Rod handle repair

Question
While unloading from a recent fishing trip i leaned one of my rods against the boat. Our new puppy chewed much of the cork from the handle. It there a way i can replace the cork rings? Right now it is wrapped in electrical tape. thanks, George

Answer
George

The first thing you do is determine if the value of the rod is worth the repair. Replacing the cork can be done but it is messy and time consuming to do it right. The right way to do it would be to remove the guides, fore grip, reel seat and the butt grip. Then re wrap and glue on a new handle. The easy way would be to put the butt section on a lathe and make the rear grip cork straight then get a new rear grip and ream it out to fit and glue it on. In the world of rod repairs this is one of the most involved repairs there is. If you know of any custom rod builders near you ask one of them how much they would charge. Visit a tackle shop and ask if they know someone that can help.


Thomas F. Thornhill