bass tournies, I always laughed to myself when I would fish against guys using GLoomis tackle, big fast bass boats....here I am using cheap bass pro rods in my aluminum boat and cashing checks. ;D
-
To each there own, but what really matter is having a rod your comfortable with and confident in regardless of price.
-
To each there own, but what really matter is having a rod your comfortable with and confident in regardless of price.
x2. That is the bottom line. I've started making my own rods this year and having a blast doing it. Where the parts come from, I don't give a darn. If I like the outcome and how they fish its priceless to me.
-
To each there own, but what really matter is having a rod your comfortable with and confident in regardless of price.
and that is THE TRUTH :flex:
-
To each their own is about it. I was the only one catching fish the other day out of about 18 people. I only caught 3 but that was 3 more then the other 18 people. Cheap rod and reel using good lures and technique is all it takes. No technique and no fish. regardless of rod and reel.
When family and friends talk about fishing they always talk about how many fish I catch compared to them. Technique Technique Technique. If one doesn't work try another and another until you find the right one.
-
If I can buy something assembled in the USA I will buy that before I buy anything from China. Support our country.
-
OK guy's do you know where all the Custom Rod builders get their blanks? You don't think they make them by hand do you?
-
Technique Technique Technique. If one doesn't work try another and another until you find the right one.
Rod, line, and reel can all have drastic affects on technique.
-
Rod, line, and reel can all have drastic affects on technique.
I totally disagree. If we both use a one to 4 inch twitch on the jig you think your rod reel and line is going to do something special compared to mine? No on this planet it isn't.
-
I totally disagree. If we both use a one to 4 inch twitch on the jig you think your rod reel and line is going to do something special compared to mine? No on this planet it isn't.
Line and rod will have an effect to some degree. Stiffer rod and a line with less stretch will respond faster. Limp rod slower response time making a more sluggish response, obviously a different action will occur.
-
I prefer the China rods because it doesn't hurt as bad when I take the Dremel cuttoff blade and cut the tip off 3/4-1 inch in front of the last whipped on eye. I check a new rod candidates action at that eye and could care less if it's glass or carbon. For me the rod holds the reel, the proper weight European style strike indicator which I can now pop off and replace quickly, is short enough that I can produce the correct jigging technique and buffers the light line before the reel spool starts to spin. Matching the spring bobber to the weight of the jig and presenting the jig properly are my two biggest concerns once i pick up the rod.
-
Line and rod will have an effect to some degree. Stiffer rod and a line with less stretch will respond faster. Limp rod slower response time making a more sluggish response, obviously a different action will occur.
Now were talking Stiffer rod vs what a limper rod. now it isn't apples to apples it is Apples to oranges. Common,both have a light weight rod and 4 pound test. There isn't going to be anything different under the ice. 1-4" twitch will not make any line stretch more than the other. Maybe if your talking about a 1/2 pound jig/lure.
-
I totally disagree. If we both use a one to 4 inch twitch on the jig you think your rod reel and line is going to do something special compared to mine? No on this planet it isn't.
Ahh I see. So your saying exact same reel, line and rods. Just one rod is china the other is custom? You may see a slight difference but not alot.
Buts all those slight differences add up... This is also assuming you can get the same exact action out of a china rod as you can a custom.
-
This will be my last post about this subject. No one dresses me and no one can tell me to go out and buy a custom rod. Reason, I follow no one. Just because you were told once that a custom rod was the way to go and you bought into it that is OK. I just don't buy into anything that makes someone else a lot of money. I have no problems catching fish and never have. I see more people not catching fish when I am and it would make some people feel guilty, Not me.
-
Similar threads devolve into " I can catch as many fish with my willow switch and kite string". Having used both poorly manufactured China sticks and recently a true custom (thanks Ryno!); I contend that better blanks and components DO result in better sensitivity and increased catch rates. Never been interested in competing with other anglers and could care less about impressing anyone with pricey gear.
It's ironic that those who brag the most are the guys using broken rod tips or $10 buggy whips. I prefer fast action rods that load the first 1/4 while the rest is backbone. Cant stand softer actions which leave the rod doubled over up to the handle; leaving little control over better fish. I had to up my jig size to 5mm with my Fenwick production rod before I could feel the damn thing. Comparing that to my old Thorne Bros. Sweetheart; its just no contest as to the superior product. I'd rather support custom builders in the U.S., foreign made components or not.
It's all about budget constraints and priorities in life. It's taken 20 years to amass my gear. I could never afford a LX-9, had to settle for a x67 sonar (priceless to me). To some, sonar's still "cheating"...lol
-
I started building my own rods as a hobby.
I also found that any of the off the shelf rods were not beefy enough for the fishing I do up here.
I ended up building some true customs that are built from cut down solid glass saltwater blanks. They worked better than I could have hoped for. They have caught lakers and pike in the high 20's with no problems at all.
Currently building another one for a fellow ice fisher in Alaska.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/1003/DRIFTER_016/Ice%20Fishing/East%20Arm%202010/P3300046.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/DRIFTER_016/media/Ice%20Fishing/East%20Arm%202010/P3300046.jpg.html)
-
I think it's six or one/half dozen of the other. If I can't find a rod I like off the shelf, I would certainly buy a custom. So far that's not been the case though The test I put an ice rod through aside from the standard flex test is to put the tip of the rod on my adams apple while holding the rod close to the handle & speaking. If I can feel the vibration of my voice in the blank it's sensitive enough for what I need :icefish:
-
Great posts guys! Glad the customs are around as you can get more choices and it boils down to personal preferences. Fish with what makes you happy and budget restraints also play a factor too as mentioned above . Strike indicators can turn a cheap rod into a killer rod pretty quick. Line watchers don't need much in the way of a rod either. Where I am were mainly chasing gills and crappie. Gills preferably for table fare and crappie for the fun. I find that many using micro plastics and no bait ice flies tend to prefer the softest glass noodle they can find or a long rod neither are available by the big boys. Plus the softer the better for my personal preference.
-
I have both custom and off the rack.I try to buy better quality rods if I like what's on the rack at the time I get it. I'll fish it if I don't like it I pass it down to one of the kids I don't care who makes it really if is what I'm looking for. Just out of curiosity what American reels and line going on the custom rods?
-
I use off the shelf but would love to build my own "custom" for the pride of doing so. I haven't had a problem finding an off the shelf rod less than $40 that will get the job done for the styles of fishing I do.
Ugly stik gx2 light action - panfish noodle rod - floppy tip, super sensitive and good backbone. $20 and gets the job done w/o a spring bobber ('gills), used for <20FOW jigging
no8 Snitch - Slower tip action than the gx2 but more backbone - $35 (crappie and perch) used for spoons, raps, and deep water
Frabill polar fire light action - $cheap - used for jawjacker/deadsticking
A lot of ice fishing equipment is hype, or overpriced Chinese garbage. I tend to keep it simple but whatever $1## rod or reel floats your boat, more power to ya
-
I'm curious, which U.S. manufacturer is providing Thorne Bros. their ice blanks?
-
I'm curious, which U.S. manufacturer is providing Thorne Bros. their ice blanks?
::) they'd have to show me the US factory for me to believe it.
Rg
-
I am not aware of any ice blanks that are made in the USA. Not saying there isn't, but in my searches I have come up empty handed. If anyone knows of a place that makes them, I will gladly buy my blanks from them.
Different strokes for different folks. Some people like high end gear, some like tried and true vintage gear. Does a high priced custom stick catch more fish? Depends on the person using it I guess. Ever see the national fish team fist? They use marmish rods and I gurantee they will outfishing nearly anyone on this website. So, which rod is best, is in the eye of the beholder.
For the record, I build my own rods because I couldn't buy what I was looking for off the shelf. I can build any TUCR, DH, or Thorne Bros rod for $30 or less. So can anyone here, just buy the parts and build the rod. Plenty of suppliers online. It's really easy. My buddy wanted to go laker fishing with me one day, but didn't have a rod. I assembled everything in an hour and had it on the dryer for a day and it was ready for our trip.
If anyone is interested, I can help them get started. Just to warn you, it gets addictive!
-
I've been building for 30 years. Ice rods are a waste of my time. My Yad rods are more than adequate for the number of outings I can manage each season. I have 20 or so. Love them!
All my fly rods and open water rods are RG Custom rods ::) they're worth a fortune to me. Each one a work of art ( although Art never touched them).
But luckily, we live in America where any Chinese product can be turned into "Custom, Made In USA"
Rg
-
I am not aware of any ice blanks that are made in the USA. Not saying there isn't, but in my searches I have come up empty handed. If anyone knows of a place that makes them, I will gladly buy my blanks from them.
Different strokes for different folks. Some people like high end gear, some like tried and true vintage gear. Does a high priced custom stick catch more fish? Depends on the person using it I guess. Ever see the national fish team fist? They use marmish rods and I gurantee they will outfishing nearly anyone on this website. So, which rod is best, is in the eye of the beholder.
For the record, I build my own rods because I couldn't buy what I was looking for off the shelf. I can build any TUCR, DH, or Thorne Bros rod for $30 or less. So can anyone here, just buy the parts and build the rod. Plenty of suppliers online. It's really easy. My buddy wanted to go laker fishing with me one day, but didn't have a rod. I assembled everything in an hour and had it on the dryer for a day and it was ready for our trip.
If anyone is interested, I can help them get started. Just to warn you, it gets addictive!
Sweet! So your technically a custom rod builder and made one for your own needs. That's how most get started actually. You can even get better pricing with a wholesalers license probably saving another 15 bucks. So if you were to sell around 50 be a sweet setup and I'm guessing better than the one assembled in China because you cared about it? Guides were probably straight and spline of the blank spot on. I don't see the huge difference in money on buying a custom vs China assembled. Why not give it to the custom guy and keep it in America? Unless your getting some crazy tricked out rod that took the builder hours to make I just don't see the quadruple the price issue. I've definetely have never seen it at the shows comparing apples to apples.
-
Thanks for the shout out, Stinky!
Also, fun to see a most of these guys really know their stuff. Solid topic choice.
Now, that we all know "custom" is China/Korea made and US assembled, I pose this question.
As you put down the China made big boys like 13, Clam, etc...what happens when one of them decides to assemble here in the US? Would they be seen as "custom?" They'd have placement everywhere, so would that kill the niche feeling of a small time guy, even though it's "made in America."
Also, I commend those guys for taking chances on product like the Black Ops, Tickle Stick, original meat stick. Without that, the industry doesn't change.
-
::) they'd have to show me the US factory for me to believe it.
Rg
Iv'e spent quite a bit of time with the owner of TB, hes an honest a man as they come..... Blanks made in California. Same company makes a lot of stuff for NASA....
This whole thread cracks me up... I am baffled by the worry people have about other people and what makes them happy...
I have literally fished with or handled about every rod made in the last 30 years and made dozens and dozens of my own. There is definatly something to be said for using quality components along with quality craftsmanship. That being said I will outfish most of my buddies 9/10 times with a 9$ ice blue with a 5$ schooly reel. Experience and that fish sense trumps everything. ;D
-
I am not aware of any ice blanks that are made in the USA. Not saying there isn't, but in my searches I have come up empty handed. If anyone knows of a place that makes them, I will gladly buy my blanks from them.
Different strokes for different folks. Some people like high end gear, some like tried and true vintage gear. Does a high priced custom stick catch more fish? Depends on the person using it I guess. Ever see the national fish team fist? They use marmish rods and I gurantee they will outfishing nearly anyone on this website. So, which rod is best, is in the eye of the beholder.
For the record, I build my own rods because I couldn't buy what I was looking for off the shelf. I can build any TUCR, DH, or Thorne Bros rod for $30 or less. So can anyone here, just buy the parts and build the rod. Plenty of suppliers online. It's really easy. My buddy wanted to go laker fishing with me one day, but didn't have a rod. I assembled everything in an hour and had it on the dryer for a day and it was ready for our trip.
If anyone is interested, I can help them get started. Just to warn you, it gets addictive!
Thanks for the info rayne. Fun to see other fellow rod builders. Im curious on your comment of building any of the big 3 for under 30 bucks. TUCR tells me they dont sell their blanks and nearly all TB blanks are over 30 bucks. DH on the other hand does sell his reasonable (20-25). Have you been able to get them cheaper? Curious to know. I have built on TB, DH, and MHX from mudhole. All are great blanks. I am no pro by any means and new and at rod building but i honestly cant see a ton of diff between mhx and TB quiverstick. That said, the noodle comparison is not close. TB is much better imo. As mentioned just a rookie and trying to learn more to feed all my buddies addiction after i have put a DH noodle in their hands. Love that blank for crappie!! Thanks again for your info man.
-
::) they'd have to show me the US factory for me to believe it.
Rg
http://www.unitedcomposites-usa.com/about.html
https://goodwinds.com
There's a couple for you RG ;D. The custom guy I use sands his own down to whatever my needs are and many other true custom guys can do the same.
-
Thanks for the shout out, Stinky!
Also, fun to see a most of these guys really know their stuff. Solid topic choice.
Now, that we all know "custom" is China/Korea made and US assembled, I pose this question.
As you put down the China made big boys like 13, Clam, etc...what happens when one of them decides to assemble here in the US? Would they be seen as "custom?" They'd have placement everywhere, so would that kill the niche feeling of a small time guy, even though it's "made in America."
Also, I commend those guys for taking chances on product like the Black Ops, Tickle Stick, original meat stick. Without that, the industry doesn't change.
No they wouldn't be custom unless it's built to my specs. Here's an example. I order a Corvette from GM and they can only do so much. But I've got the money and want a killer crazy ride so I call a company like Lingenfelter and they take the Corvette to a whole different level of craziness. Obviously GM can't do it nor do they want to not everyone wants one. However is the Lingenfelter Corvette any better than GM? Oh ya it SMOKES the original GM product because it's all tricked out. Lingenfelter was able to create something to my specs where GM can't because they are about mass production not custom. Can both get you speeding tickets? Sure. But is one waaaay faster and performs so much better than the other? OH YA Lingenfelter creation would crush stock. It's not so much location as it is to building to a customers specs and not to the limited choices a manufacturing company has to offer. Here's my panfish setup. All my blanks are matched up to my lure of choice. If I'm using tungsten and micro plastics I'll use a heavier blank than when I'm using an ice fly. All my blanks are interchangeable with my handles. One handle is a palm handle another is for penciling. I don't have 10 separate rods with 10 separate reels it weights me down everything is compact and ready to roll. There isn't a manufacturer around that can meet my personal needs and there never will be they are selling numbers not individual one time pieces. They don't want to hand sand my blanks to my specs. My custom guy will. Does my setup cost some bucks? Sure it does but if I were to buy 10 Genz combos for instance and throw a 15 dollar reel on each one I've spent 600 plus bucks at that point so I'm pretty much spending the same. Instead I've got a killer Stradic and a BB 6061 a handful of blanks and can balance the side weight of an inline reel by rotating the blank in the handle. I just can't get that from any manufacturer. I also through a long rod to the right in the case another item I can't get made from the big boys. This setup it custom to the extreme but it's a great example of what manufacturers won't do that a custom guy can do. Well some custom guys. People assembling rod kits from Mudhole are rod builders not custom builders. True custom builders design their own blanks. Sure they don't make their own blanks but they hand sand them down to create their desired action. Just like Lingenfelter didn't build the Corvette they tweeked it to suit their clients wants or needs.
(http://i969.photobucket.com/albums/ae171/pikeark/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/20141108_105651_zpsi8ys8xf6.jpg) (http://s969.photobucket.com/user/pikeark/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/20141108_105651_zpsi8ys8xf6.jpg.html)
-
Bricker;) case closed!
-
Those are sweet looking blanks stinky. If you dont mind me asking how much are each blank. Roughly?
-
In case some were wandering about the split grip on the spinning reel handle it's actually a jig removal tool.
(http://i969.photobucket.com/albums/ae171/pikeark/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/20141222_232935_zpsw0axocqy.jpg) (http://s969.photobucket.com/user/pikeark/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/20141222_232935_zpsw0axocqy.jpg.html)
-
i fish Tuned Up Custom Rods and they are by far better than any other rod i ever bought.
-
Nice rods, glad your happy with them.
-
I'm confused.............. ..is this ice fishing or fly fishing forum?
What, not even a mention of the "Green Hornet" either! ;D
-
:o Stinky, what the heck took you so long to make that post?!! Like Missoula said case closed!.... Jealous much? DANG I am... @) :tipup:
-
Interesting topic....
I have built several ice rods this year for friends and enjoy it...I guess that would make it a hobby! I could really care less what anybody thinks about which is better. I do know I like my customs and haven't had any complaints from my friends, might be cause I'm only charging them for materials:). I know the quality of my finished product is excellent. Heck I custom taper the blank to whatever somebody wants. There are all kinds of custom products that demand a higher price regardless of the level of personal touch used....I'm guessing everybody has a custom something they have bought over a mass produced item.
Ryno
-
Love my custom rods. I even bought a custom arm for my LX7, why? Cause I think it looks cool, does it catch me more fish? Nope. Hell I can't even fathom the amount of money I literally pissed away at the bars over my 16 year drinking career. It was nothing to spend $300 boozing at the bars on a weekend. Now I've traded that addiction for ice fishing. So to me spending $89 dollars on a nice rod is nothing, at least I have something to show for it. It baffles my why anyone other then my wife gives a crap how I or other people spend there money. I have no problem putting money in to the pockets of small business. Yes there blanks are probably made in china but that's not there fault, it's hard to buy anything made in America anymore and that's sad. Can you even buy a reel made in America?
-
:o Stinky, what the heck took you so long to make that post?!! Like Missoula said case closed!.... Jealous much? DANG I am... @) :tipup:
Some good posts over the topic just showing the difference between rod parts bought and assembled vs actual tricked out custom. Some anglers think that it's all just parts bought off Mudhole then assembled. I call those rod kits not customs. The possibilities are endless and at the end of the day it's all about technique and knowledge. Here's a pic of some handle components that is made. There's also a Skull palm rod a person wanted and notice the chin of the skull is used as part of the reel seat.
(http://i969.photobucket.com/albums/ae171/pikeark/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/Screenshot_2014-12-23-08-37-24_zpsfbvfyykr.png) (http://s969.photobucket.com/user/pikeark/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/Screenshot_2014-12-23-08-37-24_zpsfbvfyykr.png.html)
(http://i969.photobucket.com/albums/ae171/pikeark/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/20141216_150029_zpsqcyqy9uk.jpg) (http://s969.photobucket.com/user/pikeark/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-06/20141216_150029_zpsqcyqy9uk.jpg.html)
-
Thanks everyone for an interesting read , it's nice that there are choices we can make
-
All that really matters is if the rod is the correct design for the type of fishing being done. Lure, species, type of line, depth, personal preference, etc. play a huge role in the type of rod needed. A custom rod will not catch more fish if it is not the right tool for the job. Jigging blades I need a fast, stiff rod with the backbone to drive those hooks in and keep them there. I find plenty of this type in the open market.
I must say Im hard on equipment, and if I bust a $30 rod, I can simply go get another one.
-
Different strokes for different folks all that matters is that the rod handles and performs to your liking. For some it is off thr shelf and for others it is a custom rod. Bottom line is that everyone has their own preferences. This subject is starting to make my head :roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:
-
If it's American made I'll spend the money
-
I make a lot of my own fishing tackle.
Jigs off all sizes and styles, Quickstrike rigs, Spinners etc.
I just got a wire former for Christmas so I can make my own Mepps and Vibrax type spinners.
Are they custom handcrafted lures and jigs? That is a big part of the question.
Do I cut out my own blades from sheet brass? No I do not. I buy factory stamped blades.
Do I make my own Hooks? No I buy those as well.
I turn scrap lead into jigs but I do not make my own lead molds. Though I have helped design some of them and I have a lot of CNC machined molds.
I even have jig designs nobody else in the world has that were custom cut for me out of aluminum.
But I fill them with factory made hooks and components. Pour in some molten scrap lead and finish them with factory made paints an eyes.
Does that mean I cannot call them handcrafted customs?
We all use some premade parts when we make things.
Even a guy who assembles a rod kit from Mudhole or Janns netcraft still has some input into how the rod is made where the eyelets are placed and what size they are etc. etc.
If you are going to say the guy who assembles a rod from stock parts is not making a true custom then he could also say the same for you if you did not make 100% of all your components.
Your Skull rod looks interesting(I'm personally not into the skull theme) but in reality you just put a cast resin skull on the handle of a rod, you did not hand make the blank or the eyelets did you? So you assembled a blank and eyelets from the store,used epoxies from the store,used a store bought thread etc. then added a cast resin(using resins and silicons that somebody like Alumilite made) skull to the handle?
Kinda like gluing a foam fish to the handle of a rod kit you assembled then calling it a custom design.
IMHO if you made a rod yourself then it is custom.
-
I don't make the rods I just fish. Skull was first crafted then a mold was made then replicas made. In your example of making lures are you ordering it in as a kit like a model where all the parts come in one box and just replicating the picture on the outside in that case your just an assembler having fun putting a lure together replicating what someone else has already designed and put in a box to be sold as a kit. If your taking the kit but changing the design and puting your own personal touches on it thereby changing the design of it then it becomes custom. Sticking to the original design and just building it for what the designer originally intended it to be without any changes would be just an assembly at that point. Let's say Smith and Wesson offered a gun kit of the M&P15 I put it together. I assembled the gun and had fun doing it? Is that a custom? No its just an assembly. If I order in the parts myself from different manufacturers tricking it all out to the max then at that point it becomes custom. Your bending wires making your own version of spinner baits and other lures using parts from all over sounds pretty custom to me.
-
Stinkbaits I'll try and answer your questions.
For my jigs I have a lot of different molds. But many are stock Do-It molds anybody can buy. I melt the lead add the components to the mold and cast the jigs. Then I clean them up and paint them. But the stuff is available for anybody to buy and duplicate what I make right from Do-It ,Jann's netcraft,or Barlows tackle etc..
I do have some molds I had designed and CNC machined just for me. Nobody else in the world has the mold so I do consider it a custom jig.
But are jigs from a stock do-it mold custom? I paint them how ever you want and can use different hooks if the mold allows. But so can anybody else.
On my spinners they are not kits. I buy the wire and bend it on my wire former. The components are separate and are not a kit though kits are available.
But I don't make most of the parts I buy them then assemble them. I will be making and painting some lead lure bodies for some of these though.
So while it isn't exactly a kit I will be buying most of the components that are made somewhere else and I just assemble them just as if it were a kit.
Sometimes I will be replicating a store bought lure that has proven to work in the past even if there isn't a specific kit for that lure.
Does it matter if I buy a kit or if I buy the exact same components separately and then assemble them?
Seems to me you are making that distinction yet others feel differently.
What if I add a second bead that the original Mepps spinner does not have does that make it custom or just an extra bead on a spinner?
-
In My book I'd say the molds you buy replicate a product possibly but you change the consistency of the plastics making them softer or harder to suit your needs. You also paint your own colors or possibly offering anglers to ask you for a certain color and you make it for them? Crank baits for instance. I have a buddy that does quite well buying big o crank baits putting custom paint jobs on them and some Gamakatsu hooks and they crush bass with them. A pair of mustang cars both identical except one is factory stock paint job and the second custom painted with a unique color blend with added flaming horse on the sides. I'd call that still a Mustang with a custom paint job. If they sent me the factory mustang in all the same parts they use and I wanted to have my mechanic to build it himself I'd say that's just a stock mustang that my mechanic built. What custom to me is about people wanting to create knew ideas or expand on those that already exist. People approach them with their ideas or needs than the custom guys can create it or willing to try. Approaching a big company asking them to expand on your idea or build something new you had better be part of their R&D team or its not going to be affordable and they wouldn't even give you the time of day unless your KVD, Genz or some of the other legends. I'm glad there's guys like yourself doing your own thing or taking already made products to different levels even of it is just adding a bead. Adding that one bead with a certain color can make a huge difference at times. At least it does with Steel Head in the St Joe! L
-
Back to the "Custom vs. China" debate and the "Merican Made" comment... this is a global economy which leads me to question which "Merican Made" truck Hawkeye drives and how many Mexican parts it contains. At one point in time my driveway contained a Ford Mustang, Chrysler Town and Country, Chevy Silverado and a Honda Odyssey. Which one was made in the US? The Honda. The rest were made in Canada. Which one had the most American made parts? The Honda. I sense rod envy and a confused Hawkeye.
-
Good point ranger. Personally I'm thankful for whatever companies choose America to assemble the finished product in. My grandparents both were able to graduate high school and go right into the workforce without the college debt. Nice to graduate and have choices like they did back then. At least good paying choices.
-
It seems to me that the general consensus is that most of the equipment we use is imported from a foreign country and mostly from China. But the thread wasn't about China made vs. American made it was about China vs. custom. And in this topic I think custom means assembled in America by an American craftsman that is likely an experienced ice fisherman that has the passion to create something even if the raw materials come from another country. I have fished with the over-the-counter equipment my entire life. Only recently have I started to acquire some custom equipment. A lot of what everyone says is true in some form or another. If it works for you and you accomplish what you set out to do on the ice that's great. Sure I can catch fish with a China rod the same as I can with a custom Ryno Rod, but I think it's pretty neat to say that I caught my limit of fish with a rod custom built by my best friend Ryno. For me there are differences both big and small that can be made in the design of a custom assembled rod to tweak the equipment to better fit my fishing style. And at the end of the day if ice fishing and the manner in which you catch fish makes you feel happy, then you truly are enjoying your life. There is no greater feeling than a warm heart on some cold water!!! Peace.
-
This thread has turned into a lesson in semantics. :roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:
-
I have been making my own rods for open water and ice for a couple years now. I started so I could get the quality rods for my boat I needed to match lures without spending so much money. I have noticed the biggest difference when it comes to the backbone of the rod. A mass produced rod will just have the guides wrapped on at a certain spacing. A custom builder will find the true spine of the rod which gives it the most strength while fighting a fish. If you have ever had a pole break there is a good chance it was assembled off the side of the spine. When it come to ice rods I have been able to make rods that have a tip soft enough to feel the slightest hit yet have the back to jack a pike and never worry about it failing. More than anything I enjoy doing it. I have made some for friends and never for more than cost. I would rather catch 1 gill on something I made and tell no one but my wife than catch 50 dinks on a factory rod and tell everyone how good I am. Chinese or American we all need tools for our hobby and the important thing is that we enjoy every minute we have doing it.
-
Some people stay with the flock[china] and others don't [custom]
-
How about custom born out of necessity? With five kids, I have had no shortage of broken soft water rods.
A custom handle spun on the lathe in whatever wood I choose and my choice of length and stiffness based on what I want vs. what the boys broke the previous summer. With some care and a sharp exacto knife even the eyes are adjustable!
I may be lacking sensitivity compared to some, but rare is the day I don't bring home at least dinner.
Blanks by berkley, shimano, eagle claw, shakespear, etc..
And the best part- every single rod is free except for the reels. I have enough broken rods left to keep my kids fishing well into their 30's and have enough ice rods for our entire family to fish.
These three are my go to choice for perch and panfish. a little worn after nearly ten years, but reliable as hell!
(http://i416.photobucket.com/albums/pp247/boatdiver07/20141226_181213_zpsab7ac716.jpg)
-
well said stinkybait. I'm a firm believer I getting custom rods. started out with cheap zebco poles and reels to last bought St Croix granted not custom but will be custom open water rods. Just bought 2 Gaffight rods and are just nothing like big store rods. Will be getting a Bricker micro liner next year missed the boat getting one this year I think. I want to start learning how to build rod as of now doing some ice bugs.
-
Back to the "Custom vs. China" debate and the "Merican Made" comment... this is a global economy which leads me to question which "Merican Made" truck Hawkeye drives and how many Mexican parts it contains. At one point in time my driveway contained a Ford Mustang, Chrysler Town and Country, Chevy Silverado and a Honda Odyssey. Which one was made in the US? The Honda. The rest were made in Canada. Which one had the most American made parts? The Honda. I sense rod envy and a confused Hawkeye.
My SUV was built in Germany, 100% from the ground up...I can actually pop the hood and see the name of the one man who built the engine, in fact (that's custom). All except the casting, I suppose, which is still done on-site. And there's not much rod envy, as I can probably trade that truck for two or three of your "custom" companies. This isn't a money thing; but, I get how you'd take it there...follows trend with you guys and your posts.
You're still seemingly missing the point, although the guy below your thread gets it...it's not us vs. them on where it's made. This is about the elitist attitude that a company building overseas, versus a company buying every part overseas and gluing them together here, is somehow inferior. When in fact, to counteract Stinky's point, I'm fairly certain those bigger companies provide hundreds, if not thousands more in the way of employment.
Let's just take those big guys building ice overseas: St. Croix (save that high end series), 13 Fishing, Clam, Frabil...and how many employees do you think those four have, or lives they touch in shipping to big box and every retailer, than the "custom" creators of the most magnificent rods on the planet? Not to mention, I would imagine any one of those companies sells in one series, maybe one sku, what a "custom" company does in an entire season. Talk about economy boosters.
...you're basically insulting 98% of the ice fishing population with the custom glued in the US is king crap. Nothing wrong with being the 2% I suppose, must be nice up there on your perch. Just be sure to not poop on every average Joe on your ascension into ice fishing glory.
-
This will be entertaining.....
-
My SUV was built in Germany, 100% from the ground up...I can actually pop the hood and see the name of the one man who built the engine, in fact (that's custom). All except the casting, I suppose, which is still done on-site. And there's not much rod envy, as I can probably trade that truck for two or three of your "custom" companies. This isn't a money thing; but, I get how you'd take it there...follows trend with you guys and your posts.
You're still seemingly missing the point, although the guy below your thread gets it...it's not us vs. them on where it's made. This is about the elitist attitude that a company building overseas, versus a company buying every part overseas and gluing them together here, is somehow inferior. When in fact, to counteract Stinky's point, I'm fairly certain those bigger companies provide hundreds, if not thousands more in the way of employment.
Let's just take those big guys building ice overseas: St. Croix (save that high end series), 13 Fishing, Clam, Frabil...and how many employees do you think those four have, or lives they touch in shipping to big box and every retailer, than the "custom" creators of the most magnificent rods on the planet? Not to mention, I would imagine any one of those companies sells in one series, maybe one sku, what a "custom" company does in an entire season. Talk about economy boosters.
...you're basically insulting 98% of the ice fishing population with the custom glued in the US is king crap. Nothing wrong with being the 2% I suppose, must be nice up there on your perch. Just be sure to not poop on every average Joe on your ascension into ice fishing glory.
Pretty sure way more than 98% of the ice fishing population really could care less. Global economics huh? Are you serious? Ice fisherman arguing economics... Unbelievable. I wasn't expecting humor, but thats downright laughable.
-
Pretty sure way more than 98% of the ice fishing population really could care less. Global economics huh? Are you serious? Ice fisherman arguing economics... Unbelievable. I wasn't expecting humor, but thats downright laughable.
I'm confused...
Are you saying 98% of the ice fishing population are too dumb for global economics? That the two guys who started the topic on grandmas graduating and getting jobs or buying Hondas built in America shouldn't have done so? Or that you're just incapable of stringing together coherent sentences in anything more than texting on your phone form to participate in said discussion?
I'm with Mizzoulah, I thought this would be entertaining. But, it seems when you put the boys in their place, there's not much left to say...
Let me do my best G. Dub
(http://cdn.historycommons.org/images/events/b027_bush_mission_accomplished_2050081722-7750.jpg)
-
Interesting thread. I have several custom fishing poles made by various local builders, mainly steelhead rods. The thought of shelling out even a hundred dollars for an ice fishing pole makes me gag a little. However, last I checked we all lived in free countries where a guy can spend his loot on whatever he likes, so even though I'd never spend a nickel on a custom ice fishing pole, I guess anyone else is free to do so!
-
Just my two cents.... but what's the big difference? I think you catch more fish by being a better skilled fisherman, not by the amount you spend on your toys. I know guys who go out with nothing more than a stick with a line and catch fish all day. Now don't get me wrong, having nice gear helps, but if you think it's going to make you a better fisherman, you're wrong.
Tight lines everyone.