How to Make Custom Wood Fishing Rod Handles – Step by Step Guide


Sharing is Caring


If you’re looking to elevate your fishing game, one great way to do so is by customizing your fishing rod handle. Not only will a custom handle add a personal touch to your equipment, but it can also improve your grip and make casting easier. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to create a custom wood handle for your fishing rod.

Before getting started, you’ll need to select the right wood for your handle. The type of wood you choose will determine the look and feel of your handle, so it’s important to choose carefully. Then, you’ll need to prepare your wood for turning by cutting it to size and drilling a hole for the fishing rod.

Once your wood is ready, it’s time to turn it on a lathe. This can be a tricky process, but with some patience and practice, you’ll be able to shape your handle to your desired specifications. From there, you’ll need to sand and finish your handle to give it a smooth, polished look. Finally, we’ll show you how to attach your custom handle to your fishing rod and maintain it for long-term use.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to create a one-of-a-kind custom wood fishing rod handle that will make your time on the water more enjoyable. So let’s dive in and get started!

Selecting the Right Wood for Your Handle

Choosing the right wood for your custom fishing rod handle is crucial. You want a wood that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and able to withstand the elements. Common woods used for fishing rod handles include maple, walnut, rosewood, and bamboo. Each wood has its unique properties that can enhance the grip, sensitivity, and overall performance of the handle.

When selecting your wood, consider the grain pattern, density, and weight. A straight and even grain pattern will make for a smoother handle while a dense wood like rosewood will provide excellent vibration transmission. The weight of the wood can also affect the balance of the rod, so make sure to choose a wood that complements your fishing style.

Another important factor to consider is the source of the wood. Make sure the wood you use is sustainably sourced and legal to obtain. You can find information on legal and sustainable sources through organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council.

Ultimately, choosing the right wood for your handle is a personal preference, and experimenting with different woods can help you find the perfect match for your needs.

Consider the Characteristics of the Wood

Before purchasing a piece of wood for your project, it’s essential to evaluate its characteristics. The type of wood and its properties can impact the outcome of your project, so it’s essential to know what you’re working with. One important characteristic to consider is density. Dense woods such as maple, oak, and hickory are great for furniture or flooring projects because of their strength and durability. However, if you’re building something that requires a lighter weight, you may want to consider a softer wood like pine or cedar.

Moisture content is another critical characteristic to consider when purchasing wood. The moisture content will impact the weight, strength, and stability of the wood. Wood that has too much moisture can lead to warping or cracking, while wood with too little moisture can become brittle and weak. It’s best to purchase wood with a moisture content between 6-8% for indoor projects and 12-14% for outdoor projects.

Color is another characteristic to consider when choosing wood for your project. Each type of wood has its unique color and grain pattern, which can affect the overall aesthetic of your project. For example, mahogany has a rich reddish-brown color, while cherry has a warm, reddish-brown color with a distinctive grain pattern. When choosing the color of your wood, consider how it will look in your space and how it will complement your existing dรฉcor.

Texture is another characteristic to consider when selecting wood. Wood can have a smooth, rough, or even textured surface, which can impact the overall look and feel of your project. For example, a smooth surface is ideal for furniture or flooring projects, while a rough surface can be ideal for rustic or outdoor projects. Consider the texture of your wood and how it will work with the overall design of your project.

Choose the Wood Species That Suits Your Needs

  1. If you’re looking for durability, then hardwood is the way to go. Hardwoods like oak and maple are known for their strength and ability to withstand daily wear and tear. Additionally, they have a natural resistance to moisture and pests, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas of the home.

  2. For a warm and inviting look, consider cherry or walnut. These hardwoods have a rich, deep color that adds warmth and sophistication to any room. While they may be softer than oak or maple, they are still durable enough to last for years to come. Keep in mind that they may darken over time, so be prepared for some color variation.

  3. Bamboo is a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly option. It’s a renewable resource that grows quickly and can be harvested without damaging the environment. It’s also incredibly durable and can withstand high levels of foot traffic. Bamboo flooring comes in a variety of colors and styles, making it a versatile choice for any home.

  4. If you’re on a budget, then pine may be the way to go. It’s a softwood that’s readily available and affordable, making it a popular choice for many homeowners. Keep in mind that it’s not as durable as hardwoods and may dent or scratch more easily. However, it can still add a rustic charm to any room in the house.

No matter which wood species you choose, make sure it suits your needs and fits your personal style. Take the time to research the different options available to you, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from a professional. With the right wood species and proper installation, your new flooring can be a beautiful and long-lasting addition to your home.

Preparing Your Wood for Turning

Before you begin turning your wood, it’s important to properly prepare it for the task at hand. Moisture, grain orientation, and defects in the wood can all impact the quality of your finished product. Here are some tips to help you prepare your wood:

First, make sure your wood is properly seasoned. This means allowing it to dry to a moisture content of around 10% to 12%. If the wood is too wet, it can warp or crack during the turning process. On the other hand, if it’s too dry, it can become brittle and difficult to work with.

Next, pay attention to the grain orientation. You want to make sure the grain runs parallel to the length of your turning blank. This will help prevent tearout and other issues as you turn your wood. Look for any knots or irregularities in the grain that may cause problems, and mark them accordingly.

When selecting your wood, keep an eye out for any defects such as cracks, checks, or insect damage. These can weaken the wood and make it more difficult to turn. If you do encounter defects, consider cutting them out or using them to your advantage in your design.

Finally, consider the shape and size of your turning blank. Make sure it’s the appropriate size for your lathe, and consider the shape you want to achieve. Some shapes may require a larger blank, while others may work better with a smaller one. Planning ahead can help you avoid any issues as you begin your turning project.

Cut Your Wood to Size

Before you start turning, you’ll need to cut your wood to size. Accuracy is key here, so take your time and make sure your measurements are correct. If you’re using a bandsaw or table saw, be sure to use the appropriate blade for the type of wood you’re cutting.

Wear protective gear while cutting your wood. This includes safety glasses, earplugs, and a dust mask to protect yourself from sawdust and debris. Be sure to keep your hands and fingers away from the blade at all times.

When cutting your wood to size, consider the shape and size of the piece you want to create. If you’re turning a bowl, for example, you’ll need to start with a larger piece of wood than you would for a spindle. Take the time to plan out your cuts and mark your wood to ensure you get the shape and size you want.

Once you’ve cut your wood to size, use a roughing gouge to create a cylinder shape. This will make it easier to start turning and help you get the right proportions for your piece.

Turning Your Handle on a Lathe

Lathe safety is the top priority when turning your handle. Before beginning, make sure you wear safety glasses and keep your hair and loose clothing tied back. Check your lathe’s manual for specific safety guidelines.

Choose the right turning tools for your project. A roughing gouge, spindle gouge, parting tool, and skew chisel are common tools used for turning handles. Be sure to sharpen them before use to prevent tearout.

Secure your wood blank in the lathe using a spur drive or live center. Use a roughing gouge to turn the blank to a rough cylinder shape. Once you have the rough shape, use a spindle gouge to refine the shape of the handle.

Use a parting tool to create a shoulder at each end of the handle. This will allow you to fit the handle onto your project. Then, use a skew chisel to create details on the handle, such as beads or coves. Sand the handle with progressively finer grits until it’s smooth.

Finish your handle with your desired finish, such as oil or wax. Let the finish dry before attaching the handle to your project.

Mounting Your Wood on the Lathe

Mounting your wood on the lathe is an essential step in turning your handle. Before you start, ensure that the lathe is clean and free of debris. Here are some tips to help you mount your wood correctly:

  1. Center Your Wood: Ensure that your wood is centered on the lathe to avoid imbalances that could cause accidents or result in poor performance.
  2. Secure Your Wood: Once your wood is centered, secure it onto the lathe with a chuck. Tighten the chuck firmly but not too tight that it damages the wood.
  3. Check for Stability: After securing your wood, check for stability by turning the lathe on low speed to ensure that the wood does not wobble or vibrate excessively.

Remember to always use the correct personal protective equipment, including goggles and a dust mask, when using a lathe. Following these steps will ensure that your wood is safely and properly mounted on the lathe, setting you up for a successful turning experience.

Sanding and Finishing Your Handle

Once you have turned your handle, it’s time to sand it down to give it a smooth finish. Begin with a coarse grit sandpaper, around 80 grit, and gradually work your way up to a finer grit, around 220 grit. This will help to remove any tool marks and leave your handle with a smooth surface.

After sanding, you can apply a finish to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. A popular finish for turning projects is Danish oil, which is easy to apply and dries quickly. You can also use shellac or wax as a finish, depending on your preferences.

Apply the finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a clean cloth or brush to spread it evenly over the handle. Allow the finish to dry completely before applying another coat, if desired.

Once you have finished applying the final coat of finish, allow the handle to dry for at least 24 hours before using it. This will give the finish time to cure and harden, ensuring a durable and long-lasting finish for your handle.

Finally, use a soft cloth to buff the handle and give it a final shine. Your handle is now complete and ready to be used!

Sanding Your Handle to a Smooth Finish

Step 1: Start with a coarse grit sandpaper, around 80-120 grit, to remove any rough spots or tool marks on the wood.

Step 2: Move on to a medium grit sandpaper, around 150-220 grit, to smooth out the wood and refine the shape of the handle.

Step 3: Use a fine grit sandpaper, around 320-400 grit, for the final sanding pass to achieve a smooth finish.

Step 4: If desired, use a sanding sealer to seal the wood before applying a finish such as oil or wax.

Applying a Protective Finish

Clean the Handle: Before applying any finish, make sure the handle is clean and free of any dust or debris. Wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth.

Choose a Finish: There are many finishes you can use to protect and enhance the look of your handle. Some popular options include varnish, shellac, and tung oil. Choose a finish that fits your needs and preferences.

Apply the Finish: Apply the finish to the handle using a clean brush or cloth, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to apply an even coat, and allow it to dry completely before applying additional coats.

Sand Between Coats: If you’re applying multiple coats, sand the handle lightly between each coat with fine-grit sandpaper. This will help smooth out any bumps or bubbles and ensure a smooth, even finish.

Buff the Handle: After the final coat has dried, buff the handle lightly with a clean, dry cloth to bring out the shine of the finish.

Attaching Your Handle to the Fishing Rod

Step 1: Choose the appropriate size and style of fishing reel seat for your rod handle. The reel seat should fit comfortably and securely onto the handle.

Step 2: Slide the reel seat onto the handle and secure it in place with a small amount of epoxy glue. Allow the glue to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Attach the butt cap to the end of the handle using epoxy glue. The butt cap helps to protect the end of the handle and gives it a finished appearance.

Step 4: Insert the rod blank into the reel seat and tighten the locking mechanism to secure it in place. The reel seat should hold the rod blank firmly without damaging it.

Step 5: Attach the fishing reel to the reel seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that the reel is securely attached and balanced with the rod handle.

Measuring and Cutting the Reel Seat

Step 1: Begin by measuring the diameter of your reel seat. This will determine the size of the hole you need to drill in your handle.

Step 2: Use a drill bit that is slightly larger than the diameter of the reel seat to drill a hole in the bottom of your handle. Be sure to drill the hole straight and centered.

Step 3: Measure and cut a piece of cork or other material to fit the diameter of the reel seat. This will serve as a spacer between the reel seat and the handle.

Step 4: Glue the spacer into the hole in the handle, making sure it is centered and flush with the bottom of the handle.

Gluing the Handle to the Reel Seat

Clean the Surfaces: Before gluing the handle to the reel seat, ensure that both surfaces are clean and free of debris. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe them down thoroughly.

Apply the Glue: Use a high-strength epoxy glue to attach the handle to the reel seat. Apply a small amount of glue to the base of the handle and the top of the reel seat. Use a toothpick to spread the glue evenly.

Align the Parts: Carefully align the handle and reel seat, making sure that the reel seat is centered on the handle. Hold the parts together firmly for a few minutes to ensure a strong bond.

Let the Glue Dry: Allow the glue to dry for at least 24 hours before using the fishing rod. Do not apply any pressure to the handle during this time to avoid disrupting the bond.

Maintaining Your Custom Wood Handle

Clean your handle regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris that accumulates on the surface of the handle. Avoid using water or other cleaning solutions, as these can damage the wood.

Oil your handle: To keep your handle looking new, apply a small amount of wood oil to the surface of the wood every few months. This will help protect the wood and keep it from drying out.

Avoid extreme temperatures: Wood can expand or contract in extreme heat or cold, which can cause cracks or damage to your handle. Store your rod in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or sources of heat.

Inspect your handle regularly: Check your handle for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks, splits, or discoloration. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Reapply finish as needed: Over time, the protective finish on your handle may wear off. To restore the finish, lightly sand the surface of the handle and apply a new coat of protective finish.

Cleaning and Protecting Your Handle

After spending the time and effort to create a custom wood handle for your fishing rod, it’s important to take proper care of it to keep it in good condition.

Clean your handle regularly: Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt or debris from the handle. Avoid using water or soap, as they can damage the wood.

Apply a protective coating: To protect your handle from moisture and UV rays, apply a coating of a high-quality wood sealer or finish. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.

Avoid extreme temperatures: Keep your custom handle away from extreme heat or cold, as it can cause the wood to expand or contract, leading to cracks or other damage.

Store your rod properly: When not in use, store your rod in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaning it against walls or other surfaces that may scratch or damage the handle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are needed to make custom wood fishing rod handles?

Some of the materials you will need to make a custom wood fishing rod handle include a lathe, wood blanks, sandpaper, finish, and glue. The specific types of wood and finish will depend on your personal preferences and the type of fishing you will be doing.

What are the steps for mounting the wood on the lathe?

The first step in mounting the wood on the lathe is to select the appropriate lathe chuck and secure it to the lathe. Then, you will need to drill a hole in the center of the wood blank and insert a live center into the tailstock of the lathe. Finally, you can attach the wood blank to the lathe chuck and begin turning.

How do you sand and finish a custom wood fishing rod handle?

To sand a custom wood fishing rod handle, you will need to use a variety of sandpaper grits, starting with coarse and progressing to finer grits. Once the handle is sanded to your desired smoothness, you can apply a finish of your choice, such as varnish or oil. Apply the finish evenly and allow it to dry before applying additional coats as needed.

How do you attach a custom wood handle to a fishing rod?

The first step in attaching a custom wood handle to a fishing rod is to measure and cut the reel seat to fit the handle. Then, you can glue the handle to the reel seat using an appropriate adhesive. It is important to allow the glue to dry completely before using the fishing rod.

How can you maintain a custom wood fishing rod handle?

To maintain a custom wood fishing rod handle, it is important to clean it regularly and protect it from moisture and damage. You can clean the handle with a damp cloth and mild soap, being careful not to get water in any of the crevices. To protect the handle, you can apply a coat of wax or oil regularly and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Craving More Content?

Anglers Advantage Guide Service