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Ferrules- Grit in your ferrules will cause excessive wear and result in a loose fit and eventually will necessitate their replacement. Lubricate the male end of your ferrule with paraffin and keep your ferrules clean. |
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Nicks- It is important to periodically check your rod for small nicks and scratches in the protective varnish; damaged varnish can allow water to penetrate and ruin the bamboo. |
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After Fishing- Bamboo rods will take minor sets after a day of casting and landing fish. Before putting your rod back in the tube wipe it dry and then gently bend the rod in the opposite direction of the set. Do not bend excessively. This will remove the set and keep your rod straight. |
Hyperextension-
Excessive bending of the rod into a U or J shape will destroy the integrity of the fibers and result is the rod taking a set and sometimes, depending on the severity, may result in breakage. Below is a picture of what not to do. Per Brandin took this photo of me landing a steelhead and almost destroying a 9' 6'' Powell of his. Don't do this.
Handling your rod-
Back when I first went to work for Per Brandin in El Cerrito I was shocked to see Mario Wojnicki throwing rods around like they were firewood. The truth is that bamboo is a tough material. Bamboo fly rods are made to be used in a tough environment and they are not fine china. Use them, care for them and enjoy them.
Storage-
Keep your rod in its tube in a cool and dry environment.