Gear Review: CRB Custom Rods

   

With all the options out there, finding the right fishing rod can be a daunting task. Of course, there is no perfect rod for every situation. However, a custom built rod can be pretty darn close.

Building a fishing rod isn't as difficult as you may think. Oh sure, there is some special equipment that is needed, but actually building the rod is very straight forward. Mud Hole makes this even easier by selling complete rod kits with instructions, to guide you through the process. Alas, this post isn't an instructional "How-To," instead it's a review about the CRB Value Spinning/Casting rod kits sold by Mud Hole.

These kits come complete with rod blank, cork grips, deluxe Graphite reel seats and Halide guides with tip top. They also come in an array of colors such as, Blue, Green Orange, Pink, Lime, Yellow, Purple and of course Black. The kit does not include thread, epoxy, thread finish or any of the tools or equipment to build the rod. Mud Hole does sell starter kits that are reasonably priced though, that will get you going quickly and easily.

So lets start with the most important part of any rod, the blank. The CRB Value kits, feature a high quality blank constructed of IM6 Graphite (44 million modules) that guarantee a high-strength low-weight rod. These blanks are all 1-piece construction. The reel seat is also made from high quality Graphite, to ensure many years of abuse. The cork handles are of good quality, and come pre-shaped and ready to install. Finally, the guides are made of Halide, which is the highest grade of aluminum oxide you can get.

These kits come in Lite action 5'6", 6' and 7' lengths, Medium action 6', 6'6", and 7' or Heavy action in 7'. The overall feel of these rods is fantastic. They are well balanced and very lite. If assembled properly they fish extremely well.  The 6'6" versions that I built, cast well and the action is incredible. Obviously, you can design these rods to whatever your taste, which is another great feature.  These rods easily stack up to rods that cost twice as much. I currently have several spinning and casting versions, and they all perform flawlessly. The guides hold up well to braided line too. I currently own a few St. Croix rods as well, but prefer these CRB rods. They actually feel better to use. Maybe that's just because I built them, but they have become my new favorite.

So, if you are looking to buy some high quality rods, and are willing to try your hand at custom building them, try the Value Rod kits from Mud Hole. You won't be disappointed.  The price won't break the bank either.

D.S

   www.mudhole.com