glass rod

Question
I have a 81/2 ft. spin rod that over time (it's a 2 pc.)has developed a slight curve on the top half of the rod.Is it possible to straighten it out? It's old and custom wrapped but I like it's action. thankx

Answer
Hi Jim,

Yes.  The good news is that it is possible to straighten most fiberglass rods.  It is also possible to straighten bamboo rods.  Graphite rods do not normally take a "set" and these comments do not apply to those.

Typically, a fiberglass rod is straightened by bending the rod in exactly the opposite direction and applying gentle heat to the area of the bend or curve.  Very gentle heat.  Very gentle heat.  Are you getting this?  A hair dryer on its lowest setting is much better than a heat gun for this.

Stop and check the rod often (very often) to prevent damage to the fiberglass blank and to make sure you don't over-bend the thing in the opposite direction.  

The bad news...the curve will probably come back over time as you use the rod.  Given this, many people choose to use it as is rather than take the chance of weakening the blank or causing damage.

Thanks,  Joe