fishing pole help

[nath2k11]

i went down the canal today and came home to give the pole a clean and i noticed a crack by the lower end of the top section, the crack is about 20mm in length. the pole is made of graphite and i want to know if there is anyway of repairing it without weakening it anymore. pls help

[headless]

Hi

I did the same thing many years ago. At the time I could not afford a new section so I decided to have a go at repairing it myself. It worked and I even landed Carp to 12lb on it.

First of all I would check and see how much a new section is, you may be surprised how low the cost is, however if you want to have a go at repairing it, gently rubbed the poles outer coating down with some fine wet and dry, this is to give the repair something to key to, going 20mm or so past the crack/split. Then put a thin coating of rod varnish over the prepared area. Immediately wind around the pole some tread that is used for whipping rod rings, ensuring the the whipping goes beyond the crack/split by approx 20mm or so. The tread is wound tightly around the pole the same way as you would whip a new rod rig. Secure the end and apply a thin coating of rod varnish. When the varnish is dry gently rub down any fine threads/lumps of varnish and re-coat again. You may have to do several layers of varnish and rubbing down until you have a smooth finish.

It sounds complicated but is very simple, but it also depends on where the crack/split is. Also remember your pole will not be as strong as it was.

I hope the above helps...its worth ago.

Darrell

[nath2k11]

thanks for your help and i will have a go now knowing what to do :)