Thanks to Kevin's

[Reel Cowboy]

One thing I forgot was a rod builder, if I'm building a rod that is reel specific, I know I can make 1 phone call & get any measurements or specs I need. Stella, Van Stahl, Avets anything & get back to building.

[CairoTrout]

Off Topic.

[Reel Cowboy]

just saying thanks. I read the title of the thread & thought that's what it says.

[CairoTrout]

Thought that would get a rise. Just playing!

[WolfeMan]

Good Monday morning!

[bbb]

How many people have ever broken a rod due to manufacturer defect?

So is Heath saying he only replaces a defective rod for free?

Or does he just eat the possible cost of a charge from the rod company to make customers happy?

I'm not saying Kevin's is wrong with what they're doing, its their policy and they should be able to make their own rules. But do you seriously think they are sending those rods back and NOT trying to get them to go through as a warranty item, and then therefore making $15 off you?

[Reel Cowboy]

bbb,
I've seen quite a few broken rods & very few (if any) were due to defects. The most common is breaking due to impact. A jig head or sinker dangling will cause nicks that lead to failures. Riding to the boat ramp with them resting on the tail gate is another good way to break them. 30# braid, locked down drag will break an inshore rod.
If a rod doesn't break the first time it's stressed, it's abuse nothing more.
Ugly Sticks don't break that often to due to fiberglass. It's tough but heavy. Fishermen wanted high modulous composites that are super light & that comes at a cost.

[WolfeMan]

I dont think when mine broke it was "abuse" but I dont think it was exactly a defect either...

I was jig fishing in River X and as I was reeling the jig in the last dozen yards or so, a mack truck hit it and swam right under the canoe I was in and the rod broke between the first and second guides. I had 15 lb braid on and when the rod broke, I had the fish on for about 2 seconds longer and the 20lb flouro leader broke. The rod never came in contact with the side of the canoe, and it happened so fast I didnt have time to lean the rod around the stern of the canoe. The drag was probably too tight but I am typically very good at checking it to make sure it isnt locked down...basically, I can't conclude what the issue was. I figure that the fish may have been a big striped bass - I suppose it could have been a great big catfish, but it was swimming pretty dang fast...who knows.

All I know is Kevin's didnt ask any questions.

[snatch-n-reel]

Rod and the leader broke. I would say the drag was a little tight. Imo.

[WolfeMan]

Rod and the leader broke. I would say the drag was a little tight. Imo.

I'm sure you are right.

[silverking]

High sticking a graphite rod right next to the boat on a hot fish doesn't usually end up with a happy outcome.

Here's another vote for Kevin's. The guys there are knowledgeable and if they don't have it, they'll gladly get it on order. Close and convenient, too, with reasonable prices.

And while I haven't made the drive to South Georgia Outdoors, I certainly appreciate their support of this forum and the fishing club. Thanks guys. I'll make it up there one of these days.